Ballast on the Front??

[schole]

Should I add ballast to the front end of my tractor (L3400)?

I have been extremely pleased with the improved performance of my FEL after making Soundguy's concrete ballast for my 3ph.

However, I find that the front end seems to want to rise at even a relatively small load while grading forward with the FEL in the float position leaving only the rear tires on the ground. It sets right down if I lift, of course, but I would like to be able to push on forward with all 4 wheels gripping as I peel up a larger amount of soil with the loader in the float position. This is not an issue if I don't use the float, however, I don't get quite as slick a job on the first pass.

Do you all find that you need a few pounds of removable ballast thrown on the front end too?

Thanks in advance,

Shawn

 

[greg_g]

I'd say it's a matter of clearance. Many FEL equipped tractors don't have enough room behind the FEL to install any removeable weights. Those that still feel they need extra weight, ballast the tires - which of course, is pretty much permanent.

//greg//

 

[schole]

Thanks for the response, Greg.

I guess I was hoping to hear if anyone else has had this experience after adding rear ballast and then considered weighting the front?

Shawn

 

[rambler]

The rear ballast is doing it's job & giving your rear wheels a good bite, which is lifting the fronts up. All your weight is being transfered into grip already.

Please give your tractor a break, and don't break it. I would never want front weights on a tractor with a loader, that poor front axle has enough to do.

--->Paul