John Deere RC8M Rotary Cutter

NOTE: Only for single spindle and multi-spindle.

John Deere rotary cutters lead the way with innovative design, superior performance, and proven durability. Valuable features such as the Double-Decker™ design and Max Flow cutting chamber prevent water and debris from accumulating on the smooth, dome-shaped top deck while the flat bottom deck absorbs the punishment from rocks and stumps.

The top deck stays smooth - no dents, no dings, no holes. The internal supports sandwiched between the top and bottom decks are key to the smooth and structure-free Max Flow cutting chamber, while at the same time provide added strength and durability.

To help promote safe operation, John Deere rotary cutters are equipped with front and rear safety-chain shields. John Deere rotary cutters continue to advance in value with powerful gearboxes, blade holders, and compatibility with a wide range of tractors.

Here are situations when a rotary cutter provides value:

• Clipping pastures encourages grass growth, optimizing valuable pasture acreage.
• Cutting grass and stalks helps control insects.
• Routine cutting keeps weeds from reseeding.
• It is the most cost efficient way to cut roadsides, parks, cemeteries, airport fields, hydro, gas, and telephone easements, and all other types of open properties.
• Cutting grass waterways encourages root development and helps prevent erosion.
• Knocking down stalks such as cotton, corn, or milo speeds up decomposition. This is essential in no-till and minimum-till fields.
• Clearing out brush.
• Control undergrowth and grass in orchards, vineyards, and groves.

Decide what model to use based on:

• The size of the area to mow versus the size of the machine – the bigger the area to mow, the bigger the mower needs to be in order to be efficient during mowing hours. Similarly, the limitation of a small area will guide operators to use a smaller mower.
• The amount of time and frequency it will be used – for longer hours and more frequency, choose a heavier duty machine.
• Tractor compatibility – if there is a tractor the operator will be using, look for the tractor compatibility sheet to identify appropriate options.

John Deere rotary cutters are available in two duty-level categories:

• Mid-duty
  • RC M models are available in 1.5-m (5-ft), 1.8-m (6-ft), 2.1-m (7-ft), 2.5-m (8-ft), and 3.2-m (10-ft).
  • This duty-level category cuts brush up to 50.8 mm (2 in.) in diameter.
• Heavy-duty
  • RC R models are available in 3.2-m (10-ft) and 4.2-m (14-ft).
  • This duty-level category cuts brush up to 76.2 mm (3 in.) in diameter.
  • RC6R is available in 1.8-m (6-ft) and the RC7R is available in 2.1-m (7-ft) cut widths; they cut brush up to 101.6 mm (4 in.) in diameter.

NOTE: R Series are heavier built to cut at a 101.6 mm (4 in.) capacity level more frequently and for longer durations.

Cross-section of patented Double-Decker design

The Double-Decker design provides strength and superior cutting performance while reducing top deck rust. Two welded decks, each 3-mm (1/8-in.) thick, form the upper and lower surfaces of the rotary cutter frame.

Internal stiffeners are sandwiched between the two decks, providing superior strength and rigidity.

The top deck is domed. Water, grass, and crop debris tend to roll off the deck, reducing water buildup and deck rust. The domed shape and smooth profile of the top deck also make the deck easier to clean when trash does build up in adverse conditions.

Unobstructed horizontal bottom deck

The bottom deck is the main defense against rocks and field debris. Therefore, the top deck is continuously protected from impacts and tends to retain its smooth form.

Because the stiffeners are located between the two decks, the underside of the bottom deck is perfectly smooth; there are no structural frame members to interrupt airflow. This improves both cutting performance and distribution.

Standard material flow deflectors help channel the cut material, further improving material distribution.

Rubber element driveline with chain couplers

Rubber element connecting drivelines help absorb the sudden stress of impact loads. Chain couplers are used to maintain the driveline alignment.

Slip-clutch driveline

A non-seize slip clutch used between the primary gearcase and power take-off (PTO) helps protect the driveline. Slip clutches feature a spring-compression adjustment used to ensure clutches are not seized.

Lift-type and semi-mount models feature an ASAE Category 4 driveline for added durability.

Equal-angle driveline

The pull-type model uses an equal-angle driveline for smoother, rattle-free turns.

A lightweight driveline with a lock-slide collar makes it fast and easy to attach.

The driveline provides long lubrication periods; a 50-hour cycle reduces maintenance time, making the cutting operation more efficient.

Front safety chains (RC8M shown)

Rear safety chains (RC8M shown)

Front and rear chain shields are standard equipment:

• Offer protection during operation yet allow uncut material to pass into the cutting chamber with minimal restriction

Round-pan blade holders (stump jumpers) are provided as standard equipment on most John Deere rotary cutter models. Stump jumpers increase the drivetrain reliability by providing protection against impacts such as stumps, rocks, and other obstacles.

Five-year limited gearbox warranty provided on every John Deere rotary cutter

Five-year warranty on all flex-wing gearboxes

Five-year warranty on all rotary cutter gearboxes

John Deere is so confident in the reliability of the gearbox that rotary cutters come with a 5-year limited gearbox warranty.

There is also 1-year warranty on the complete machine, including drivelines, clutches, and many other components.