Front PTO

[KiotiJohn]

I'm not sure that I would want a rotary cutter out in front of me unless I had plenty of extra protection against flying objects. At least on my tractor, the mower is down low and flying objects may hit my tires, but would have to be thrown a good bit UP to hit me!
On the front, it would be much easier for me to be hit by debris.
I'm sure this could be done, and appropriate shielding would need to be incorporated for driver protection.
John

 

[PineRidge]

I'm with John as I have seen objects (rocks, limbs, and other debris) pass me when using the rotary cutter that I'm glad didn't hit me. For those that use a rotary cutter on a regular basis a cab might be the best solution, but I still wouldn't want a rotary cutter out in front of me regardless.

 

[larso1]

There are factory front PTO's out there. I have one for my Iseki, made for the Bolens models. Haven't mounted it yet, but I attached a photo of a Bolens tractor with one installed.
These Bolens models are no longer made but front PTO kits must be out there for other CUT's.
Bill

 

[SkogenMe]

Might want to check out:
http://www.buctraco.com/FrontHitches.htm

 

[WilliamBos]

And check this one out too. They are a major supplier, and even supply factory units in Europe/NA!

http://www.zuidberg.nl/uk/

Take care.

Will

 

[MossBoss]

I've never thought about flying debris from an out front rotary. There are many thousands of them out there now (all proprietary) and though I've never heard of anyone ever getting hit I'm sure it probably has happened. I have a 5 foot out front rotary and have never seen anything ever come even close to me. I think I have my problem solved though. my local Deere dealer suggested using the same hydraulics that are used for front mount snowblowers or sweepers. He said use the front hydraulics for the up and down function of the mower and use the rear remote routed to the front for the steady on/off function of the mower. Does that seem practical and powerful enough for a 10 to 12 foot rotary mower?

 

[KiotiJohn]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( There are many thousands of them out there now (all proprietary) and though I've never heard of anyone ever getting hit I'm sure it probably has happened. )</font>
I was actually thinking of just adapting a rear rotary cutter to the front. Some modification would need to be done to prevent flying material. I suppose those proprietary units designed for front mount would be made with these protections.
As to the hydraulic set up, I see no reason that wouldn't work, with the exception that your tractor's hydro flow rate may not be enough for a cutter that large. That's what you'll need to determine.
John