Description
The Farm-Maxx FDM-185 Drum Mower delivers efficient hay cutting with a 73-inch working width and a straightforward manual folding design. Requiring a minimum of 35 PTO horsepower, this 3-point drum mower is designed for farmers, livestock operations, and hay producers looking to cover more acreage with dependable cutting performance.
Manufactured by Kowalski, the FDM-185 features two cutting drums equipped with six replaceable blades and a durable V-belt drive system. Its wider cutting path provides additional coverage compared with the smaller FDM-165, while the manual folding mechanism offers a simple configuration without hydraulic folding requirements.
Why Choose the Farm-Maxx FDM-185?
Wider 73-Inch Cutting Width
Cover more ground with each pass compared with smaller drum mowers. The 73-inch working width is well suited for hay producers looking to improve mowing efficiency.
Efficient Two-Drum Cutting System
Two high-speed cutting drums equipped with six replaceable blades provide consistent cutting performance for harvesting hay and forage crops.
Simple Manual Folding
The manual folding mechanism allows the mower to be positioned for transport and storage without the need for hydraulic folding controls.
Durable, Serviceable Construction
A reinforced steel frame, V-belt drive system, and accessible replacement blades help keep routine maintenance straightforward throughout the mowing season.
Farm-Maxx FDM-185 Specifications
| Model | FDM-185 |
| Working Width | 73 inches (6'1") |
| Minimum PTO Horsepower | 35 HP |
| PTO Speed | 540 RPM |
| Number of Cutting Drums | 2 |
| Number of Blades | 6 (3 per drum) |
| Cutting Height | 1 1/4" - 1 5/8" |
| Drive System | V-belt drive (4 belts) |
| Folding Mechanism | Manual |
| 3-Point Hitch | Category I / II |
| Replacement Blades | 82501-010-454 |
| Replacement V-Belt Set | 82501-020-452/2 |
| Manufacturer | Kowalski |
| Assembly | Some assembly required |
Product images may vary from the actual equipment supplied.
Compare Farm-Maxx FDM Drum Mowers
Compare Farm-Maxx drum mower models by cutting width, minimum PTO horsepower, and folding configuration to find the right mower for your tractor and operation.
| Model | Width | Min. PTO HP | Fold Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| FDM-135 Mini | 53" | 21 HP | Manual |
| FDM-165 | 66" | 28 HP | Manual |
| FDM-165H | 66" | 28 HP | Hydraulic |
| FDM-185 Currently Viewing | 73" | 35 HP | Manual |
| FDM-185H | 73" | 35 HP | Hydraulic |
| FDM-210H | 83" | 70 HP | Hydraulic |
Tractor weight, 3-point lift capacity, and hitch compatibility should also be considered when selecting a drum mower.
FDM-185 vs. FDM-185H: Which Should You Choose?
Both the FDM-185 and FDM-185H offer a 73-inch cutting width and require a minimum of 35 PTO horsepower. The primary difference between these two models is the folding mechanism used for transport.
The FDM-185 features a manual folding mechanism, making it a practical choice for operators who prefer a simpler setup without hydraulic folding controls.
The FDM-185H features tractor-operated hydraulic folding, providing additional convenience when transitioning between mowing and transport, particularly when frequently moving between fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tractor is needed for the FDM-185?
The FDM-185 requires a minimum of 35 PTO horsepower and a compatible Category I or II 3-point hitch. Verify your tractor's lift capacity and overall compatibility.
How wide does the FDM-185 cut?
The FDM-185 has a 73-inch cutting width, providing additional coverage compared with the 66-inch FDM-165 models.
Does the FDM-185 require hydraulics to fold?
No. The FDM-185 uses a manual folding mechanism. Customers who prefer hydraulic folding should consider the FDM-185H.
What is the cutting height of the FDM-185?
The mower has an adjustable cutting height ranging from 1 1/4 inches to 1 5/8 inches.
