Update: I bought the Titan forks I referenced above, 48" with short headache rack, and hitch receiver. They are not impressive looking, but they are light, fit perfectly and have worked well.
Regarding carrying the totes. I can fairly confidently carry about 2000 lbs (IBC tote with water) with my backhoe on the tractor. I've recently had a small (300-400 lb?) box blade on the back, however, and the difference is very noticeable. Once I get over 175 gallons of water in the tote I have to switch to 4WD as traction with the rear tires suffers. Needless to say, this is disconcerting, and I've been sticking to 150 gallon loads until I put the backhoe back on. The experience has really helped me to understand the weight distribution considerations in operating a tractor.
Regarding carrying the totes. I can fairly confidently carry about 2000 lbs (IBC tote with water) with my backhoe on the tractor. I've recently had a small (300-400 lb?) box blade on the back, however, and the difference is very noticeable. Once I get over 175 gallons of water in the tote I have to switch to 4WD as traction with the rear tires suffers. Needless to say, this is disconcerting, and I've been sticking to 150 gallon loads until I put the backhoe back on. The experience has really helped me to understand the weight distribution considerations in operating a tractor.
