Tractor size for hay wagon

[ovrszd]

Ok - so for a rule of thumb this is what I'll throw out from experience... Applies to dry grass and dirt. If wet, if gravel, if ground rock hard, be more conservative. Requires good tires more aggressive R-4 (as opposed to the more construction oriented R-4 tires) or R-1 tires.

completely flat ground - tow as much as you want, just count on it taking as long to stop as did too to get to speed.
5% grades - 4/1 non braked vs braked wheels max. This is to hold load back in gear. Hit the brakes and you may slide.
10% grades - 2/1 non braked vs braked wheels max. This is to hold load back in gear. Hit the brakes and you may slide.
20% grades - 1/1 non braked vs braked wheels max. This is to hold load back in gear. Hit the brakes and you may slide.
beyond 20% grade - good luck!

This is what I've learned from pulling various loads in a hilly orchard. Make sure you start at the top of the hill in a gear that will hold the load back without using brakes. I like to use a gear that is on the low side and apply throttle to maintain speed.

Ron, I'd say that's fairly accurate. Only thing I'd add is as conditions worsen plan ahead of the ratio stated above. Any error, even the slightest error, will quickly accelerate into disaster.

 

[gladehound]

Ron, I'd say that's fairly accurate. Only thing I'd add is as conditions worsen plan ahead of the ratio stated above. Any error, even the slightest error, will quickly accelerate into disaster.

Very well said! I've taken that ride before and never want to again :shocked:

 

[2458n]

Okay I have pulled the loaded wagon back to barn, my problem was always pushing the wagon into the bank barn with the slight rise at the entrance. Loaded tires sure would have helped the 8n.

 

[powerscol]

Well I dont recommend this, but check out post #15 here http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/haying/320857-small-hay-grapple-2.html. It s a 23'GN. Its my CT 235 hauling my GN to get hay out of the field. My hay grapple is loaded up front too. I usually only go 3 high, but have gone 4 (7500lbs) which is about 10K with 75lb bales. Trailer is 3500 lbs I think. Yes the tractor is only rated to tow 3K, but the field is flat and I leave the legs just off the ground for safety - they stop quick when they hit the ground. I also plan to hook up the electric breaks sometime soon. I have a spare controller that I am trying to figure out how to wire in. Break hot and ground are easy, but a place to mount out of the way is tough and still reach the manual control. Anyone done that?