International (W.A.C.) Stump-Jumper Design???

winchman · Jul 21, 2003

Hello,

The stump-jumper on these units is not the typical pan-style that I am used to seeing. They have a heavy, flat, round, steel plate that the blades swing from. In front of, and behind the round plate there are two pieces of heavy steel forming a v-shape, which I assume would cause the deck to ride up over what ever it contacts. My concern is that there seems to be a large enough gap between the v-shaped steel and the leading edge of the round plate, that what ever (a stump) it rides over could let the deck drop down and catch the round plate. O.K. Guys, set me straight! Am I missing something? These units look built as well, if not better than KK and are cheaper in my area, but this stump-jumper is holding me back.

Thanks,
winchman

winchman · Jul 22, 2003

Has anyone taken a good look at the stump-jumpers on these International Brand rotary cutters made in Bethel, Ohio? Is my concern unjust? I would really like some opinions on their non-panstyle stump-jumper.

Thanks,
winchman

Richard · Jul 22, 2003

although I'm clueless as to the brand name, the way you describe the underside, it looks IDENTICAL to how I'd describe the underside of our 5' cutter (which happens to reside behind an International 444).

I've never used one with an oval plate... only round.

As for stump jumping, I've only hit a couple and all but the last time, had no issues. The LAST time, something happened, machine stalled and one of those v-shaped plates got pretzled. My guess is the stump got caught right in the gap you are noticing. I've never seen another underside configuration though, so I have nothing to relate this gap to. The mower is old and has a couple thin spots in it, I presume it (ours) is not a heavy duty variety.

Richard

winchman · Jul 22, 2003

Richard,

Thanks for sharing your experience. I am concerned with the gap that you also noticed. I am afraid a stump could catch the round(not oval) plate that the blades swing from and possibly bend the output shaft on the gearbox. I wish I could figure out their reasoning for this design. Hopefully others will chime in /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

BobG_in_VA · Jul 22, 2003

Personnally, I hope you guys are more carefull than to let a "stump" ruin your day! Of course I'm thinkin' 10 inches across and 10inches high Oak type stump. I cut the stumps off at the ground with the power saw when I know I'm going to cut over them. Just be careful no matter what type of cutter you have. BobG in VA

sweettractors · Jul 22, 2003

The gap will never become a issue because the tractor ground speed and offset cut blades (no matter how slow you drive) will never let a stump of any size in that area.--Ken Sweet
Sweet Farm Equipment Co. *Since 1977*

JohnMiller3 · Jul 22, 2003

<font color="blue">( I am concerned with the gap that you also noticed ) </font>

I think International has the best stump jumper/blade holder of all the lower priced rotary cutters...

What "gap" are you referring to? Can you post a picture?

Slippy · Jul 22, 2003

I know exactly what you are referring to because I just looked at International 10' and 8' rotary cutters. Although I am be no means and expert on the subject, the gap you are refering to that I saw is not large enough for a stump of substanital enough size to fit in unles you happen to stop right on top of it. Even then, seems to me that as hd as these cutters are, it will eat right through it.
I have been looking at cutters for some time now, and compared to the rest, the construction and steel in the International Machine Inc. cutter is by far superior to any other I have seen. There was a Howse right next to it, and there is simply no comparison. I was told by the dealer I talked to that International has been making these mowers for 40 years. He is mainly a reseller to other dealers, but does sell some retail. The one I looked at is a Super M, and man does it have steel in it. CV joint in drive shaft, three 120 hp gear boxes on the 10'. In fact, the thing is so HD I am concerned it will be too heavy for my tractor. Anyone know anything else about International?

SPIKER · Jul 22, 2003

I posed abotu the internationals about 3 weeks back. asked for oppinions and got some, it was listed under "Looking for dealer near mansfield."

Mark M /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

sweettractors · Jul 23, 2003

Actually, they have made the 8 and 10 for maybe 8-9 years, max--The 8 has a notorious streaking problem and the Super 10 actually does somewhat better than the 8. We stock the smaller sizes of this brand and have had no problems with them. For strictly brush work the 8 or 10 will do fine and for finish they rate poorley--We now sell the M&W and Big Bee to avoid inherient problems in the 8 and 10 ft series--For what it is worth, we have a IMC Super 10 pull type in our shop currently for service. Replacing a broke blade, 2 input seals, 2 rubber torque pads and tailwheel bearing on 1 side. Unit is 3 years old.--Ken Sweet
Sweet Farm Equipment Co. *Disc Mowers Headquarters*