Rear Finish Mower Woods RD990X PTO HP

[tlj87]

As of this writing, the minimum required PTO HP of the current Woods RD990X mower is 45 PTO HP. The previous version of this mower, the RD990, had a minimum requirement of 25 PTO HP.

I phoned Woods technical support to see why there was such a large change. The tech said that they updated the published minimum HP to adapt to the changing tractor market since there are now so many "high horsepower" compacts on smaller, lighter frames, that would power the mower, but not be able to safely handle its weight. So, in other words, if you have a lower HP, large frame compact that can handle the heavy weight (1,300 lbs) of the mower, you may be fine.

I purchased an RD990X in late 2018 and have used it all of the current season with our Ford 3000 gas (47 HP, 37 PTO HP) and have had no problems. It is impressive in its cut quality and construction. I did have to find front wheel weights for the tractor to use a counter-balance due to the weight of the mower. Our neighbor, who has a John Deere 4600 power shift (41 HP, 36 PTO HP), borrowed the RD990X to mow his horse pasture and had no issues (he is now looking for a RD900X).

We are considering replacing our Kubota BX with a larger machine, that could share implements with the Ford. While we have not settled on the model, the L4060 HST (40 hp, 32.5 PTO HP), is one we're considering, and wanted to know if it would adequately run the RD990X, which it seems it would.

 

[RickB]

I ran a RM990 with a 42PTO HP Case 885 effortlessly for several years. With proper front ballast you will be fine with the L4060 so long as you do not try to mow very tall thick grass at a high rate of speed. The hydro transmission will be useful in matching power to conditions, but I really do not see HP being a limiting factor in most situations.

Edit: I am reminded of a County Fair Association that pulled a 12 foot flex wing finish mower for years mowing parking lots and grounds with a New Holland TC45D.