Grass Catcher for BX2200

[ToolDad]

I am shopping for a grass catcher/leaf vaccum for my BX2200. I mow about 1.5 acres, not heavily wooded. So far I am considering the OEM attachment, Cyclone Rake, Agri-Fab, and Trac-vac. Each has it's pros/cons. I like the OEM PTO drive, but it is kind of small (9.75bush) and costly. Cyclone Rake uses a 2-point hitch for easy backing. Anybody had any experiences they could share to help in making the decision?
/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[Junkman]

I used a Cyclone Rake for a few years. The early ones had there share of problems with the canvas bag zippers and snaps, but all that has been resolved. They can be a pain to empty since they pack the material so tightly, so you might need a rake to help empty it. If I were to get a new one, I would go with the Commercial model. Over all, I would rate mine a 8.5 out of a perfect score of 10. I would prefer a Honda engine over the Tecumseh that they use. You will need to purchase the adapter to bolt to the rear of the BX, and I suggest that you purchase the Kubota deck boot and deflector also. I have seen recent posts saying that they have improved the hose and that the improved hose is a up charge from the original. I would also go for that. There guarantee is if you don't like it, send it back, so I don't see this as much of a gamble.

 

[Av8r3400]

I'm very happy with the performance and quality on the OEM vac/catcher that I have.

It is well integrated to the tractor and NO PONY MOTOR! Why have the aggravation of a second motor with a different fuel when it is not needed?

 

[Dave_S]

How do you empty the Kubota Catcher

Thanks

Dave

 

[toadhall]

I'm on my third season with the OEM grass catcher and am generally pretty satisfied with it. It holds a lot and the bags are easy to lift off and dump. It is really a blessing on leaves as well. As others have commented, its hard to put on and take off, but gets easier with each season. I have it down to about a 30 min. singlehanded job, using a transmission jack and casters. Wish it were easier so I'd be more willing to take it off during mowing season to use other implements.

 

[Av8r3400]

<font color="blue">( ... As others have commented, its hard to put on and take off...I have it down to about a 30 min. singlehanded job, using a transmission jack and casters... )</font>

Check the link below for the easiest method of installation. I just put mine on today in about 10 minutes, by myself, the only tool needed was a hammer for the stubborn top pin. I made the complete change over from FEL and Box-blade to Deck and Catcher/Vac in less than 30 minutes. Check out the rest of my website for other views and comments.

The three "bags" on the catcher come off independently when the lid is opened. Very easy to do, they have a convenient strap on the bottom for dumping. I can mow my entire lawn (3/4 acre) twice before I have to empty it.

OEM Vac/Catcher Install

 

[surfran]

Here is an old post of mine regarding the Grass Catcher when I first got it.

BX Grass Catcher

And here is another from last falls leaf cleanup /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Leaf Pickup

Overall I am satified with the operation, but still hate wrestling the thing on and off. I tried AV8R's trick with the board underneath the other day when I put it on for the first time this year and it helped, but was still a pain in the butt! /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif

I too would use it more often for mowing probably if it was as easy as the loader to install/remove.

I think a telescoping top link would work that you could attach then lift and set a pin.

ARE YOU READING THIS KUBOTA?

 

[ToolDad]

Why do you recommend the Kubota boot, is the fit? I was all for it until I saw that the CR boot has quick-clamps (buckles?) incorporated to secure the hose. How did you secure the hose with the Kubota boot? Is this any issue to be concerned about?

 

[Volfandt]

Went throught a similar decision makeing process awhile back.
The link details it.

Good Luck
Volfandt
Liink

 

[ToolDad]

Thanks for the link. Good information. I think my mind is made up, just need to pull the trigger. Probably later this week. Still not sure whether the Kubota boot is a better alternative or not. Anybody else out there with input on this?

I am guessing it fits the MMM better, but you have to use a hose clamp. Wonder it too needs bracing for the HD hose?