5050E front weights necessary?

   / 5050E front weights necessary? #1  

Aaron-G

New member
Joined
Jul 31, 2025
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2
Tractor
John Deere 5050E
I am wondering if I need to add front weights to a JD 5050E (2wd, no loader) to pull anything. I understand that the max weight on the 3pt hitch is 3200lbs, but what is the weight at which the front wheels might start to lift?

I’m interested in mowing hay with an R200 disc mower (1000lbs.). Is the 5050E heavy enough on its own to run a mower like that, or would I need to add front weights?

Thanks,
Aaron in NH
 
   / 5050E front weights necessary? #2  
I am wondering if I need to add front weights to a JD 5050E (2wd, no loader) to pull anything. I understand that the max weight on the 3pt hitch is 3200lbs, but what is the weight at which the front wheels might start to lift?

I’m interested in mowing hay with an R200 disc mower (1000lbs.). Is the 5050E heavy enough on its own to run a mower like that, or would I need to add front weights?

Thanks,
Aaron in NH
Prolly depends on the hitch weight. If hitch weight is high, you’ll need front weights for proper steering.
If hitch weight is light, rear wheel weights might be needed to improve traction on a 4x2.

I’m assuming the disc mower is 3 point mounted? That would be pure hitch weight. You’ll need some front weight if the steering feels light.
If it’s a pull type on tires, then the hitch weight would be very minimal.
 
Last edited:
   / 5050E front weights necessary?
  • Thread Starter
#3  
Does anyone know the John Deere implement code for ballast for the R200 disc mower? (Or any R-series disc mowers)
 
   / 5050E front weights necessary? #4  
Aaron-G
Welcome to TBN
Do you already have the front weight bracket ??
If so, just learn what is needed and add weights as needed.

If not, start with getting the weight bracket. ;);)
 
   / 5050E front weights necessary? #5  
It'll also depend on how far back the weight is situated. Some implements, like a 3 point hitch mounted bush hog, puts a lot of weight 6 or 8 feet back from the ends of the lift arms. It's not just the weight, but where it's located.
Other than if money is an issue, front weights are a good addition.
 
   / 5050E front weights necessary? #6  
This D200 is an offset disk mower. I would be adding front weights and loading the rear tires and adding rear wheel weights if it was me. You never know when you are going to go down the road and trim a ditch
 
   / 5050E front weights necessary? #7  
If have loader and bucket on should be good. If no loader add weight bracket and four suitcase weights should fix you up. Had this set up on a 2WD 5105 and no issues running MX6 cutter and lifting 8’ 3PT disk. Was able to remove suitcase weights when added loader to tractor. Wound up fabricating a box and moving the weights to a Ford 4000 that was always light in front end. Now rock solid and can load on trailer up ramps without lifting front tires.
 

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