When it comes to adjusting a bush hog, also known as a rotary cutter, it is important to ensure that it is properly hooked up and leveled. This will help to optimize its performance and ensure an even cut. Many people mistakenly believe that a rotary deck should be level from front to back, but this is not the case. In fact, the front should be set slightly lower than the back, typically by about half an inch to an inch.
The reason for this slight front-to-back slope is to accommodate for the thickness and height of the overgrowth that you will be cutting. By setting the front slightly lower, it allows the blades to make better contact with the vegetation, resulting in a more efficient and effective cut.
To adjust the front-to-back slope of your bush hog, you will need to locate the adjustable skid shoes or wheels. These are typically found on the sides or rear of the rotary deck. Skid shoes are metal plates that can be adjusted up or down, while wheels can be raised or lowered.
Start by positioning the bush hog on a level surface, such as a concrete pad or driveway. This will serve as a reference point for making adjustments. Begin by adjusting the skid shoes or wheels to their highest position. This will allow you to easily access and make changes as needed.
Next, measure the distance from the ground to the front and back of the rotary deck. Adjust the skid shoes or wheels accordingly, lowering the front slightly. As a general guideline, lowering the front by about half an inch to an inch should be sufficient for most cutting conditions. However, you may need to adjust this based on the thickness and height of the vegetation you will be cutting.
After making the initial adjustments, it is important to test the bush hog to ensure it is cutting properly. Take it for a spin in an open area with tall grass or vegetation. Observe how the blades interact with the vegetation and make note of any areas that may require further adjustment.
If you find that the bush hog is not cutting evenly or leaving behind uncut patches, you may need to fine-tune the front-to-back slope. This can be done by making small adjustments to the skid shoes or wheels until the desired cutting performance is achieved.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for your specific bush hog model. These may provide additional recommendations or specifications for adjusting and leveling the rotary cutter.
When adjusting a bush hog, it is essential to set the front slightly lower than the back to accommodate for the thickness and height of the vegetation being cut. This can be achieved by adjusting the skid shoes or wheels on the rotary deck. Regular maintenance and adjustments will help ensure optimal performance and a clean, even cut.
