With the hedge cutting season now just around the corner, some farmers and contractors have agreed on deals for new machines and trade-ins and used machines are beginning to appear. Scouting the market early often means a better selection of machines or perhaps those serious about buying might have a word with a dealer about keeping an eye out for a tidy trade which may be coming into stock.
We offer some tips worth considering when buying a used hedge cutter, and some tips in terms of general maintenance which should be carried out before work begins on 1 September.
Before looking at what’s available on the market, it’s important to know your budget and your requirements. Factors such as reach and the size of the tractor on which it will be used often determine what you can and can’t buy.
Like most machines, hedge cutters are available in a wide range of specifications from the most simplistic cable control fixed-arm machines right up to forward reach telescopic machines with electric proportional controls aimed towards the larger scale contractor.
1 First glance
First of all, ask to see the hedge cutter running. This way you will be able to see for yourself if it is running as it should. Most reputable dealers, will have their stock fully checked over and sold on the basis that it is working properly and may be supplied with a warranty. Although it is good peace of mind to see and hear the machine in action, it is not essential if there is already a relationship with the dealer and or the hedge cutter is sold with warranty.
In terms of capabilities and specification, larger high-specification machines seem better value for money. This is largely down to the fact that there are not as many customers in the market for such machines and many would not have a suitable tractor. These larger machines tend to use axle brackets so, if not included, brackets will have to be purchased at an additional cost. The more basic 6/7m machines suited to smaller contractors and farmers tend to be more in demand on the used market.
As with any machine, a lot can be told in a matter of seconds of viewing. Signs of rust, cosmetic damage and/or severely faded paintwork are all strong indications that the machine may have been stored outdoors. If you think this was the case, pay particular attention to the performance of its controls while trialling the machine as the electrics don’t tend to survive well if exposed to rain.
Long periods of outdoor storage can lead to the hydraulic rams pitting or rusting, which can damage seals. Check the solenoid and valve block that everything looks in good condition and was not previously tampered with. 
Before and after you run the machine, you should check that both the gearbox and pump have no visible signs of oil leaks or weeps.
2 Hydraulic pumps and
hydraulics
The hydraulic pump and gearbox are key components in a hedge cutter. Before and after you run the machine, you should check that both the gearbox and pump have no visible signs of oil leaks or weeps. If there are obvious signs that the hydraulic pump has been worked on, such as paint removed of bolts etc, raise the question with the seller as to why.
The oil level of the inside the oil tank should be checked over. As with any gearbox, keep an eye on the quality of the oil also. It should be a clear or golden colour and not milky or black. The latter two would indicate that the oil has been contaminated with water or dirt.
Check the hydraulic hoses and fittings to ensure they are not leaking or perished. When running the machine, work the hydraulic functions and move the rams to their full travel. All rams should hold their position once stopped. If a ram drifts or drops any bit, chances are there is an internal leak. If the ram is not damaged, this shouldn’t be an expensive repair; the ram will just need to be removed and have the seals replaced. 
With telescopic machines, extend the arm out fully and check it thoroughly for wear or damage.
3 Boom and linkages
Depending on the operator, the boom or arm is often an area that receives quite a bit of abuse over its lifetime. Inspect carefully for signs of cracks or previous repairs. If repaired, consider the quality of the repair and what may have been the possible cause. Don’t be afraid to pass up on a machine that doesn’t appear right or may be a little rough. With telescopic machines, extend the arm out fully and check it thoroughly for wear or damage. Liners may be worn and need to be replaced or in the worst-case scenario wear might be present due to friction caused by a lack of grease. Machines with longer reaches are often more prone to cracking or damage.
Assess the condition of all pins and bushings. Pins that have been well greased over their working life will more than likely still be tight and in good condition. If the machine is being trialled, look closely for play in these linkages.
4 Cutter head
The cutting head is the main point of contact with the hedge and is generally subject to the majority of the abuse.
Firstly, examine the rotor for missing flails and or broken hangers. Missing flails or hangers will cause an imbalance in the rotor and cause vibrations.
Inspect the flail hanger for wear – loose flail bolts over time will elongate the holes which could lead the hanger(s) needing to be replaced.
Check both the rotor and roller bearings for play – these will be another cause of unwanted vibrations.
Not only will the vibrations leave the hedge cutter uncomfortable to operate but over time they can cause other problems such as a cracked canopy or cause other components to become loose. A damaged rotor can become unbalanced and will require professional attention to rectify. 
Inspect the flail hanger for wear, loose flail bolts over time will elongate the holes which could lead the hanger(s) needing replaced.
Take into account the condition of the flails. Depending on the type, flails will cost anywhere in the region of €10-€15 each plus VAT excluding bushings and bolts. This adds up to a large sum if the full set needs to be replaced. Ensure the rotor is fitted with matching flails. Different types will have different weights and again cause an imbalance in the rotor.
Check the overall condition of the canopy and ensure rubber flaps front are fitted to prevent/absorb debris from being launched outwards. These inexpensive flaps provide a line of defence and are worth having fitted if not done already.
5 Controls
Regardless of the control type on the machine (cable or electric), all functions should be checked.
Mechanical cables should be moving freely, while electric controls should also be moving smoothly. The life of any controls, especially electronic, is extended through dry storage. Electrical connections which have been exposed to moisture will corrode and stop working. Electrical faults can often be tedious, requiring knowledge and time to resolve. 
Regardless of the control type on the machine (cable or electric), all functions should be worked and ensured are functional.
More farm machinery for sale in Ireland can be found on FarmersMarket.ie Machinery section.
