3pt weight box

[MFIHman]

Well, technically the rear ballast counters the weight of both the load AND the loader. But - since the loader mounting points move the fulcrum to the middle of the tractor - it's not a pound for pound ratio. And this will change between/among tractor-loader combinations. My own tractor and loader manuals deal extensively with ballast. So for what it's worth, I think those with questions about ballast should start with their own manufacturer recommendations.

//greg//

My understanding is the goal is to counter the center of gravity(CG) shift. As the weight on the FEL increases, the CG moves toward the front wheels. This increases wear on the front axle and steering effort, while the lack of weight on the rear causes traction loss. Roughly equal weight to the load would help center the CG (if distance is the same to the FEL and to the weight box).

More weight could help steering effort and rear wheel traction, but the manufacturer limits prevent excess stress on other tractor parts (like the frame). Excess weight in the box could reduce steering control.

 

[greg_g]

Over-thinking must be contagious. The point remains; the geometry of tractor/loader combinations varies by make/model. I know specifically about my JD3720 tractor and JD300X loader from studying the respective owner manuals. Thus I can only speak in generalities about your MF and unknown loader. My advice remains to consult your own manuals regarding ballast.

//greg//

 

[Deere Dude]

Don't any of you folks have - rocks???? Man, I got s pile of rocks taller than me, must cover 50 x 50 area, actually have 2 other piles of rock. Just use rocks. Simple, easy, free.

I know, not every place has rocks, but most of my youth was spent collecting those rocks to make that pile.... Now wife & I tool around in spring and load up the Polaris Ranger until it squats, and bring load after load back to the pile.

--->Paul

You would be surprised how much concrete you can get in a weight-bow even with rocks thrown in. I use rocks for fill but there will be almost double the weight just from concrete filling the voids.

 

[Jamming]

Made my own, welded 3 point frame, formed it in with plywood and used concrete cloth to hold it together. My tractor is smaller but could be done for any size.