imatch compatibility with rotary cutters

savageayape · Nov 30, 2006

I just ordered a 3520 and will be receiving it in early January. It is comming with imatch. I am considering rotary cutters but a concern is which cutters will be compatible with imatch? I'm looking at 6' light duty rotary cutters from BEFCO, Bush Hog, Land Pride and Woods. Does anyone know if any any of these will not be compatible with imatch without altering the 3pt on the cutter? I do not want to do any cutting and welding on my new implements (to keep the warranty in tact and because I have never welded anything in my life).

rmonio · Nov 30, 2006

I'd buy an MX or LX (preferably an MX) if you could. Not only would it fit (

) but you'd also have the right product behind your JD...

-Bob

savageayape · Nov 30, 2006

I would like to have the MX, but my 3520 will only handle the MX5. I have close to 10 acres to mow and prefer to have a 6' cutter. I don't expect to do much clearing of small sapplings, so the light duty should be fine. My only concern with the LX series has to do with the price. Looking atthe specs on the other models I mentioned and considering prices, the other models are a much better deal. I'm not saying they are better, they are just better for the money. However, if I can not use the imatch with any of the other brands, then I will go with the LX.

rmonio · Nov 30, 2006

There are many others that could probably help you debate price vs. performance with the other models. I've had my MX6 for my 4600 since mid-last year and it has been a real workhorse. I wouldn't even consider an LX due to the lack of slip-clutch, strength of the decking, etc. The MX does it all.

I also know that Mike (rockyridgefarm here on TBN) has a MX6 on his 43xx unit. That is not rated for the MX6.... and he is able to do it well enough. I cut 10 acres with mine and I can't think of anything else I'd rather use.

Plus it fits my i-Match. And I wouldn't dare try to pick that baby up without an i-Match. In fact, I've gone back and made changes to my other non-JD implements (the only one is the Buhler Farm King Finish Mower - but they had a kit that I could use) so I could keep that i-Match. It's been a backsaver for me.

So keep these things in mind - and if you can, buy the MX unit. Good luck!

-Bob

3720_Owner · Nov 30, 2006

Doesn't help with your original question, as I have never tried any rotary cutters besides my LX6. You are probably right the price is a little higher for the specs of the unit. I can tell you that I have had my LX6 for the past year and it has done a great job on cutting my 8 acres of field. I got it and the tractor right after buying the farm and so I was not as familiar with the condition of the fields as I would have liked when I started mowing. Have attempted to mow a lot more stuff than I would have liked to, such as branches, fence posts, rocks, etc. without any problems. Makes a LOUD bang when you try to cut something other grass and brush, but the blades pivot out of the way. Mine does have the slip clutch, I believe it was an option when I bought it.

Before everyone jumps all over me for mowing rocks and other stuff, I have tried to avoid them whenever possible and when I (or the cutter) find them I pop them out of the field with the FEL.

Steven

Neophyte · Dec 3, 2006

I believe the LandPride unit is QuickHitch / iMatch compatible; you will just need their Floating Top Link Kit (around $27).

I think the Woods unit is also iMatch compatible using the Woods QuickHitch Kit (around $125). I think you could also use the LandPride Floating Top Link Kit with it instead.

I'm not sure about the BEFCO or Bush Hog. Most rotary cutters can be adapted with a little work.