[RootRot]

In line to purchase a new sod cutter. The thread about bed edgers helped a lot and we just purchased the Brown. We rent the sod cutter too often at this point and it is definitely a purchase to be made soon.

I have only used the Blue Bird SC18 but the new Bluebird SC550 looks like it might be the way to go. Salesperson likes the Classen. The Classen is 28 pounds lighter, has three wheels versus 4, but the front wheels are much wider and probably better in rutting situations.

Any other favorites out there?

Any tips, advice, experience will certainly help. Thanks all.

[VoodooChile]

I've used the Brown and it sucked. We actually chained somebody to the front of it to get it to move on one job!

The Bluebird SC16 is what I own, and use often. Besides blowing a couple belts, snapping a weld on the handle (yesterday!), and replacing the blade once, it has been hassle free.

I would definitely demo whatever you buy.

Good Luck!

[GLAN]

we own a Ryan sod cutter....

http://www.ryanturf.com/products/sod_cutters/jr/


May even want to look into http://www.turfco.com/parts/show_pro...l?category=512

[dan deutekom]

We use Ryan. It is going on 20 years of hard use and it is still going strong with only the belt needing to be changed every year or so.

[RootRot]

The Ryan and the Classen spec pretty close to eachother and look about the same in appearance. I think the wider knobbed wheels at the front on both the Classen and the Ryan should prevent sinking into soft ground better. I am going to demo the Ryan at a local rental shop today. Can't find a Classen to rent. Thanks.

[Hamons]

I bought a 25 year old ryan about 5 years ago at an auction for $40. Have been looking for a reason to replace it ever since and haven't been able to.

[Tim C.]

I have had a Ryan for four years and have not had any problems with it. But, I have also used a bluebird and liked the fact it has more than one forward speed and also has a reverse. It seems to me like it is more user friendly and the like sod cutter I get will probably be a Blue Bird.

[GLAN]

Can adjust speed on the Ryan with the Throttle.......I rarely operate it at full throttle.