Fuel tank underneath tractor?

[brbob]

I searched but could not find this issue discussed already. I have had my eye on the M5040 for quite some time, and finally got to actually see one in person (but still can't afford it). Everything looked great, but then I noticed the fuel tank underneath the tractor. I've only used ag tractors, so I don't know if this is something more common on other tractors. But, this seems to be a bad idea, even with the (rather thin) skid plate. It sure seems susceptible to being punctured by a large stalk or tree stump.

Does anyone else have a tractor with the tank located underneath the tractor, and if so, has it presented any problems?

 

[Birdhunter1]

I've operated several tractors with teh tank mounted underneath and it hasn't seemed to be a problem, but these were larger ag tractors in the 200 HP+ in open fields with the only obstacle being cornstalk stubble. Think about this, for years ag tractors have been made (under 100 hp) that have fairly low sitting bellies and how often are their oil pans punctured? I really don't see it being a problem and if it does get punctured it's only gonna be fuel lost and you can replace the tank.

 

[JerryG]

Think about this, for years ag tractors have been made (under 100 hp) that have fairly low sitting bellies and how often are their oil pans punctured? I really don't see it being a problem and if it does get punctured it's only gonna be fuel lost and you can replace the tank.

They all should have heavy cast iron oil pans, but they all don't anymore. I'm glad mine does. You don't have to worry about damage.

 

[Soundguy]

I believe there are a few messages inthe archives ( NH area ) about the plastic lower fuel tanks being punctured by a stick.. etc.

Gotta agree on the CI pan. I'd hate to see the stick that would make it thru my N oil pan... and still.. I'm glad my fuel tanks are metal.. and situated high up...

Soundguy

 

[rbargeron]

I agree with your concern that a low-mounted tank is vulnerable - any sheet metal on the bottom of tractors eventually gets remodeled by something. Good design definitely calls for a skid plate of some kind - maybe doesn't need to be stiff like a jacking point, but should be able to deflect small tree stumps, and the general debris of whatever you are working in. A skid plate doesn't need to stay beautiful - can be straightenend now and then.

Tractor design is difficult - especially when the marketing dept. wants a spacious open cab, no muffler in view, big power, low sloping hood etc. etc.
Gotta put the fuel somewhere. If the low tank proves too much trouble, maybe they'll try using the tubing of the loader frame or ROPS.

 

[mjarrels]

I saw a large cab NH tractor yesterday at the gas station setting on a trailer behind a one ton truck... the fuel tank on that tractor looked to be in a horrible location!

mark

 

[Muleskinner]

So far I have not punctured my fuel tank on my M7040 and I do a lot of heavy brush clearing. You just have to be careful. I also worry about the low mounted, basically unprotected, FEL valve assembly.