Bush Hog question

[SouthernMan]

Friends;
I have three bush hogs (which is what we call ALL rotary cutters down here in TN; sorta like all soft drinks are "Co-Colas") that I regulary use - two are 3 pt hitch models (5' and a 6') and one is a pull type 10'. the two hitch models are pretty wore out, and i'm looking to get another...

I have settled on the Bush Hog mod. 287 - but my question is - what type mount? I can get 3pt hitch, quick hitch (which I don't have provision for as yet on my tractor), or semi-mount. My tractor has 73 bhp, and 61+ pto hp, so it should handle any config. I am seriously considering the semi-mount, but have never used one. Can any of you enlighten me to the various benefits/comparison of each configuration? Have you any preference, and why?
SM

 

[Indydirtfarmer]

Pull type mowers do a good job. They are great for relatively level ground, or when the mower is just too big for a lift type. Semi-mounts offer some of the advantages of a pull type, with the control of a mounted mower. They suffer somewhat when transporting, but all in all, are a good set-up. 3-point mowers cause the tractor to carry weight that will make the front end light. They offer better transportability, and are better for extremely rough ground.

All have their advantages and disadvantages.

When it's all said and done, I prefer fully mounted for anything smaller than 8', and pull type for anything bigger.

(I run a full-time mowing business, for what it's worth)

 

[Soundguy]

I'd go with whatever you prefer. I have a 10' and 5' 3pt mower... Like them. If I had a batwing.. I'd of course have a drag type on the 10'.. etc. One thing.. when i back up.. I know EXACTLY where the ower is going.. on a drag.. on level land.. i know pretty much where it is going.. but terain changes can effect trajectory.

Go whith what you like.. I've found trailering is easier with 3pt equiptment.

Soundguy

 

[Willman]

I have been running a 5' pull type behind my AC CA for a number of years.
If your doing a large field with mostly straight running its not bad.
If you need to do a lot of turning and backing the pull types can become a real pain.
Turning needs to be wide so you dont bind the PTO shaft.

 

[Slamfire]

That model sounds pretty big for connecting a stationary mower with a 3 point to the tractor. At the very least you'd want to have it sitting on a movable dolly so you can move it around during the hook up. I park my little 4' on a tire/wheel combination, and can swivel it to connect the lower arms. I don't think that'd work for you unless you have a really big tire/wheel. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif I've no experience with any of the others but the one with the mating inverted V brackets on both the tractor and implement looks like the easiest to
use. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif