Rake ABI TR3 Rake - Multipurpose Implement - REVIEW (Version 1)

[Freep]

I have played around with the tools I have as you suggest, though I have not gotten quite so far with it (your comments are helpful here). You've confirmed my suspicions that the TR3 does not do anything new, just combines multiple functions into a single implement. I am viewing the TR3 more as an efficiency than a required implement. I think it save me time and hours on the tractor by requiring fewer passes, and also precludes the shallow (long) learning curve for implements such as box blade.

Don't get me wrong: I want to learn to use all these devices, but I don't want to wait until I learn to use them properly for my ground to be level. My kids need level ground to run around on now, not three years hence. And while I love using the tractor, I also want time to run around with those kids (while they still want to play with their dad).

From a purely economic perspective, using the individual instruments will likely place significant additional hours on my tractor. Assuming my time is worth something, and considering my relative lack of box blade skills and the very challenging and uneven ground, the TR3 seems like a good investment even at the high cost. (I am not considering the more expensive 'Command' version, but the 650lb 'Property' version.)

I assumed as much re: the box blade. Lacking sides, the TR3 seems like it would carry much less soil. Does the TR3 completely replace the LPGS, though?

I thought you had assembled a chain harrow with a boom pole contrived lift mechanism? Am I confusing something?

 

[jeff9366]

I thought you had assembled a chain harrow with a boom pole contrived lift mechanism?

The chain harrow and boom pole I assembled is used in my six mile distant neighbor's organic Blueberry field behind a Kubota BX. My neighbor remains happy with effectiveness of the concoction.

For my L3560 I would buy a heavier, wider, longer factory unit.
Wingfield 7' 2" - 9' 6" 3pt Standard - Wingfield American Harrow - Made in USA

Do not assume there is no learning curve with a TR3 Rake. There is. The learning curve would be longer for a light TR3 Rake. Weight in ground contact implements compensates for lack of experience to a certain extent.

I have no LPGS experience. I believe an LPGS would be at least ten times faster leveling a field than an arena weight TR3 Rake.

Disc Harrows are good field levelers if adjusted for your conditions and pulled at a brisk pace. However a Disc Harrow cannot give that perfectly groomed, smooth, ultimate appearance I want as an end product. That requires a rake, roller or chain harrow succeeding the Disc Harrow.

I don't want to wait until I learn to use them properly for my ground to be level. My kids need level ground to run around on now, not three years hence.

From a purely economic perspective, using the individual instruments will likely place significant additional hours on my tractor. Assuming my time is worth something, and considering my relative lack of box blade skills and the very challenging and uneven ground, the TR3 seems like a good investment. (I am not considering the more expensive 'Command' version, but the 650lb 'Property' version.)

The going rate for leveling and rolling hay fields in flat central Florida is $170 per acre. The pros at field leveling arrive with lasers and heavy equipment. They infrequently go over the ground more than once with each implement. Not "a-little-here-a-little-there" as I do. $170 per acre is cheaper than I could level a hay field with my implements.