Abstract: Guard structure for the forward portion of a rotary cutter including a front sill with a formed angle section that is permanently attached to the cutter to provide both protection from the rotary blade and structure for hanging chain links across the width of the front opening to restrict material from being thrown from the front of the cutter. In addition, the angle section strengthens the forward portion of the cutter.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting upstanding agricultural crops includes a plurality of adjacent dynamically balanced rotary cutter assemblies each having diametrically opposed blades the outer tips of which are at unequal distances from the rotary axis, corresponding blades on adjacent rotary assemblies being substantially 180.degree. out of phase.

Abstract: In a rotary cutter having counterrotating rotors, deflectors positioned on the side frame housing for directing some of the cut material downwardly, rather than towards the center of the machine, to create a uniform discharge pattern across the width of the machine.

Abstract: An agricultural implement for operation over the ground beneath the low-hanging branches of trees in an orchard is equipped with shield means effective to prevent or minimize injury to the branches and fruit borne thereby. The inventive feature is the provision of a wheel support and ground-engaging wheel capable of adjustment relative to the main body of the implement, together with a fender carried by the wheel support independently of the main body and a shield member carried by the body and overlying the fender so as to cover the gap between the fender and body irrespective of adjustment of the wheel, wheel support and fender.

Abstract: A rotary mower shielding structure is provided for utilization in bedded row crops. The shielding structure is carried at the forward edge of the mower and has uniquely shaped openings compatibly spaced for row crops. The openings are designed to guide and support the row crop as it enters the cutting chamber of the mower to assure severing of the stalk near the crest of the bed. The shielding structure depends rearwardly and guides the stalk until contact with the blade, yet terminates forwardly of the blade to avoid interference when obstacles strike the shielding structure. Rigid material forms the structure to contain the severed stalks within the cutting chamber and assure thorough shredding.