Tractor Mike's video: How Do Manufacturers Rate the Size of Tractors Needed to Pull Rotary Cutters

This is on my list of most frequently asked questions, "How big a brush hog will work with my tractor?" Usually, it's more specific like, "I have a John Deere 4720 (or Massey 240, or New Holland TC55) tractor, will it pull a Woods 15' cutter?" That's a real tough question for me to answer, it's especially hard for rotary cutter manufacturers, like Woods, to rate the horsepower needed for their machines. There are so many factors involved. At the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky I posed a question to Robert Dewey, Vice President of Engineering for Woods Equipment Company, "How do you rate the horsepower requirements of your cutters?" I'm wondering if they're rated on flat ground or hills, mowing grass or the maximum size material recommended, and what about the weight of the tractor...how is that factored in? He offered insight on the challenges the manufacturers have in determining tractor compatibility and the wide variety of factors that influence how big a rotary cutter can be easily pulled by your tractor. His advice is to develop a relationship with your local equipment dealer and utilize their expertise. Your local dealer is going to know the challenges of your terrain and the difficulties encountered cutting trees and brush native to your area. He or she has probably sold equipment to your neighbors and may know exactly where your property is and what cutter you'll need to successfully mate to your tractor so you get the job done as quickly as possible in a safe way and don't damage your tractor or the cutter. In the end, the manufacturer's recommendation for horsepower requirement is a guess. Better add to that number on hills and when cutting larger material. It's also good to know if your tractor is putting out the horsepower it's rated for. Finally, your local dealer is a more reliable source of information than some dude on YouTube :)! LINKS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT... The Tractor Fun Store: https://asktractormike.com/products-for-sale/ Support the Tractor Mike Channel: https://www.patreon.com/TractorMike Visit the Tractor Mike website: http://asktractormike.com/ Visit Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Ask-Tractor-Mike-312112962245304/ Copyright 2020 Tractor Mike LLC