This Mower Should NOT Exist

Why This Front-Mounted Hydraulic Mower Setup Just Doesn’t Work

What’s Going On with This Mower?

A 72-inch finish mower isn’t anything out of the ordinary—these are commonly found on the back of compact tractors. But in this case, it’s mounted to a front-end loader using a hydraulic motor driven by the tractor’s third function. It’s being marketed on Facebook Marketplace, and while it might seem like a clever solution, there are solid mechanical reasons why this setup just isn’t a good idea.

Why Someone Would Try This Setup

There’s been a big increase in imported implements showing up on sites like Facebook, Amazon, and eBay. With tractors commonly being equipped with front-mounted hydraulics, many operators are looking to run tools like snow blowers and mowers directly off the loader. The appeal is obvious—quick couplers, easy hook-up, and less time wrestling with PTO shafts or mounting brackets. But what works in theory doesn’t always work in the field.

The Power Problem: PTO vs. Hydraulic Flow

Tractors are designed to deliver power in specific ways. The most efficient route is through the rear PTO, which transfers engine power directly to rear-mounted implements. Depending on the tractor, you’ll typically lose only about 10–20% of your engine horsepower by the time it reaches the PTO. But when using a hydraulic motor, power delivery changes completely. Now the engine drives a pump that pressurizes fluid, which is routed through valves and hoses to power the implement. The flow rate (in gallons per minute, or GPM) and system pressure determine how much usable power makes it to the front of the loader. For example:

A small tractor with ~6 GPM at the front loader might only deliver 8.8 horsepower.
Even a larger compact with 10 GPM will only get you around 14 horsepower.

That’s a far cry from the 20–35 horsepower typically available at the PTO—meaning you’re running a large mower with less than half the power it really needs.

Can Any Machine Run This Mower Properly?

Hydraulic-powered attachments are used all the time—on the right machines. Skid steers, compact track loaders, and tool carriers with high-flow hydraulics are built for this. Many can deliver 25–40+ GPM, which translates into real working horsepower for implements like mowers, mulchers, or snow blowers. One exception that might make sense is something like a Bobcat Toolcat. It offers enough flow and the right kind of handling characteristics to run a front-mounted mower like this without tearing up the turf. But it’s a very specific use case—and a Toolcat is far from a common machine.

Why It's a Risky Purchase

This is a classic case of mismatched components. You’ve got a mower designed for high power draw being paired with a system that can’t deliver the needed output. The result? Underpowered performance, possible damage to the mower or tractor, and a poor mowing experience. Even worse, mounting it up front with the wrong equipment can cause safety issues, especially if you're operating on slopes or around tight corners where visibility and control are critical.

The Bottom Line on Loader-Mounted Mowers

Just because you *can* mount a mower to the front of a tractor doesn’t mean you should. When shopping for equipment or building a setup, it’s critical to match horsepower, hydraulic flow, and implement demands properly. A mistake here can lead to wasted money or worse—equipment damage. If you're unsure whether a certain attachment will work with your machine, talk it through with someone who knows the specs and the limits. There's a lot of variety out there, and not every combo makes sense in the real world.

Need Help Choosing the Right Setup?

At Messick’s, we’ve got a knowledgeable sales team and a yard full of equipment to help you make smart choices. Whether you’re shopping for new implements or need parts and service for your current machine, we’re here to help. Reach out at 800-222-3373 or visit us online at messicks.com.