Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor?

   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #1  

slimcity9

Bronze Member
Joined
Jun 19, 2013
Messages
57
Location
Pennsylvania
Tractor
TYM 550
So DR recently came out with a PTO trimmer for less than $1000, and apparently it's very popular, with a five- to six-week wait. I'm interested, but the implement is spec'd for a Cat 1 hitch and mine is Cat 2.

I just got off the phone with a nice lady from DR. But maybe it's a case of men are from Mars and women are from Venus. Or else she doesn't know what she's talking about. She's trying to explain why I can't use this implement on my Cat 2 tractor. She quotes the back, outside wheel width spec as "must be equal to" instead of "maximum" of 80 inches. The latter is on their website. Evidently she thinks every Cat 1 tractor measures exactly 80 inches!??!! She says the little test tractor in their youtube video is 80 inches, which I find dubious, since my 55 HP TYM 550 tractor is only 72 inches. Then she starts telling me that the drive shafts are different, even though she reads from her sheet that it's a 1 3/8 inches, six-splined, quick-release shaft, which sounds pretty standard to me.

I could be the one who's misunderstanding. But it seems to me that the main legitimate reason for rejecting use of a Cat 2 tractor for warranty coverage is the greater horsepower. I suppose if I revved up to max speed before engaging the PTO I could do some damage, though I'd think you could do similar damage with a 45-horsepower tractor. Are there other reasons not to use this implement on a Cat 2 tractor--aside from losing a two year warranty, which I must admit is a pretty big deterrent. I know there are a couple heavier-duty fence line trimmers out there, but last I looked they were maybe three times the cost.

Opinions?
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor?
  • Thread Starter
#2  
To my surprise I actually had a supervisor call me back. Being overly suspicious, I wondered if getting my contact information was just so they could void the warranty if I bought one. In any case, this gentleman confirmed my belief that the original "tech" was "often wrong, never in doubt." After checking with his supervisor he said they will honor the warranty with my Cat 2 tractor provided there are no modifications to the implement--bushings to fit the bigger hitch are OK. Maybe I'll write a review eventually. But it's a while to wait before I get my hands on one.
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #3  
I gave a hard look at their self powered model a few years ago, but passed it up because I didn't want an extra motor to maintain. I did a search but I couldn't find the video she told you about, I would like to see it in action.

The question I have is how often does it need new string put on --- every 100 feet? 500? 1000? I like their idea but I think I will hold out for one with a metal blade.
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #4  
I have a DR Power grader that is a lovely lawn ornament. That's about as much good as I get out of it...
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #5  
I have a DR Power grader that is a lovely lawn ornament. That's about as much good as I get out of it...

I wonder what it would cost to ship to Branson, Mo.? I would like to have it.
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #7  
... Might persuade me to put the 3 point arms back on the BX (took them off when we got it).

Aaron Z

Why? You must have a backhoe with subframe or something similar?
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #8  
Why? You must have a backhoe with subframe or something similar?
Haven't needed the 3 point hitch (have them on the B7500 and L3830) and they get in the way when mowing tight spots.
The rear PTO on that tractor has never been used, cover has only been off once or twice to put some grease on the PTO shaft and prevent it from rusting.

Aaron Z
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor? #9  
The question I have is how often does it need new string put on --- every 100 feet? 500? 1000? I like their idea but I think I will hold out for one with a metal blade.

I have an ancient DR string trimer on wheels, and use their extra heavy string on it. I'd think the same as one would use on this. I find the string lasts several hours if you avoid getting it too close to something too big to cut. This has the circular guard on it to guide it around fence posts, so I think that would mostly take care of breaking the strings on hard objects, though I suppose one could hit a rock or something close to the ground.

Terry
 
   / Using DR PTO trimmer on Cat 2 Tractor?
  • Thread Starter
#10  
I gave a hard look at their self powered model a few years ago, but passed it up because I didn't want an extra motor to maintain. I did a search but I couldn't find the video she told you about, I would like to see it in action.

The question I have is how often does it need new string put on --- every 100 feet? 500? 1000? I like their idea but I think I will hold out for one with a metal blade.

Here's the video: NEW 3 Point Hitch Trimmer Mower - YouTube

It does take .175 line, in addition to the more common .155. I'd hope to get pretty far between string changes with the thicker line.

Be forewarned that "Free Shipping" means to a regional freight terminal. In my case, 100 miles of driving makes it not free at all. So add $60 if you want it at your property.
 
 
 
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