With the hedge cutting season now just around the corner, some farmers and contractors have agreed on deals for new machines and trade-ins and used machines are beginning to appear. Scouting the market early often means a better selection of machines or perhaps those serious about buying might have a word with a dealer about keeping an eye out for a tidy trade which may be coming into stock.
We offer some tips worth considering when buying a used hedge cutter, and some tips in terms of general maintenance which should be carried out before work begins on 1 September.
Before looking at what’s available on the market, it’s important to know your budget and your requirements. Factors such as reach and the size of the tractor on which it will be used often determine what you can and can’t buy.
Like most machines, hedge cutters are available in a wide range of specifications from the most simplistic cable control fixed-arm machines right up to forward reach telescopic machines with electric proportional controls aimed towards the larger scale contractor.
1 First glance
First of all, ask to see the hedge cutter running. This way you will be able to see for yourself if it is running as it should. Most reputable dealers, will have their stock fully checked over and sold on the basis that it is working properly and may be supplied with a warranty. Although it is good peace of mind to see and hear the machine in action, it is not essential if there is already a relationship with the dealer and or the hedge cutter is sold with warranty.
In terms of capabilities and specification, larger high-specification machines seem better value for money. This is largely down to the fact that there are not as many customers in the market for such machines and many would not have a suitable tractor. These larger machines tend to use axle brackets so, if not included, brackets will have to be purchased at an additional cost. The more basic 6/7m machines suited to smaller contractors and farmers tend to be more in demand on the used market.
As with any machine, a lot can be told in a matter of seconds of viewing. Signs of rust, cosmetic damage and/or severely faded paintwork are all strong indications that the machine may have been stored outdoors. If you think this was the case, pay particular attention to the performance of its controls while trialling the machine as the electrics don’t tend to survive well if exposed to rain.
Long periods of outdoor storage can lead to the hydraulic rams pitting or rusting, which can damage seals. Check the solenoid and valve block that everything looks in good condition and was not previously tampered with.
Before and after you run the machine, you should check that both the gearbox and pump have no visible signs of oil leaks or weeps.
2 Hydraulic pumps and
hydraulics
The hydraulic pump and gearbox are key components in a hedge cutter. Before and after you run the machine, you should check that both the gearbox and pump have no visible signs of oil leaks or weeps. If there are obvious signs that the hydraulic pump has been worked on, such as paint removed of bolts etc, raise the question with the seller as to why.
The oil level of the inside the oil tank should be checked over. As with any gearbox, keep an eye on the quality of the oil also. It should be a clear or golden colour and not milky or black. The latter two would indicate that the oil has been contaminated with water or dirt.
Check the hydraulic hoses and fittings to ensure they are not leaking or perished. When running the machine, work the hydraulic functions and move the rams to their full travel. All rams should hold their position once stopped. If a ram drifts or drops any bit, chances are there is an internal leak. If the ram is not damaged, this shouldn’t be an expensive repair; the ram will just need to be removed and have the seals replaced.
With telescopic machines, extend the arm out fully and check it thoroughly for wear or damage.
3 Boom and linkages
Depending on the operator, the boom or arm is often an area that receives quite a bit of abuse over its lifetime. Inspect carefully for signs of cracks or previous repairs. If repaired, consider the quality of the repair and what may have been the possible cause. Don’t be afraid to pass up on a machine that doesn’t appear right or may be a little rough. With telescopic machines, extend the arm out fully and check it thoroughly for wear or damage. Liners may be worn and need to be replaced or in the worst-case scenario wear might be present due to friction caused by a lack of grease. Machines with longer reaches are often more prone to cracking or damage.
Assess the condition of all pins and bushings. Pins that have been well greased over their working life will more than likely still be tight and in good condition. If the machine is being trialled, look closely for play in these linkages.
4 Cutter head
The cutting head is the main point of contact with the hedge and is generally subject to the majority of the abuse.
Firstly, examine the rotor for missing flails and or broken hangers. Missing flails or hangers will cause an imbalance in the rotor and cause vibrations.
Inspect the flail hanger for wear – loose flail bolts over time will elongate the holes which could lead the hanger(s) needing to be replaced.
Check both the rotor and roller bearings for play – these will be another cause of unwanted vibrations.
Not only will the vibrations leave the hedge cutter uncomfortable to operate but over time they can cause other problems such as a cracked canopy or cause other components to become loose. A damaged rotor can become unbalanced and will require professional attention to rectify.
Inspect the flail hanger for wear, loose flail bolts over time will elongate the holes which could lead the hanger(s) needing replaced.
Take into account the condition of the flails. Depending on the type, flails will cost anywhere in the region of €10-€15 each plus VAT excluding bushings and bolts. This adds up to a large sum if the full set needs to be replaced. Ensure the rotor is fitted with matching flails. Different types will have different weights and again cause an imbalance in the rotor.
Check the overall condition of the canopy and ensure rubber flaps front are fitted to prevent/absorb debris from being launched outwards. These inexpensive flaps provide a line of defence and are worth having fitted if not done already.
5 Controls
Regardless of the control type on the machine (cable or electric), all functions should be checked.
Mechanical cables should be moving freely, while electric controls should also be moving smoothly. The life of any controls, especially electronic, is extended through dry storage. Electrical connections which have been exposed to moisture will corrode and stop working. Electrical faults can often be tedious, requiring knowledge and time to resolve.
Regardless of the control type on the machine (cable or electric), all functions should be worked and ensured are functional.
More farm machinery for sale in Ireland can be found on FarmersMarket.ie Machinery section.
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