Shopping and Safety Tips

How to choose the right equipment, how to properly use and care for it, and and how to stay safe while using it!

CHOOSING A CUTTER
When you start to buy your rotary cutter, first measure the width of your tractor from outside to outside on the rear tires. If your tractor is, for example, 55" wide, then a 60" cutter would "cover your tracks" as we call it. At least cover your tracks with your cutter.
 
Next, let's see what the size gearbox you need. Determine the horsepower of your tractor. This will be found in your owner's manual, or call your dealer or mechanic to determine the rating. Example: a Ford 8N was rated at 28 hp, so a cutter with a 40 hp gearbox will be sufficient. If you have a 45 hp tractor, then for light cutting, the 40 will work, but a cutter with a 75 hp gearbox will be better. 

Third, how heavy duty a mower should you purchase?  The difference in our lighter mowers to our heaviest is simply more steel in the frame and gearbox.  Look at what type of cutting you'll be doing, and determine the reinforcement needed in your cutter.
 
Finally, be safe. NEVER remove safety shields. ALWAYS shut off your equipment and tractor before approaching the cutter to repair or clean. BE AWARE AND ALERT!

BUYING A BOX BLADE
When shopping for a box blade, always choose one at least as wide as your tractor!

PROTECT YOUR HARROW
One of the most common mistakes by new disc owners is to leave the disc harrow in the ground as they make a sharp turn. Doing this will break blades, bend frames, and destroy your new disc harrow very quickly.  REMEMBER!  Always pick your disc harrow up clear of the ground when you start to turn!