Rotary cutter rear deck shape?

[bcp]

I've been watching CL and dealers for a used rear mower. Not many 42" or 48" like I need but lots of 60." Anyway, the rear deck shapes I've seen have been square, half octagon, and round.

Does anyone have any experience with several shapes and seen any cutting difference due to shape?

Thanks,

Bruce

 

[nybirdman]

All the deck does is keep the shrapnel inside.I would be more concerned with the gear-box.Make sure it has no leaks.Slip Clutch or shear pin.Buying used make sure they work(shear pin not replace with a grade bolt)

 

[LD1]

Yep, there are more important things that effect the cut. Deck shape has little to do with it. The ratio of the gearbox IE: blade speed, makes the biggest difference in how they cut.

The round-back cutters are nice for getting into tighter areas, and when turning close to a fence line or what not. The half-octagon are similar. The full out square ones arent as good for tight areas and getting close to things, but still cut the same.

Just a guess, but I suspect that back in the day, square was easier and cheaper to make. Now with the price of steel, and modern equipment, I am guessing the round back designs are cheaper by using less steel.

 

[Zebrafive]

I think a round rear deck might be more forgiving if you were to back into something. It would glance off easier. I like how Woods builds theirs with a round tube or pipe almost like a bumper.