Ballast ?

   / Ballast ? #11  
I don't think you'll need extra weight beyond just the loader. Loaders are convenient front weight because they're already on the tractor in most cases, but as Richard mentioned, it's nicer to do 3 point work without the loader mounted. It's very easy to remove it, and it makes the tractor much more nimble and pleasurable to operate. Suitcase weights can be added if you need help keeping the front end down. Unfortunately suitcase weights are stupid expensive. You can fab something up to do the same job, if you like.

If you'll be doing lots of work with the seeder, consider dropping the loader and getting some weights. If it's only a little use, just leave the loader on there and get 'er done. One other thing to try is leaving the loader on but dropping the bucket. Due to laziness, this is my most used configuration. I get better maneuverability than with the bucket, but don't spend as much time dinking around with the loader.
 
   / Ballast ? #12  
Your new tractor's manual should have a "not over" number for implement counterweight, and your loader's manual should have a "not over" number for loader counterweight.

Bruce
 
   / Ballast ? #13  
Here's a TBN Original thought ..... Get a grapple! They weigh more than buckets!

625 lbs. and 980 lbs.

ImageUploadedByTractorByNet1459822160.579515.jpg

 
   / Ballast ? #14  
We don't know how far back from the rear axle that 1300lb drill's center of gravity is compared to the center of gravity of that 2700 pound tractor.
If the distance is twice as far (or even close to that) you want front ballast. If you can (too easily) pop wheelies, you need ballast. As long as you don't knock out fence posts why not leave it on for counter weight or add dirt if front is lite. Keep it low if you have hills.
 
   / Ballast ?
  • Thread Starter
#15  
Here's a TBN Original thought ..... Get a grapple! They weigh more than buckets!

625 lbs. and 980 lbs.

View attachment 463558


Ha ha .. I often thought over the past couple of weeks.... A grapple would be nice at times.... but it would be like trying to shovel snow with a pitch fork in our brutal Central New York winters! :)
 
   / Ballast ? #16  
Ha ha .. I often thought over the past couple of weeks.... A grapple would be nice at times.... but it would be like trying to shovel snow with a pitch fork in our brutal Central New York winters! :)

Well, you can't have only a grapple. Obviously you'll need a grapple, your regular bucket with a tooth bar, a light materials bucket for mulch and firewood, a snow pusher or plow blade, and pallet forks. Better add a stump bucket too.:D
 
   / Ballast ? #17  
Rick. Thanks for the advice. I'll tell the dealer to only load the rear tires.

Mysfyt... how much in wheel weights would you add to the machine I'm buying. The tractor's weight is aprox 2700 lbs w/o loader (which I'm getting, it will be put on at the dealership or factory). I'm not sure how much the FEL weighs....the the gross wight will be 2700 lbs + loaded rear tires + the weight of the FEL.

Thanks guys!

Here are a couple of pictures of the wheel weights that I made. You may not need to add this much for FEL work, but for grapple work it just made things operate so much smoother. Just love this tractor, BTW.
 

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   / Ballast ? #18  
Here are a couple of pictures of the wheel weights that I made. You may not need to add this much for FEL work, but for grapple work it just made things operate so much smoother. Just love this tractor, BTW.

Those look very nice!
 
   / Ballast ? #19  
Yes they do. Steel plates?
 

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