Tiller Tiller offset vs side shift

jimg · Mar 4, 2004

While researching tillers I've found that there are two types of offset. The first and simplest (Ill call it offset) is done by moving the attachment points only (the gearbox remains stationary). The amount of offset is limited b/c the PTO must operate at an angle. The second (Ill call it side shift) differs in that the gearbox moves w/ the attachment points. With this setup the PTO is never angled no matter how far the tiller is offset. I would think that side shift would be easier on the drive line, tractor and tiller =ing less maintenance down the road. It would also be more versatile in that the offset can be considerably more.

So, call me slow but all this just dawned on me this morning while trying to make a final choice on what to buy. Its not easy from catalog/web site pics to determine which method a particular machine is. I'd like to hear for those who own tillers: which type do you own, how difficult is it to adjust off of center. For those who own offset types do you get a lot of vibration running at PTO speed? My short list is Caroni, Sicma and CCM. Id be esp interested in hearing for folks who own these brands.

shvl73 · Mar 4, 2004

Jim, Northeastern Forklift in Epsom had a DelMarino 53" this fall for around $1600.00 with side shift that works with a crank handle. I wanted a little more width so I went with the 60" First Choice/Sicma that you saw. Have you had a chance to see many other brands in person? I bought mine blind off the net from Corrihers, but their rep is good & they were easy to deal with. I've only had one chance to use it, this past fall. So far, so good.

johnsonauto · Mar 4, 2004

We sell Befco units which are side sift style , loosen the bolts and slide it to the side the gear box stays centered and the shaft between the gear box and side chain case slides in a teloscoping tube. They have been very reliable for us and are well built units.
www.NewEnglandTractor.com

Bird · Mar 4, 2004

Jim, I had a Bush Hog RTS40, which would be what you've called a "side shift". I used it centered on my B7100, but then shifted it to the right when I had the B2710. I agree with your opinion that keeping the driveline straight is preferable, although I can't say it's necessary. And with my tiller at least, there was no vibration either way; centered or shifted to the side, but of course my driveline was kept straight. Of course, you do get some "vibration" when it's in the ground and hits a rock, root, stump, or bricks (all of which I've done). /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

I guess I should also say that I only shifted my tiller about 3" to the right, which was all I needed and that was about all I could shift and keep the driveline straight. I believe the manual said it could be offset 6", so I "assume" (you know how that goes) they meant to shift it both of the ways you mentioned to get the 6".

jimg · Mar 4, 2004

shvl73,
I didnt try any of the local places b/c traditionally theyre several hundred $$ over what some of the dealers here and the net charge (and that incs shipping). That said a crank actuated side shift sounds pretty handy and the 53" width would work well w/ my 24D.

Mostly Ive not seen any of these other than in pics. Well, thats not completely true....a member here invited me over for tiller show/tell.

So, the tiller you have is offset or side shift?

johnsonauto,
Whats your price for the 50" and 58" T-40 and the sales tax rate in CT?

Bird,
Good pt about hitting stationary buried things...hadnt considered that. With the drive line angled Im sure is really tough on the joints.

shvl73 · Mar 4, 2004

Jim, my tiller is offset capable, not sure how much, Corrihers could tell you. I've only tried it centered. The brackets would have to be loosened & moved to one side. I wouldn't woory too much about the u-joints in the driveline, I don't think it would be offset enough to cause an excessive angle, similar or less than the angle the shaft is in when centered & lowered for use. I would still defer to the dealers reccomendation, they should have enough experience with their brand. I would be interested to see CCM's gear drive unit, it sounds good & the $ seem right.

brentbx22 · Mar 4, 2004

jimg
I have the Befco (side shaft) and have used it center and slid all the say and i would highly recomend it.

DocHeb · Mar 4, 2004

I wouldn't expect much vibration attributable to the side shift. After all, other attachments such as rotary mowers have significant drive angles on the PTO universal joints and they handle it without problems. I'll have to second Bird's comment that you will have a hard time sensing PTO vibration while the tiller is going wild behind you.

Once you offset to cover a tire tread I don't envision a routine need to offset further.

I would suggest getting a tiller with 6 blades per flange. I think this makes each individual "bite" of soil smaller, and may be smoother running.

jimg · Mar 4, 2004

The PTO angle for a mower is in one direction but for an offset tiller its two. Im not so concerned about sensing it as I am my equipment esp the drive line. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif Im going to get a tiller wide enough to cover the tires...was going to offset to get in close to a rock wall and around a building. I would like max clearance (between tractor and stationary object) around both. Yes, if possible I was going for a 6 tine.

sl3uth · Mar 4, 2004

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( The PTO angle for a mower is in one direction but for an offset tiller its two. )</font>

That's not really true since it's a round object spinning; the joints only care about the single angle between the shaft and the coupling.

The forces on the gear box and tractor frame would be a little different, but the universals would not care about up/down, right/left, or any combination in between.

Sam