Rotary Cutter Is this a bad idea that's going to damage my tractor or me?

[Maestro71]

No problem for a brush cutter, the 60" ones are real cheap on Craigslist, it's the little ones that are pricey. I wanted a slip clutch but ended up with shear bolt and haven't had any problems.

 

[RBA50]

(although I finally stopped putting tire shine on the tractor tires!)

Your tires will thank you for that. That stuff is not good for the rubber, it leaches out the elasticizers. I learned this from a tire guy when I replaced the tires on my new to me used truck. The sidewalls were checked and splitting. I mentioned that the sun had taken its toll and he said it was obvious there had been tire shine used, and that it was the cause of the damage.

 

[Teikas Dad]

Your tires will thank you for that. That stuff is not good for the rubber, it leaches out the elasticizers. I learned this from a tire guy when I replaced the tires on my new to me used truck. The sidewalls were checked and splitting. I mentioned that the sun had taken its toll and he said it was obvious there had been tire shine used, and that it was the cause of the damage.

Good to know, thanks!

 

[Ken45101]

Your tires will thank you for that. That stuff is not good for the rubber, it leaches out the elasticizers. I learned this from a tire guy when I replaced the tires on my new to me used truck. The sidewalls were checked and splitting. I mentioned that the sun had taken its toll and he said it was obvious there had been tire shine used, and that it was the cause of the damage.

IDK. I had to replace the OEM tires on the pickup because of sidewall deterioration even though the tread was in great shape. I've never used anything other than rainstorms to clean the truck or tires.

I'm not saying the chemicals are good by any means, but I can't blame them for the deterioration on my tires.

 

[Teikas Dad]

I know one thing that's bad for tires...lack of use. I used to have a motorhome and had to replace the tires every few years before they wore out due to sidewall drying/cracking. Tire guy told me that when tires are run they flex and it keeps the rubber compound flexible. Don't know if he was jerking my chain or not.

 

[jbeall]

I don't think a rotary cutter would have any issues with what you're considering using it for. I love my John Deere LX4. I bought mine used and I would encourage you to look for something used on Craigslist. Back when I was searching, it seemed like there were rotary cutters ("bush hogs") in good shape available used for around $500.

From what I've read, flail mowers are nicer, but I've been perfectly happy with my rotary cutter, and I don't think the extra cost of the flail mower is worth it for me. If you've only going to use yours infrequently, I would say the same probably goes for you.

-Josh