Beltless swingarm mower

Abstract

A multiple mower arrangement for use on a tractor, comprising a principal mower having at least one rotary blade. A power shaft extends approximately the full lateral width of the principal mower, and delivers power to the rotary blades of such mower. A swingarm mower equipped with a rotary blade is hingedly supported by a hollow arm on the outboard end of the principal mower, with the arm being in turn supported by a hollow hinge. A rotary power shaft extends through the arm and hinge, such that rotary power can be effectively transmitted without the use of belts from the power shaft to the blade of the swingarm mower. A bias arrangement normally biases the swingarm mower into an outwardly extending operative position, with such bias being overcome at such time as the swingarm mower contacts a tree, fencepost, or other fixed object, with power being continuously supplied to the blade of the swingarm mower throughout its full range of operating positions. Advantageously, the angle the swingarm mower bears to the principal mower may be readily and selectively adjusted.