mattm55
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- Mar 6, 2017
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I recently purchased a used Classic Cyclone Rake for my older 28" RER Snapper. I had done searches but really didn't find anything specifically on how the RER and Cyclone Rake would work. Maybe I missed it in my search? Anyways, here is my experience for anyone looking to purchase and not sure if it is a good investment.
For me, the used rakes sell really quick around here (~ a few hours on CL) so if it doesn't work, I can turn it around and probably make a small profit.
RER Background:
- 1980's Snapper 28" RER with a new Honda GV390 (~12HP repowered from Briggs)
- rebuilt Snapper and did the drive disc mod with direct bolt attachment and extra gears to make commercial model
Cyclone Rake Classic (used)
- B&S Vanguard 6.5HP
- est weight (~45lbs=motor, ~80lbs unit, misc ~25lbs (i.e., chute, hose,...)
Attachment;
Attachment was pretty easy as I used the original Snapper discharge chute and the Cyclone Rake plastic coupler to hose. Both are 8" so slipping over chute was enough to hold. I will add pics of my attachment process after I reassemble rake and mower again.
The "L" mount I attached to the mowers back plate with 3 - 3/8"x1.5" bolts and nylocks. I reinforced behind the mowers plate with a 14"x3"x1/2" aluminum bar I had. The rake actually rotates with the mower by 2 point attachment. It's not like a regular tow behind that pivots on one point.
First Test Run:
OK. I wasn't sure the RER would pull the rake or just slip. It actually pulls the empty rake no problem. I ran the test run filling up the "bag" about half way with dry leaves and some grass.
However, the downside is that the RER front end gets very light. Yes, it will turn but quick turns are like driving in snow where its takes a few seconds to bite and turn. Gradual steering is recommended with sweeping turns. I have pretty flat property but hills could be problematic or downright dangerous. ***Going sideways on a hill, with loaded rake could drag you down hill and flip you over!! I would say that for any mower with the CR or with any bagger really.
Conclusion:
I think the rake will be a better option than the Snapper bagger as that required hundreds of trips to the "pile" where the rake will cut that down by 80%-90%. I'd say 15-20 trips:1 trip ratio but thats a guess. The Cyclone minces the leaves even smaller than the Snapper hi-lift blade does. I think I will be replacing my drive disc more often as time will tell. A small price to pay. As for the quality of the Cyclone Rake. The build and design quality are well thought out. Replacement parts are available and it assembles/disassembles fast for storage. I would have definitely bought one on sale for $1399 if I had the information above to at least say it might work for RER's. Yes, pics are coming once I have it assembled again on the mower and ready for leaf pickup. If you call them, CR, as I did last year, they were very honest and said they did not recommend the rake for my small Snapper RER.
BTW, I am in no way affiliated with Woodland Power Products or received any $$$ for this review.
For me, the used rakes sell really quick around here (~ a few hours on CL) so if it doesn't work, I can turn it around and probably make a small profit.
RER Background:
- 1980's Snapper 28" RER with a new Honda GV390 (~12HP repowered from Briggs)
- rebuilt Snapper and did the drive disc mod with direct bolt attachment and extra gears to make commercial model
Cyclone Rake Classic (used)
- B&S Vanguard 6.5HP
- est weight (~45lbs=motor, ~80lbs unit, misc ~25lbs (i.e., chute, hose,...)
Attachment;
Attachment was pretty easy as I used the original Snapper discharge chute and the Cyclone Rake plastic coupler to hose. Both are 8" so slipping over chute was enough to hold. I will add pics of my attachment process after I reassemble rake and mower again.
The "L" mount I attached to the mowers back plate with 3 - 3/8"x1.5" bolts and nylocks. I reinforced behind the mowers plate with a 14"x3"x1/2" aluminum bar I had. The rake actually rotates with the mower by 2 point attachment. It's not like a regular tow behind that pivots on one point.
First Test Run:
OK. I wasn't sure the RER would pull the rake or just slip. It actually pulls the empty rake no problem. I ran the test run filling up the "bag" about half way with dry leaves and some grass.
However, the downside is that the RER front end gets very light. Yes, it will turn but quick turns are like driving in snow where its takes a few seconds to bite and turn. Gradual steering is recommended with sweeping turns. I have pretty flat property but hills could be problematic or downright dangerous. ***Going sideways on a hill, with loaded rake could drag you down hill and flip you over!! I would say that for any mower with the CR or with any bagger really.
Conclusion:
I think the rake will be a better option than the Snapper bagger as that required hundreds of trips to the "pile" where the rake will cut that down by 80%-90%. I'd say 15-20 trips:1 trip ratio but thats a guess. The Cyclone minces the leaves even smaller than the Snapper hi-lift blade does. I think I will be replacing my drive disc more often as time will tell. A small price to pay. As for the quality of the Cyclone Rake. The build and design quality are well thought out. Replacement parts are available and it assembles/disassembles fast for storage. I would have definitely bought one on sale for $1399 if I had the information above to at least say it might work for RER's. Yes, pics are coming once I have it assembled again on the mower and ready for leaf pickup. If you call them, CR, as I did last year, they were very honest and said they did not recommend the rake for my small Snapper RER.
BTW, I am in no way affiliated with Woodland Power Products or received any $$$ for this review.
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