|
Look for: type of drive; chain vs gear. I happen to prefer chain drive, I think they have a little more give, and are significantly less expensive to repair if neccesary. Multi speed gear box: nice to have, more expensive. Some require removal of plate and actually switching gears, not real fast. If your tractor has a 540/1000 rpm pto this multi speed is probably not neccesary. Weight is probably as important to me as anything. JDs are lighter than Kuhn and Howard pretty much out weighs them all. Heavier tillers will work the soil better. I recently bought a used Howard and am very happy. Multi speed box 1000+ lbs. They are a bit pricey new. I looked at new Kuhns, Maschios and JDs. Probably would have gone with the Kuhn new for price/weight and # of tines. Each company has a number of different models, some better than others based on the afore mentioned criteria. I also strongly recommend a tiller you can offset. This will allow you to cover the tracks of the tractor at greater wheel widths without running a tiller too wide for the tractors HP. At 38 Hp I would think you would be in the market for a 4'-5'. If looking at used check carefully for broken welds and leaking seals. Also check tines for wear. If possible hook the unit up to a tractor before you pull out your wallet and at least listen to it run. The queiter the better. Please dont expect more from rotavators than they are capable of. They will not turn a pasture into a groomed seed bed. They will do wonders on plowed and disked ground.
| 
