Removal Procedures for a Bush Hog Rotary Cutter Blade

About Bush Hog Cutters

• Bush Hog rotary blades use a driveshaft powered by a tractor or other vehicle to drive a gearbox on the cutter deck that turns the blades underneath. These blades range from 4 inches and up, and the number of blades on a cutter deck depends on the Bush Hog model and purpose. A pair or more of wheels on either side of the cutter deck make for easier towing.

Safety

• Park the tractor or other vehicle towing the Bush Hog rotary cutter on a flat and level surface that will give you room to work. A parking lot or driveway is the ideal location for this. Secure the vehicle by shifting the gears into park or neutral. Set the parking brake if present. Remove the key from the ignition.

Cutter Position

• Raise the cutter using a tractor or other lifting mechanism. Once the cutter has been raised, block it into position with chucks or wood blocks. Make sure that the cutter is secure and won't jiggle out of position while you are working, as this could cause injury. Remove any grass or other debris from the top of the cutter deck with a stiff brush.

Blade Loosening

• Look for the blade removal holes located on the top of the cutter deck. They are usually about 1 1/2 inches in width and positioned over the center of the blades. Slip the appropriate size socket -- according to your owner's manual -- over the end of a socket wrench extension. Attach the extension to a socket wrench. Insert the socket through the cutter deck and onto the blade bolt. Turn the socket wrench counterclockwise.