rotary cutter for bx23

midlf · Jul 4, 2006

8561 - Why the preference for the slip clutch?

8561 · Jul 5, 2006

Because I'd prefer not to change shear pins. I guess I've been scarred by having to do them on my snowblower - you know, 10 degrees outside, wind blowing, dark, and I'm out there changing a broken pin. I probably wouldn't mind as much on a brush hog, just kind of a PITA.

FamilyFarm · Jul 5, 2006

I'm thankful for the slip clutch on my 6ft hog that is more likely to see heavy duty use. On my 4ft cutter for the BX, I have never had a shear pin break and have hit a few obstacles here and there that I would have thought might have done it, but nothing that ever seemed to give the engine any problems. Just my experience FWIW.
Terry

midlf · Jul 5, 2006

Same here. Have a Befco 48" rotary cutter for two years now. I've found rocks, stumps etc with the blades and stump jumper. Have not sheared a shear bolt yet nor have I had the tractor act like a bolt should have sheared. When I bought it I picked up 6 extra shear bolts. Still have all 6. I have used a lot of shear bolts on the 7hp 24" snowblower. I think the difference is the blower can wedge objects between the auger or fan and the housing. The RC blades can swing out of the way and the center arm is protected by the stump jumper. It would be difficult to get something wedged between the rotating elements and the housing. I suspect something like hitting well pipe at a high forward speed would take out a shear bolt.

8561 · Jul 6, 2006

You guys are probably right, it may not be necessary. Just seems some of the better quality units have them, especially in larger sizes. Your logic comparing the operation of a snowblower as opposed to a rotary cutter does make sense.

redharley · Jul 6, 2006

Got to agree with midlf about a slip clutch on a BX,I would invest in gaurds instead if their not on what models you are considering.I have never broke a shear bolt yet and have chopped up some stuff that well you wouldn't think a BX would.Heavy grass and light brush should not present a problem,1 1/2" and larger stuff need a measure of common sense but can be accomplished.

HomeBrew2 · Jul 6, 2006

Same here re: shear bolts ... never gotten close to needing any protection due to caution and forethought.

Sidebar: I DID put an over-running clutch on my BX though, for my 48" Squealer ... cheap trick to reduce wear on the internal PTO brake.