What To Use For Front Shields ON Brush Hogs?

[wirlybird]

I have a few brush hogs which do not have the original shields on the front. To replace them can be a bit pricey for some.
I have purchased a roll of 1/8 inch thick solid neoprene (10ft X 12 inch) should be able to get 4 to 6 out of the roll depending on size. I'm going to try this out and see how it works out.

What do you use to make new shields from?

 

[BnRidge]

For the small brush cutter that I made here, I purchased the rubber belting from Swisher. It's fairly sturdy stuff, but over time I think it could be considered a consumable. A few branches have been launched through it and torn holes. Chains may be a better option.

 

[CobyRupert]

My shields on the front and back where some of the first things to get torn off my mower.
If I did replace them, I’d consider using cutting a horse stable mat.

 

[DGZRT]

I sell Industrial Belting . Do a Google search for belting distributors in your area and give them a call. A couple of good belts for shields are 2 ply 150# rubber x. Rubber cover 1/16” x 1/16” . This belt is about 3/16” thick but has plys in it to give it the strength you need . I’m sure if you explain your situation to and inside sales guy he can recommend something . Regular sheet rubber will rip and tear without the ply’s of fabric for strength. They should be able to cut it to any width you need . McMaster carr does carry it but kind of expensive from them item # 6000k1

 

[wirlybird]

I sell Industrial Belting . Do a Google search for belting distributors in your area and give them a call. A couple of good belts for shields are 2 ply 150# rubber x. Rubber cover 1/16” x 1/16” . This belt is about 3/16” thick but has plys in it to give it the strength you need . I’m sure if you explain your situation to and inside sales guy he can recommend something . Regular sheet rubber will rip and tear without the ply’s of fabric for strength. They should be able to cut it to any width you need . McMaster carr does carry it but kind of expensive from them item # 6000k1

Thanks, I'll check into this.
My main goal is really to reduce the dust blowing out the front of the mower.
One of my JD cutters blows out a huge amount from the right front and it all blows right upwards to the side of my face. It's the perfect storm!

 

[azbinder]

See if there are any sand and gravel pits in your area. If so, check with them and see if you can get some used conveyor belting. It would make a good shield and be fairly inexpensive.

 

[ArlyA]

I'd suggest sheet rubber (neoprene) with multi ply’s of fabric for strength and durability 3/16 or better yet 1/4 thick. Ply's are your freind!

 

[mwayne]

Thanks, I'll check into this.
My main goal is really to reduce the dust blowing out the front of the mower.
One of my JD cutters blows out a huge amount from the right front and it all blows right upwards to the side of my face. It's the perfect storm!

Based on personal experience, to me that is a symptom of the back end of your rotary cutter being lower than the front. You may want to try to adjust the angle of your cutter to see if that reduces the amount of material blowing on you.

 

[wirlybird]

Based on personal experience, to me that is a symptom of the back end of your rotary cutter being lower than the front. You may want to try to adjust the angle of your cutter to see if that reduces the amount of material blowing on you.

Back is about 2 inches higher. I generally run 1 to 2 inches higher in the back. I will check it though to make sure.
The blow out is at the very right-front corner of the cutter. It seems to mainly be blowing out dust and fine particles.
Another cutter I use doesn't do this but it is a different brand.

 

[Midniteoyl]

Agree with the conveyor belt suggestions. Regular neoprene is not nearly tough enough.