Bush Hog and Scraper -- What to Look For

Riddler · Sep 8, 2004

I am trying to arrange a purchase of a Kub L3430HST or L4330HST with some implements, including a rotary cutter and box scraper. The dealer is reputable, but I would prefer not to rely solely on him to select the right make/models for the implements to be included in the deal. I have no experience with either a cutter or scraper, so I'm stuck with predicting my preferences.

The scraper will be used mostly for maintaining a 1200' dirt/gravel driveway, and ripping out brush (when that method beats a loader bucket with a tooth bar). Serious grading work will be relatively rare. Is a "standard duty" manual box scaper the type I should specify? What about the size? Is 66" a good size or should I consider something wider or narrower? I have read posts recommending pin secured (not bolt secured) rippers because they make adjusting the rippers much easier, but beyond that, are there any other features I should be looking for? Finally, I don't know if the dealer can readily get implements from a supplier other than Gearmore, but what would be the lowest price I could expect to see in the quote for a decent quality box scraper?

For the cutter, I have been thinking that 6' is a good size (I have 8-10 acres to mow). Beyond that, are there features to seek or avoid? Is there a common term I should use to specify the desired quality point for the implement? Finally, like the box scraper, what is the minimum I might pay for a make/model of sufficient size and quality?

jrepp · Sep 8, 2004

Try to match the width of your implements to the width of your rear tires.

Soundguy · Sep 9, 2004

Like the other poster said.. get a box blade that is as wide or a tad wider than your rear tires. Same with a mower.. as long as the tractor has enough ponies to pull it. If that tractor is in the 30hp range or better.. 6' mower should be ok.

Pinned rippers are plain simpler to use.. less time. Also.. make sure your box blade has a bolt on replaceable cutting edge.. some real cheap ones don't.

You can pay anywhere from 200-650 for a box blade. Gennerally you get what you pay for. I've seen decent blades inthe 250$ range.

Mowers are similar, except you have more options. A 6' kk or howse is going to be in the 650$ range.. where a 6' jd/nh/kubota/bush hog will probably be in the 900$ - 1200$ range. Again.. the big names make a decent solid hd unit. They are also heavier.. which shouldn't be a problem for a new 30hp diesel tractor. If you had an old ford hundred series.. the weight migt be an issue.

I personally like the lower end models.. like KK / howse.. etc. I've mowed for nearly 4 years with my KK 5' now with -0- problems. I've also mowed with my 10' howse a few times now and love it.

Again.. though.. the more expensive ones are built with better looking welds.. and many times, they will have thicker deck steel.

You and your wallet can decide what's right for you.

Soundguy

Riddler · Sep 9, 2004

Soundguy, thanks for the helpful observations.

Can anyone suggest websites in addition to those "dealers" listed on TBN that offer good selections of implements at decent prices?

Kytractor · Sep 13, 2004

I have a Kubota L3830 and have about 1100 ft. of gravel drive way to up keep. I use the woods heavy duty 72 box scraper and it is excellent. We live on a pretty good size mountain and it never ceases to amaze me. I opened an old rd in the hills yesterday and created a new one. For the mower I have the woods BB72 and recommend it as well.

Benson · Sep 13, 2004

Riddler,

You may want to check the web site for Tractor Supply Company (http://www.mytscstore.com). That will give you some idea of prices. I'm not sure if they have a store near you or not. Their website shows that they have a few stores in CA but I'm not sure how far they are from you.

I bought a 5 foot King Kutter box scraper from them in Western PA for about 325 or so. It isn't quite as heavy duty looking as the Frontier I had for my old tractor, but it does the job. Most of the scraper work I do is on my 900 foot gravel driveway. If you are just doing driveway work(as opposed to really digging), you might want to go a bit wider than your rear tires--an extra few inches on each side of the rear tire is helpful for hitting the edge of the ditches while keeping your tires firmly on the driveway.

I also have a 6 foot Howse rotary cutter. I haven't used it a lot yet, but it seems fine for my needs. Everything I cut with it was cut last year, so I am not hitting really heavy stuff. I paid 695 for it, but your prices may be different out there.

Good luck with the search.

John