John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter Review: Specs, Performance & Ownership Tips

Overview of the John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter

The John Deere 506 rotary cutter is a heavy-duty, rear-mounted implement that is designed for landowners and professional operators who need to mow large areas of grass and vegetation. This rotary cutter features a 60-inch cutting width and rugged components that provide excellent performance and durability when mowing fields, pastures, roadsides, and other properties.

Design and Key Features of the John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter

The John Deere 506 rotary cutter has a three-blade design with heat-treated alloy steel blades that deliver a consistent, clean cut. The 60-inch cutting width allows operators to cover more ground in less time compared to smaller rotary cutters. John Deere equipped this model with a fully-welded deck and thick steel gears in the enclosed oil bath gearbox for lasting strength and reliability.

Some of the key features of the John Deere 506 rotary cutter include:

• 60-inch cutting width with three 25.5-inch blades
• Enclosed oil bath gearbox with thick spur gears
• Greaseable A-frame hitch with multiple attachment options
• Adjustable skid shoes to set cutting height from 2 to 12 inches
• Rugged tailwheel with replaceable bearing
• Shear bolt driveline protection
• Stamped and welded deck with rounded corners
• Helical deck gearbox for quiet operation

This combination of a wide cutting deck, robust construction, and easy adjustments gives landowners the mowing power and versatility needed for large properties and frequent use. The hitch accommodates category 1 and 2 three-point hitches for compatibility with all types of tractors.

Mowing Performance of the John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter

The 60-inch cutting width and three blades give the John Deere 506 impressive mowing productivity. With its medium-duty gearbox, this model delivers a cutting capacity of around 3 acres per hour. The clean cut provided by the heat-treated blades gives a professional, finished appearance.

This rotary cutter handles grass up to 10 feet high with a custom cutting height range from 2 to 12 inches. The adjustable skid shoes glide smoothly over uneven terrain to hold the precise cut height. With 25 horsepower or more, the 506 makes quick work of thick grass and dense vegetation.

Additional highlights relating to the John Deere 506's mowing performance include:

• Clean cutting action chops grass, weeds, and brush for an evenly mown finish
• Welded deck and rounded corners prevent debris buildup
• Shear bolt driveline protects gearbox if an obstruction is hit
• Medium-duty 42 HP gearbox for mowing up to 10 feet high and 3 acres per hour
• 25.5-inch blades optimize airflow and lift for a precise cut

With its durability and wide cutting swath, the 506 rotary cutter works efficiently in all types of rough terrain and vegetation. The mowing results make it well-suited for roadsides, pastures, vacant lots, and other large areas.

Maintenance Tips for the John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter

To keep a John Deere 506 rotary cutter performing at its best, operators should follow these recommended maintenance practices:

• Check gearbox oil level before each use and top off as needed
• Change gearbox oil after first 50 hours then every 100 hours of operation
• Grease A-frame pivot points and wheel bearings after every 8 hours of use
• Inspect blades regularly and replace any damaged, worn or bent blades
• Check skid shoes and replace if excessively worn
• Remove debris buildup under deck with compressed air or pressure washer
• Check belt tension and adjust to 1/2-inch deflection if loose
• Tighten any loose nuts, bolts, and other hardware

Always follow the maintenance instructions in the operator's manual. Letting the gearbox oil run low or delaying other service can lead to premature failures and downtime. With proper care, the rugged components of the 506 rotary cutter will deliver years of trouble-free mowing productivity.

John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter Specifications

Here are some of the main specifications for the John Deere 506 rotary cutter:

• Cutting Width: 60 inches
• Cutting Height: 2 to 12 inches
• Number of Blades: 3 (25.5 inches long)
• Hitch: Attaches to Category 1 and 2 three-point hitches
• Gearbox: Enclosed oil bath with helical gears
• Driveline: Shear bolt protected
• Deck: 7 gauge welded steel with rounded corners
• Tailwheel: Laminated rubber with sealed ball bearing
• Horsepower Range: 25 to 80 HP
• Approximate Weight: 750 lbs

These specifications show why the John Deere 506 is well-suited for medium-duty mowing applications. With robust construction and a gearbox designed for up to 80 HP tractors, this model provides the durability busy operators need.

Advantages of the John Deere Brand

In addition to the performance of the 506 rotary cutter, there are some overall advantages to choosing John Deere equipment:

• Industry-leading quality, performance, and reliability
• Extensive dealer network provides service and parts support
• Innovative technology improves productivity and ease of use
• Integrated machines work together for complete property care
• Top resale value if trading in for an upgraded model

John Deere has built a reputation for rugged, dependable equipment over many decades. This focus on engineering excellence gives owners the uptime they need during mowing seasons.

Ideal Uses for the John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter

The productivity of the John Deere 506 makes it a great choice for these types of properties and mowing jobs:

• Maintaining grass on large estates, ranches, and horse farms
• Mowing grass and vegetation on the sides of roads and highways
• Keeping vacant lots, fields, and drainage ditches neatly trimmed
• Managing grass and brush around commercial properties and parks
• Cutting grass that is up to 10 feet high or thickly overgrown

With its durability and wide 60-inch cut, the 506 makes quick work of big mowing jobs. The clean cutting action gives a professional, finished cut around properties.

Ownership Tips for the John Deere 506 Rotary Cutter

Here are some helpful tips for new owners of a John Deere 506 rotary cutter:

Break-In Period

After assembling the new cutter, allow a 50 hour break-in period for the gearbox. Run the mower under lighter loads at slower speeds before utilizing full power.

Tractor Pairing

Match the 506 rotary cutter with a tractor that has 25 to 80 horsepower for the best performance. Make sure the tractor has a rear 3-point hitch.

Level Cutting

Adjust the skid shoes evenly to ensure a level cut across the entire width of the deck. Uneven shoes can lead to an irregular cut.

Gearbox Oil

Check the oil level in the gearbox before every use and top it off as needed. Change the oil after the first 50 hours.

Safe Operation

Read the manual and follow all safety practices. Keep guards in place, allow no riders, and watch for objects that could be thrown from the deck.

Regular Maintenance

Follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the operator's manual. Proper care improves performance and lifespan.

Blade Maintenance

Replace bent, damaged, or worn blades in sets to keep the cutter balanced. Sharpen blades regularly for optimal cutting.

Following these tips will help owners get the best performance and longevity out of the rugged John Deere 506 rotary cutter.

FAQs

What is the cutting width on the John Deere 506?

The John Deere 506 rotary cutter has a 60-inch cutting width, making it suitable for mowing large areas efficiently.

What size tractor do I need for the 506 rotary cutter?

John Deere recommends pairing the 506 rotary cutter with a tractor that has 25 to 80 horsepower. The tractor must have a rear 3-point hitch.

How durable is the John Deere 506?

The 506 rotary cutter is built with thick steel gears, a fully welded deck, and other heavy-duty components that allow it to withstand frequent use in rough conditions.

What cutting heights can I adjust the 506 to?

The adjustable skid shoes on the John Deere 506 allow you to set cutting heights ranging from 2 inches to 12 inches.

How often should I change the oil in the 506 gearbox?

John Deere recommends changing the gearbox oil after the first 50 hours of use, then every 100 hours after that.