Since 2001, the Pro-Max 36 mowing system has been the go-to mower for large scale turfgrass producers. Progressive Turf Equipment is pleased to announce an evolution to the 'front half' of the Pro-Max 36 mowing system: the PM-36.
Responding to customer input, several key changes have been implemented that will enhance operation and reduce long term ownership costs. The Next Generation PM-36 will retain many of the same components and design features that have been field proven on the previous PM-36. It will also share many of the same enhanced features that were recently announced for the Next Generation TD92.
The Next Generation PM-36 is proudly built in North America, and starting in the fall of 2016 it will be available with deck shells that are bolted to the deck frame. The decks shells will be available in either galvanized or painted finishes.
Features may include:
In some locations Producers are faced with deck issues caused by abrasive and or acidic soils. Since 2007 and unique to Progressive's turfgrass mowers, is a deck design where the deck shell is bolted to a separate deck support frame, rather than welded. This allows producers to simply change out the deck shell, years in the future, if required. The Next Generation PM-36 shares this same bolt-on design, reducing long term ownership cost.
- Your choice: Galvanized or Painted Deck Shells
Since 2007, Progressive has offered turfgrass production mowers with heavy-duty, galvanized deck shells. Ideal for producers with farms that have highly acidic soils or where certain fertilizers can accelerate the corrosion of a traditional painted deck.
Incorporated into each new deck frame are heavy spindle mounting plates that are designed to provide additional structural rigidity. The deck shell is now captured between each blade spindle and the mounting plate to control any flexing that may occur. The result is a superior, more accurate cut.
- Heavier Construction = Longer Life
The air flow hoops under the deck shell are a key part of the high quality cut that the Pro Max System is known for. The PM-36 hoops are made of heavier 3/16 plate, adding both increased life and rigidity to the deck.
- Improved Clipping Discharge
Efficient airflow is a key component of the overall design that provides the high quality of cut the PM-36 is known for. With this in mind, the discharge opening of each deck has been made taller, aiding clipping dispersal and reducing the streaming that sometimes occurs when mowing long, wet grass. By revising the discharge opening on the Next Generation PM-36, fanning of the clippings is increased when mowing warm or cool season grasses. See Illustration.
- Now Deck Cleaning Is Easier Than Ever
Cross-contamination between crops is a concern for many producers, but not all producers can justify dedicated mowers for each crop. As cleaning can be time consuming and inefficient, the Next Generation PM-36 deck frames have been designed to minimize 'pockets' where clippings can collect, greatly reducing cleaning time. The rear cross member of each deck has been raised above the deck to provide a large wash-out area (see arrows). The wash-out area is blocked when the belt covers are installed, mimimizing clipping build-up.
