Opinions on brush cutting

[bcuster]

I just cleared a 1/2 acre similar-sized and density area a few weeks ago with a rented field brush cutter - Billy Goat brand. After seeing the vibration and driveline impact with larger diameter saplings, I'd buy a dedicated brusher cutter rather than subject my tractor's PTO line/rear to this abuse. I had to mow around trees/rocks as well, so having a smaller/narrower deck is ideal. If it's just smaller overgrowth, go for a bigger deck. For the amount of time and frequency needed to clear this property in the future, I'll probably just rent a brush mower again and tear up their stuff. RUN IT LIKE YOU RENTED IT!

 

[Yooper]

I just cleared a 1/2 acre similar-sized and density area a few weeks ago with a rented field brush cutter - Billy Goat brand. After seeing the vibration and driveline impact with larger diameter saplings, I'd buy a dedicated brusher cutter rather than subject my tractor's PTO line/rear to this abuse. I had to mow around trees/rocks as well, so having a smaller/narrower deck is ideal. If it's just smaller overgrowth, go for a bigger deck. For the amount of time and frequency needed to clear this property in the future, I'll probably just rent a brush mower again and tear up their stuff. RUN IT LIKE YOU RENTED IT!

Something like this? https://www.mowersdirect.com/Billy-Goat-BC2600HEBH-Lawn-Mower/p11215.html
I like the idea I could store this inside.

 

[bcuster]

Yes. The model I rented was older, but same concept. Only thing I didn't like about it was that there was no posi-trac. If it got hung up on a root or limb on the ground, it spun out, requiring a brief wrestling match to get it on its way again. Other than that, it was an awesome workout.

 

[Yooper]

Local hardware store rents these. I'll give it a try.

 

[Bulldog]

You need one of these. And the flail head does very well on brush.

 

[fendley]

You need one of these. And the flail head does very well on brush.

What is that? I want one!

 

[Yooper]

You need one of these. And the flail head does very well on brush.

Any guess on the weight of that tractor? That boom extends out pretty far! Not a bad thing if you have a heavy enough tractor.

 

[Bulldog]

It's a VMC, ORSI RB110 mower. Has 42" cut.

Tractor is a L3000. With loader and filled rears it weighs about 4500 lbs. Boom extends 10 1/2' horizontal and like 14' verticle.

 

[bearbait]

You need one of these. And the flail head does very well on brush.

That's exactly what I need but too much money for me.

 

[Bulldog]

That's exactly what I need but too much money for me.

I found this one used but more or less brand new for $2500. It didn't even have all the paint wore off the blades yet. Only thing it had been used for was trimming around a couple of small ponds. Man didn't like to weed eat so this was his solution.

 

[Yooper]

After looking at their website and watching a video, I'm starting to obsess on building something along the same lines, just a bit smaller. Let's see what a nights sleep does.

 

[bearbait]

I found this one used but more or less brand new for $2500. It didn't even have all the paint wore off the blades yet. Only thing it had been used for was trimming around a couple of small ponds. Man didn't like to weed eat so this was his solution.

Wow, what a deal, good for you congrats.

 

[Bulldog]

No telling what it cost new, he bought it from the local Deere dealer. He passed away and his wife was afraid to use it. She told me the price and I about hit the ground. Didn't even think of trying to talk her down. Simply said I'll take it and is cash okay.

 

[WFM]

I had no idea they made a flail mower that small that could be used on the 30 hp tractor. The only ones I had seen were working along the interstate in Vermont or New Hampshire and the tractors were at least 75hp. And the flail heads huge. If your pockets are deep enough you can own some really cool stuff.

 

[Yooper]

Bulldog, does the hydraulics for the flail head have a 'float' mode?

 

[Bulldog]

Yooper, the head does have a float mode. It takes some practice with the main boom on uneven surfaces but it will follow the ground very well. Best thing since sliced bread for trimming under fences. I have several miles of electric fence and it makes that job so much easier.

 

[Yooper]

Yooper, the head does have a float mode. It takes some practice with the main boom on uneven surfaces but it will follow the ground very well. Best thing since sliced bread for trimming under fences. I have several miles of electric fence and it makes that job so much easier.

OK, thanks! It sure looks versatile.