Should I even consider a 7' cutter?

[dntfxr]

Hi folks, I know this subject is brought up fairly often but should I consider a 7' cutter for my xr4155c? The rears are loaded also. I'm thinking it will be a bit much but my dealer has offered me a good deal. Any replies are much appreciated!

 

[dntfxr]

Well I guess it was a dumb question, I'll take that as a yes it's too big lol...
Maybe I'll save my pennies for a dual spindle 8'er.

 

[Oldgreybear]

We pulled an 8' with a 45 hp john deere for years. No problems at all.

 

[LD1]

IMO, I'd skip the 7 and get a twin spindle 8'.

While I have not ran either, those that have claim the 8' takes less HP to run.

To me, I cannot see any benefit of the 7' cutter. Claimes to take more HP for a smaller cut, sticks back really far so is not as maneuverable, and probably dont cut as even on rolling ground, and requires a heavier tractor and/or more weight up front than a twin 8.

Only thing I see a 7' useful for is a nice counter ballast for the FEL.

Now dont get me wrong, 7' cutters are fine. Just given the choice, I see a twin 8' offering so much more.

 

[smstonypoint]

Just curious. How many acres are you mowing and how often?

Steve

 

[Rustyiron]

We pulled an 8' with a 45 hp john deere for years. No problems at all.

I'll raise (or lower) your 45 hp with 36hp with an 8' (pull type). Just a little slower.
dntfxr, I think you'll be fine.

 

[vsteel]

I run 5' with 18hp (PTO). No issues, just if things get really thick I need to slow down some. I am OK with that though.

 

[Poopdeck Pappy]

As LD1 mentioned, the problem with a 7' brush hog on a tractor your size isn't only the HP necessary to spin it, it's the weight of that big long beast hanging way back there behind your tractor. Think about the fulcrum effect on a tractor your size.

While your tractor MIGHT have enough HP to spin it (and I'm doubtful about that in anything you would need a brush hog for), that big beast will be the tail wagging the dog and your tractor will seem like a very small dog with a very large tail.

 

[blueriver]

We pulled an 8' with a 45 hp john deere for years. No problems at all.

Really ... put that cutter in some true 18-24" heavy bahia and see how that works.

 

[dntfxr]

Thanks for the input folks, I figured the weight so far back would be the main issue. My place is mostly flat though and I kinda got to thinking if I set it so the tailwheel stays on the ground it might not be too bad. Main reason I'm considering the 7' is my local dealer has one in stock that he offered me for not much more than a HD 6'er. I've got 42 acres of which about 20 will be mowed probably twice a year. Part of that is trails and woods, small brush sometimes depending on how long I let it go. I do have an old 6'er, about 35yrs old, but I'd like to at least get something newer. I'm still open to suggestions, not sure what to do..