What replacement parts does the FDM-185 use?
Replacement cutting blades are part number 82501-010-454. The replacement four-belt set is part number 82501-020-452/2. Contact Styron Ag Parts for parts availability.
Complete Your Hay Equipment Setup
Pair your Farm-Maxx drum mower with the Farm-Maxx FMRB-330 Mini Round Baler for a compact hay harvesting setup.
Need help choosing between manual and hydraulic folding drum mowers? Contact Styron Ag Parts for assistance with tractor compatibility, replacement parts, and model selection.
Reviews
9 Reviews
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Farm-Maxx Drum Mower and Styron Ag
Let me just say that after fighting a sickle bar mower, this thing is a dream cutting hay!! This was the best decision I could have made to cut hay. Now I will say…. the assembly process sucks and the lack of instructions leaves a bit to be desired, but Styron Ag talked me through the whole way. Every time I missed something or messed something up, they were there. I can’t say enough for how helpful they are - I will only buy from them going forward with as wonderful and helpful as they are. Highly recommend these guys and this mower.
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Great mower
Purchased my FDM-185 mower end of 2021 so this is season 4 with it. Mowing: This machine mows perfect, just as expected from any drum mower out there. I used to have a PZ85 and this mower is nothing less than any of those. On my smoother fields the PTO goes just a tat over 540 and I'm zipping around at just over 10MPH making short work getting gras dowm. MAintenance: Changing blades is a breeze, takes me about 2 minutes swapping 6 blades out. Oil changes is a different story as there's no drain plug on the bottom of the reservoir so I bought a 500ml syringe to suck the oil out with. Can't get it all but enough to claim the oil was changed. Belts seem to be holding just fine, still on my 1st set (i do take the pressure off them when done for the season). So far this would be a 5 star rating but.... The bad: Paint, I like my equipment to stay in good shape and look nice and on this mower the paint comes off quite easily and not with little pieces either. Spoke with Matt (1 of the friendliest people you ever going to meet in the AG world) and he confirmed they know it's an issue. The paint is really the only thing "wrong" with the mower, otherwise it would be a 5 star rating as I really am impressed with the performance and how it mows. As long as you keep fresh blades in she will cut for you at an amazing speed. Tip: Buy the 185 or 210 "H" (hydraulic fold) version you will not regret it.
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Jeff
O boy where to start. No assembly instructions or you tube instructions. The seller knows this and told me to build it from the pictures online. I had to buy 2 different size taps for the bolts. Two holes on drive belts to attach the arm do not line up.
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73" Farm-Maxx Drum Mower Model FDM-185
2nd year with this mower and this mower works awesome. I have a couple of smooth fields and will do close to 9mph with an excellent mowing pattern. I had farmers that are on the old haybines come look at me zipping through the field and they couldn't believe how it mows. Only downside on this mower is you have to take the PTO shaft off everytime you put in in transport. That's the only reason for a 4 star rating and not 5. But looking at how it mows it should get at least 6 or 7 star rating.
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Excellent Mower, Durable, Great Price
This is our 2nd 185 we decided to add to our farm. This thing is a beast. Mat was awesome and he shipped our order the next day. Styron Ag has one the best customer service I've encountered in this industry. Thanks again!
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Drum Mower
This is an excellent machine. Ive had a few different drum mowers and this one by far is my favorite. Not to mention the price is great! Mat was very helpful and was available when we needed him.
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Farm-Maxx Drum Mower
We are so happy to have found Styron Ag. By far the best experience when purchasing a machine. The shipping was fast and the price was unbeatable. Thank you Mat for all your help!! We will be recommending your business to everyone here in Texas
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Farm-Maxx Drum Mower
Great machine. Highly recommend the farmmaxx drum mower.
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Farm-Maxx Drum Mower
Recently switched from a disc mower to the drum mower! It has been great. I highly recommend the drum mower!
