Bush Hog repair question

[rslee]

I have an old 6’ Bush Hog that has a cracked blade bar at the edge of the shaft hole for the gear box. It doesn’t have a stump jumper, and I hit the bar on a stump the last time I mowed. Is this something that can be safely welded to repair, or is that too risky? I know balancing will be an issue, but being right at the center hole should help. Otherwise, the part is $440 on an old cutter, so would be a total loss and would replace the bush hog.

 

[scootr]

Sure sounds like something that could be welded up. Can you post a picture?

 

[rslee]

I’ll try to get under it this evening. I’d sure hate to scrap it. It’s solid otherwise. Just put top and bottom seals on the gearbox, and it runs like a champ. It’s a Bush Hog 266, so old solid built machine.

 

[scootr]

I’ll try to get under it this evening. I’d sure hate to scrap it. It’s solid otherwise. Just put top and bottom seals on the gearbox, and it runs like a champ. It’s a Bush Hog 266, so old solid built machine.

Know what you mean about solid built - I'm working on one of these old BH units right now.

 

[rslee]

Here’s the crack.

 

[manac]

Please junk it. You wouldn’t want to throw a blade.
The stresses on that bar are huge at speed.

 

[beckmurph]

You should be able to replace that cross bar.
Check with a Bush Hog dealer.

 

[John0829]

As simple as that cross bar is go to a machine shop and have a new one made if it is not able to be sourced.

 

[Williy]

I would differently weld it. No cause to spend money on a new
one when what you have is very fixable! If a weld in not very
strong then they wouldn't make welders!

willy

 

[rslee]

No way I’m buying a replacement bar. They are $440 online from multiple suppliers. Not worth it. I think a competent welder could grind that crack open a little and fill it with a good bead. I’m not him. I’ll check around and get some opinions from a couple of shops. Otherwise, I’ll have to sell it for parts and buy another.