Recent content by Branson Bob

Hi Omega. I have the new steering cylinder in hand and was going to do the replacement this weekend per "the Aquamoose method." I'll be sure to remember about the reverse threading! 😄 The Amazon link you provided for the M16 bolts took me to a listing for hook bolts... you didn't use hook bolts...

To the bolded, viscosity breakdown will lead to louder clacking so I don't think your ears are playing tricks on you. On a related note, isn't it funny how good an oil change makes us feel? :)

I have the standard Piranha. It works great and I never take it off. I'm unconvinced of the value of the straight edge. I still backdrag and smooth with the standard one and the teeth don't have a detrimental effect when doing so. I'm curious to know the rational/justification for the straight...

Very nice installation. The flow restrictors are to make the pistons less jerky?

In the interim here's an excellent video that discusses in great detail the conversation we're having about the physics of 1) rear ballast, 2) rear wheel ballast (weights or Rim Guard), and 3) FEL payload. It's a simple engineering discussion known as a "beam analysis." The video starts with...

I believe once the rear wheels touch down that the center of mass starts moving to the rear of the front axle. But rather than debate it, I'll ask an engineer I know how he sees it.

I am not an engineer but I believe it depends on where the center of mass is. I believe your scenarios are only correct in the case where the rear wheels lift off the ground.

Unfortunately it wasn't me but yes, hopefully someone with direct experience can chime in. As always, thanks to Asteral and the community for great feedback.

This discussion is all a matter of degree. 1) The amount of weight on the FEL 2) The amount of weight behind the rear axle 3) How far that weight is behind the rear axle The point remains true regardless of the fulcrum point... when lifting with the FEL, the less weight on the front axle the...

If you click on the drawing it opens... you will see the top and the bottom scenarios.

Yes, my 2016 is the screw type.

I'm not sure I can explain it much clearer. As in the Messick's video if the rear wheels are off the ground the front axle is obviously the fulcrum. Conversely, when the front wheels are off the ground (as they are when I'm carrying a boulder using my pallet forks on my 3 point hitch) then the...

Good question. As you know, the "ideal" weight is a compromise because the material in the FEL varies in weight. Most of the compact utility tractors (CUTs) have a 1/2 yard bucket... about 13 cubic feet. A 1/2 yard of topsoil (depending on moisture) is about 800 lbs. A 1/2 yard of crushed...

Damn Slim, Epically bad morning! Glad that the damage wasn't worse and you have everything back on the level.

I think the most it has accumulated before melting is about the same as you... 6-7" and definitely wet. Over the course of the winter I've had some fallen trees and a few large limbs so once weather permits I'll be doing a fair amount of cleanup too. On the bright side, now that I have the...