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What Size Tractor Mower Should I Get?

Feb. 19 2021 Tractor Mower By Team Tractor and Equipment

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We want to help you select the right size tractor mower.

If you do not understand these tips, strategies, or processes, please consult your local dealer or mechanic.  And as always, be sure to consult your owner’s manual for model-specific information. 

Let’s get to it. 


There are 3 factors you need to consider when purchasing a tractor mower...

  • Type
  • Size
  • Weight


TYPE

You need to decide what type of mower you need --- a finish or rough cut/brush.

A finish mower will leave a smooth cut look.   

It has 3 smaller blades that spin very fast. The blades are very delicate.  This means they are not very good for areas loaded with rocks, sticks, and stumps.

The rough cut mower (aka brush mower) has one heavy blade.  This mower is great for mowing areas loaded with debris and trash.  It does not leave a great finish. 

Rough cut mowers can mow branches over 1" in diameter without any damage.


SIZE 

A good rule of thumb is to have 4hp for every 1’ of mower.  For example --- a 16hp Yanmar tractor will have enough power to run a 4’ mower.  There are obviously exceptions to this rule such as a 16hp tractor will not run a 4' mower through 1' of tall grass.  So there are situational elements to always consider.    


WEIGHT

There are some important things to understand when it comes to mower weight.

For instance --- your tractor may be able to power a 5’ mower.  That does not mean it can handle a 5’ mower.    

Consider this --- if your mower is too heavy it will be difficult to steer.  The tractor will want to do "wheelies" when you start to move forward.  This happens because of all the weight on the rear of the tractor.

We highly recommend testing out a mower on your tractor before you buy it.  You should be able to lift the mower with the front end of the tractor firmly on the ground.

You can add weights to the front of the tractor, but it is better to buy the right mower. 

You will also want to attach your mower as close to the tractor as possible and practical.  The closer to the rear wheels the mower is --- the less leverage it will have and the lighter the mower will feel.

There are many brands of mowers.  All have different designs and weights.  Howse brand mowers are lighter weight mowers that work well with the compact Yanmar tractor.  Modern Manufacturing mowers tend to be very heavy, which is great for extreme durability --- but not so good if you are looking for a lighter weight mower.


If you need any further help or have any questions about mower sizes, or anything else, please contact your dealer, local mechanic, or call us at 602-734-9944.  Please ask about our current new and used tractor supply.

Team Tractor Ranch - #1 Tractor Dealer in Arizona. We sell and service most major brands of tractors including Yanmar, Kubota, John Deere, TYM, Mahindra, Kioti, Case, New Holland, Massey Ferguson, Ford, Deutz, Case IH, Farmall, International Harvester, Branson Tractors, LS, Shibura, Claas Tractor, McCormick Tractors, Valtra, Solis, YTO, Montana, and Nortrac.