Newbie terror, need experienced advice

[Big Barn]

A backhoe is not a good choice for ballast, especially for a newbie. They are usually more weight than needed and can get you in a lot of trouble real quick. .

Agreed

 

[i7win7]

DO NOT buy ericm979's ballast box, it's on clearance for a reason - it's not quick hitch compatible, this one is
Ballast Box 3 Point Category 1 Tractor Attachment | Quick Hitch Compatible | Titan Attachments

If you load it up, it will be heavy and hard to connect when needed. You will want to make a "parking stand" for it to raise it off the ground and make it easier to hook up. This can be as simple as cement or wooden blocks in front of a tree or something that can be moved around.



This is the non QH compatible box, bought it off Amazon. The top link needed to be lower and moved forward. Since I lack welding skills, I'm happy with my mod.

Here are some of my other implement mods
Ideas to make implements QH compatible | OrangeTractorTalks - Everything Kubota

 

[Thomas]

If in doubt use stone boat or drag the rock if you can.

 

[JC-jetro]

This is the counter weight I made during building my new house. I build a box as pictured and had them dump leftover concrete in there rather on the site. It is about 1000 lbs and it is nice and compact and close to the rear so it make turning and backing out a bit safer. Like everyone said, never lift for more than you need for travel and higher if needed only when tractor is stopped.

 

[shooterdon]

Small tractors and large rocks do not play well. You are smart to be wary. I am careful lifting even 2000 lbs with my tractor and it weighs 4500 lbs, has loaded oversize turfs, and over 800 lbs of counter weight on the carry all.

Just looked up your specs. Your tractor is half the weight with half the FEL capacity. A rock 2x2x3 is way too large for you to handle safely...it will weigh about 2000 lbs.

 

[airbiscuit]

A box blade gives you weight and an implement you can use for various tasks.

 

[Deepdrop]

Well, I learned a lot today, and I'm still alive. So, overall a good day!
Thank you all again for the advice, and for the product or DIY recommendations. I'm going to look into getting a box blade and I'm also going to either buy or make a ballast box. It depends upon whether I can find a construction site with some extra cement to dump!
Take care everybody. And feel free to add comments or PM me if you have other suggestions or advice on the box blade use.
I really appreciate the kindness of you all.

 

[dodge man]

Just my opinion, but if your tractor will pick it up, it is ok to move it if you have enough counter weight. This assumes some basic safety rules, like flat ground, keep the load low etc.

 

[Jstpssng]

Mixing your own concrete is inexpensive and easy. Knock a box together from scrap lumber, put a strategically located pipe of sufficient diameter to slide a drawbar through, and a vertical flat bar protruding from the top to attach a top link bracket. Go to any hardware store and you can pick up premix for under $4 for a 60 lb bag... in the long run probably cheaper than chasing around at construction sites.

 

[Diggin It]

OK, that makes sense. As an aside, I think it's a shame that these lessons are learned the hard way. I'm not trying to avoid my own responsibility to educate myself. but there is only so much you can learn watching youtube videos. I think there should be some responsibility for dealers to offer safety information. I

Stay off the 'tube. Most of it is made by idiots. (Hey Bubba, lookit this .... and hold muh beer!!!)


Check your owner's manual. It's very clearly discussed in mine.

As noted, a backhoe is for digging, not for a counterweight. It's too high and long and can create more of an issue. I don't have use for a back or box blade, but I do for a tiller, which adds weight and keeps it low and close to the tractor.

Keep in mind that frequent excess weight on the front, not properly counterbalanced can break expensive front axle parts.