Rotary Cutter 7' or 8' rotary cutter ?

PSDStu · Dec 10, 2008

I'm looking to purchase either a 7' or 8' cutter for my M5040. I have looked at the Woods BB84 and BB840 for the 7' models and the Woods DS96 and Bush Hog 3008 for the 8' models.

The cutter would only be used for pasture mowing of Bahia and some weeds.

I'd also need to be able to load the tractor and cutter on my gooseneck trailer. Trailer is 102" wide and could handle either size cutter.

Currently using a BB72 and from what I have read here lots a you say to skip the 7' cutter and go for the twin spindle 8' models.

If I went with the 7' models would having twin tail wheels help with the scalping issue I have read about with the 7' models?

For both models I would need to go with 3pt mounted version because of my need to be able to load the tractor and cutter on my trailer, and I'm not sure you could do that with a tow version of the cutters.

Just looking for thoughts and experience with using 7 and 8 foot cutters.

Thanks!

tractorsanmore · Dec 10, 2008

I have seen the model 3008 in person and it's a heavy duty mower 106 " wide overall and weight is close to 1700 lbs . IMO it's too much mower for the 5040 tractor or for my 4630 ford too !

Soundguy · Dec 10, 2008

I betcha a twin spindle 8' will feel better than a single spindle 7'.. plus it will be shorter, since it uses two 4' ( tip to tip ) blades..

soundguy

Farmwithjunk · Dec 10, 2008

PSDStu said:
I'm looking to purchase either a 7' or 8' cutter for my M5040. I have looked at the Woods BB84 and BB840 for the 7' models and the Woods DS96 and Bush Hog 3008 for the 8' models.

The cutter would only be used for pasture mowing of Bahia and some weeds.

I'd also need to be able to load the tractor and cutter on my gooseneck trailer. Trailer is 102" wide and could handle either size cutter.

Currently using a BB72 and from what I have read here lots a you say to skip the 7' cutter and go for the twin spindle 8' models.

If I went with the 7' models would having twin tail wheels help with the scalping issue I have read about with the 7' models?

For both models I would need to go with 3pt mounted version because of my need to be able to load the tractor and cutter on my trailer, and I'm not sure you could do that with a tow version of the cutters.

Just looking for thoughts and experience with using 7 and 8 foot cutters.

Thanks!

I owned a BB840 for 2 seasons (too long) and would have gladly GIVEN it to you. I was NEVER happy with it.

My pick is the Bush Hog 3008

HickoryNut · Dec 10, 2008

Dual wheels/shorter wheelbase reduces scalping and the dual spindles disperse clippings much better. You will need some weight on front with an 8', especially when trying to back off a trailer.

JDeerekid · Dec 11, 2008

I would go with the 8' model also. With the twin blades it will actually take less hp to run that the single 7' blade. If the grass gets heavy just take less of a bite.

MFRED · Dec 11, 2008

I'm pretty happy with my BB840, dual tail wheels. I've had it 2 seasons now. Pasture mowing & property line clearing. Mostly heavy brush around the property lines. Not to say I wouldn't buy the 8ft, but the next one I get will be a batwing for the pasture & keep this 7ft for the heavy stuff.

Soundguy · Dec 11, 2008

The right batwing and tractor combo should cut that heavy stuff too!

soundguy

hotchkiss · Dec 11, 2008

I evaluated this same issue earlier this year. FWJ steered me in the direction of the 3008 over a seven foot model and in the direction of a Bushhog rotary mower rather than a Woods.

During this time period, I owned and operated a few tractors, but mowed with a NH 90hp and a Kubota 56hp give or take.

I selected the 3008 and have NO doubt it was the right decision. It gives you a better cut than the Woods single spindle. The overall length of the 3008 is actually shorter than the seven foot models, therefore it is actually easier to handle. The weight of the mower is closer to your rear tires and being shorter it is easier to get in and out of places.

I have not run a M5040 and don't have any opinions as to whether it will handle either of the mowers you are considering. However, my Kubota and NH handled the 3008 better than a six foot Woods heavy duty mower. If your tractor will handle it, go with the 3008.