If you need a mower to run behind your compact tractor the
options are quite confusing. We are often asked at
Masterco Compact Tractors “What is the
difference between a flail mower, topper or finishing mower”.
The answer is they all do a different job and if you tell us
what you are planning to cut we can tell you what is right!
To start with. : The topper mower is the classic Farmers
mower. They have been used for many years to do as the name suggests - take the
“Top” grass off only. They are ideal for cutting pasture after grazing as they
will remove quickly the ungrazed grass and weeds. Toppers can cut long grass,
brambles, nettles, docks etc. They are
robust and can be used in the higher gear ranges on a tractor. Good topping will control weeds by cutting
off the growing tips of weeds and the seed heads. Topping grass will also stimulate good re-growth
and will ensure more fleshy leaves and increased grazing.
Topper mowers usually have a single large rotary blade. Some
use a chain but they are not as common now. Blades are replaceable but usually
give many years use. Cut height is controlled by skids which can be raised or
lowered as needed. Some Toppers are fitted with wheels. Its worth noting that
the single rear-wheel type are not great to use as the cut height varies on
uneven ground. The only real advantage of these toppers is that if you need to
turn tightly on wet ground the wheel avoids marking the ground, but for most
paddocks this is not a problem.
Toppers are supplied with a PTO shaft with shear bolt
protection. They require a 540 PTO drive and most 4 or 5ft machines are
category 1 linkage.
In short : Toppers are robust, can be used in higher gears
and do not require high Horsepower to run them.
The next article will focus on the Flail mower, but feel free to contact Masterco Compact Tractors if
you need any help or advice
