Too many to choose from, HELP

doctor41baller · Jan 17, 2012

I have a Deutz Fahr 70hp tractor. I have 22 acres of pastor. Other than the occasional ant hill, its pretty much just tall grass. I'm looking to get a 6ft BUSHHOG. I wouldn't like to spend more than $1400, but having a problem deciding...Any ideas or brands to look more at? I've found a few but not sure if they will hold up.

Bigfoot62 · Jan 17, 2012

First of all, you will pretty much get what you pay for. Steel cost money, and weight = strength and durability.

Even though you don't have anything but grass to cut, I would strongly urge you to stay away from the "economy" cutters. (bushhog squealer, modern sunshine, etc)
The best cutter that I own is a Hardee/Tiger. (no longer made) At the time, they were one of the most expensive 'hogs that you could buy.
My 5' cutter is an old Modern Highway Special. Great piece of equipment, but I don't think that the current ones are built as well as my old one.
I also have a 7' medium duty Rhino. It's OK, and would proably be fine for your uses, but it's built a little light for my tastes. I had to replace the tail-wheel assembly after the first mowing season. Just not heavy enough.

RWTschoeke · Jan 17, 2012

I have been using a Woods Heritage HC 72 for field mowing approx 15 acres the past two years. Probably 40 hours max on it and it has served me well. Quickly learned how to change shear bolts off the bat, but with experience on what the mower will handle that has become a less frequent problem. Regular lubrication easy to perform as are hight adjustments of rotary wheel. Got it for $900 at the time of tractor purchase.

KYDan · Jan 17, 2012

Is there some reason that you want such a small mower for a 70HP tractor?

jshwhite · Jan 17, 2012

Agree on the "you get what you pay for". I know from experience that a good bushhog will take a lot of abuse and a lighter-duty one will leave you with more time welding than mowing.

Haven't tried enough brands to recommend any particular one, but I have heard BushHog brand is very good. I had a Howse and was always tearing it up. I now have a Woods and it's nice, but still wish it was heavier.

Also agree you could easily run wider than 6ft with 72hp.

creekbend · Jan 17, 2012

Perhaps you should consider this fact? In regards of a $1400.00 limit, it is somewhat doubtful that this sum will be sufficient to purchase a new well built and sturdy dependable quality unit. I would recommend looking at used models that are capable of handling the tasks that you need it for. I have a 6-foot Woods BB. If time is not limited, take the time to look around and search for a good deal. Here's wishing you the best of Luck in regards to your search and future acquisition.

daveinnh · Jan 17, 2012

I have a cheap International something that has a thin deck and 1 rear wheel.

When looking for new, I'd look for thicker steek deck, 2 wheels and a "stumpjumper" dish, that may reduce tangling the blades when hitting something solid.