HOW MUCH WEIGHT IN A REAR BALLAST BOX FOR JD 650

[mrrog]

This may be a lame question, but I know that one of you for real tractor people will at least send me in the right direction. Is there any kind of chart that will give me an approximation of how much weight to use in a rear ballast box? I have a JD 650 with a loader. Just found an almost new JD CAT.1 ballast box on Craig's list. The loader is the stock 60 loader. I need to move some sand and gravel mix. Pretty heavy stuff. The loader has no problem with a full bucket, but the old 650 is a little tippy with no rear ballast. It's only a 2,000 lb. tractor.
I don't want to overload the rear axels with un-necessary weight. Is this just something that I have to experiment with? Or do I need to know the weight of a bucket load? Or is there some kind of standard formula that for real tractor guys use? Thanks for any help.

 

[George2615]

Usually the owners manual would mention rear ballast required. If the manual is not available you can get the ballast box and fill with sand, gravel, stone, or whatever is available. Not sure what your 3 pt can lift but if the capacity is say 900 lbs try using about 400-500lbs for ballast. You can also use another attachment as ballast like a box blade, rear mower, rake, etc.

 

[mrrog]

Thanks George, After looking at different threads, It would seem that you are spot on. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Fallon]

General rules...

Put as much weight on the 3pt as you plan on lifting or the max lift on your loader.

More weight down low means more stability & traction. Put as much on your 3pt as it is rated for.

The further back the ballast, the less your 3pt can lift, but the more leverage it has to unload the front.

 

[mrrog]

Thanks Fallon, I guess I'll just take everyone's advice and do some trial and error. The problem is that I can't seem to find any actual specs, in print, of the actual capacity or suggested maximum weight limitation of the 3 Pt. hitch system.

 

[jimmysisson]

If you're concerned about carrying a lot of weight on the 3 point you can chain from the link pins up to the tractor end of the top link. Then you can raise it if needed but the chains will hold the weight when lowered. Jim

 

[Fallon]

Keep filling up the ballast box until the 3pt won't lift or the front end does. Then unload it 10-20% or so to back off a bit.

 

[avictor]

Thanks Fallon, I guess I'll just take everyone's advice and do some trial and error. The problem is that I can't seem to find any actual specs, in print, of the actual capacity or suggested maximum weight limitation of the 3 Pt. hitch system.

So (a year later), how much weight did you end up adding to your jd650? Looking to mold a concrete block and the weight won't be adjustable. Thanks!

 

[avictor]

So (a year later), how much weight did you end up adding to your jd650? Looking to mold a concrete block and the weight won't be adjustable. Thanks!

Done. I'm estimating it at between 300-330 lbs. I may liquid fill the tires as well for more traction.

 

[MoArk Willy]

You didn't mention which loader you had but that machine came with a "60" which lifts about 600#. Your weight is right where it should be.