As others have said, the clutch is needed to start the engine. That's about it. I DON'T use mine to engage the FWD. I do stop then engage, if it is "sticky" a very light bump on the treadle peddle will allow it to slip in easily. I do use it to engage the PTO on a heavy implement like a brush cutter. You could drop down to idle and engage and be ok. I drop rpms and use the clutch to maximize longevity. Almost zero strain on the clutches that way. For things like rototilling, I will typically not use the clutch peddle. A typical day may only see the clutch used 1-3 times in 8-12 hours.
The 4240 HST should easily handle a 6' cutter. Whacking 2-3" saplings is not an issue. Thick grass is harder and takes more power than a 3" sapling. More of it and it is being cut and recut while the blades are swirling around. The saplings just get whacked up and done and they are usually fairly widely spaced. If there is a bog down happening, just lighten up on the HST and slow your travel speed a bit until it picks up. No big deal and a natural reaction after a short while.
Hope you find a good one.
jb
The 4240 HST should easily handle a 6' cutter. Whacking 2-3" saplings is not an issue. Thick grass is harder and takes more power than a 3" sapling. More of it and it is being cut and recut while the blades are swirling around. The saplings just get whacked up and done and they are usually fairly widely spaced. If there is a bog down happening, just lighten up on the HST and slow your travel speed a bit until it picks up. No big deal and a natural reaction after a short while.
Hope you find a good one.
jb
