Rotary Cutter Can a brush hog handle saplings and mow grass?

[rd_macgregor]

The first time through a sapling-infested field with your brush hog you need to be patient. If you go too fast, it will bend them over and cut them off at an angle about 12" long, leaving punji stakes all over the field. I have done this 'way too often, to my dismay. If you go slower, the mower will cut each sapling several times, including chopping off the punji at whatever height you have the mower set.
Of course, this wouldn't be an issue with a flail mower, but I think you might have to go slower with a flail, on average, anyway.
BOB

 

[swmich42]

I have specific instructions and diagrams about servicing the slip clutch from the Deere site, however you mention "flex couplings". I need more definition on that description. Does this refer to the top link, and it's ability to pivot, or are you referring to setting your draft links to move with the terrain by putting the lift link pins in the float position; or am I totally off? (My tractor does not have draft sensing either)

 

[Interlaux]

No - I was off - the 609 has no flex couplings - talking,posting and breathing - too much for me. If you look at the connections (on a twin spindle) between a T-box and the side gear boxes you have something to help take the impact but dosent slip - the blades have to stay at 180 deg or they will try to violate the laws of physics - so you can only have a slip clutch from the pto to the T-box

Sounds like the 609 was a awesome deal!
a 4700 with 100 hours!

 

[jnh92]

I have a Brush Hog that I use on my lawn and have used it for years and it does a great job. I must tell you that I am by now way a grass perfectionist, but there is no complaints from those who come to visit me. I shred 5-6 acres of johnson grass then cut my 1 acre and does a decent job. I must admit ever there is a HUGE difference when my son uses his little JD riding mower to cut the yard, you can immediately tell he cut it vs. me. I guess its' all preference, get your Brush Hog and try it, only you will be able to determine if you are satisfied or not.