who is using a DRUM mower ?

[bjr]

I've the 52" SFI machine, just took delivery about two months ago. I can't remember the exact model but I think it's got a big 135 painted or decal ed on it. I have orchard grass as well, but very small 1-1/2 acres. I've only used it once so far but it worked extremely well, I thought. SFI is in Texas and were great people to work with. I like the simplicity (the easy to change blades) and rate of cut AND the PRICE. No one (the local implement dealers) here in E. WA. state had even heard of them. I guess they been around Europe for a while. It seems most manufacturers are in Turkey. I use a 35 hp Jinma tractor and it seems to handle it just fine. Hope this small review helps. I went thru the same thing you are going thru trying to get user input from a actual owner. bjr

 

[MikeF]

Okay so I adjusted the rolls as they had been set to tight and were causing some of the problems. I was able to run 3-3.5 mph and mow the hay with no issues so for now I am going to keep the 489. Since I plan to obtain more hay ground and a larger tractor I am not going to persue the DRUM mower. Thanks to all who gave Input, that is what makes this site so good and sometimes entertaining.

Mike

 

[jlewis457]

Hello ALL,

I would like to hear from people that are using a DRUM mower for haying, I have a JD 4720 and am currently using a NH489 haybine, NH 56 rake, Kuhn tedder and a New Idea 4x4 bailer. I only make hay on about 6 acres right now and even on that small amount the 489 haybine is very slow, so I am considering a DRUM mower. After searching the web some it looks like only a few foreign companies make them and then lots of companies badge them ???? the DRUM's are much cheaper than the disc mowers I was considering and I am on a strict budget but I dont want to wind up with a POS either. Thanks for the help.

Mike

I know this is a old topic This is from personal experance I have both a Heston 1071 haybine and a 6' Galfre drum mower my drum mower is super heave and takes some horses to get it turning after you get it up to speed though you can run around the feild at lower RPM's the real good thing is that you can sometimes find them cheap at auctions because so many people think that the only way to go is with a haybine and boy are they wrong I can mow as fast as I can set in the seat with it very basic design easy to repair clean cutting. the haybine is always breaking and setting it outside does not help on all the parts setting a drum mower outside all you have to do is set it up on some wood.