Curt
Member
Using a weight frame and loose weights for loader ballast is not something I have seen very much of at TBN. I thought I would relate some of my experiences in case some other rookies were considering this option. I chose weights because my first job with the FEL was a close-in job next to the garage. Not knowing what I was doing was enough without having some big hunk of stuff hanging out behind me. The weights tuck right in, and are quickly out of mind. A lot less to keep track of.
There are pros and cons. The biggest disadvantage is the cost. The frame and weights cost over $400. The weights can serve a double purpose in that, with the FEL off, they can be used on the front frame. That's small comfort when you think you could almost buy a cheap cutter for that much. As an accountant, however, I am getting to the point where I consider it a "sunk cost" and cease to worry about it. The second disadvantage is that the 3PH is disabled, preventing the use of the MMM. Using the mower with FEL attached is very uncomfortable with no ballast. I'm getting better at dropping the FEL before mowing.
For loader work the weights are great. They are easy to mount, and the balance seems perfect to this novice. I was concerned that 350# wouldn't be enough, but it seems plenty so far (for a 48" bucket). I think the way they mount makes the weight more effective. In use one doesn't even know they are there. They hold tight with no rattling.
The frame is a triangular affair that mounts on the bottom arms, and replaces the top link. Once it is mounted the 3PH is locked in float position. The frame rides high and clears the PTO shield. The 25# weights are put on a "L" bracket and a rod passes through all the handholds to hold everything tight and secure. I'm not sure of this, but I would think that shutting down the 3PH would send all the hydraulic power to the FEL. Is this true? I also think the weight, by pulling from further up on the tractor, is magnified. Am I right?
In summary, once the "buyer's remorse" was addressed, I have been very happy with the arrangement. It's a slick, good-looking solution to the ballast quandry, and seems to improve loader operation. Sorry I took so long to make this point.
There are pros and cons. The biggest disadvantage is the cost. The frame and weights cost over $400. The weights can serve a double purpose in that, with the FEL off, they can be used on the front frame. That's small comfort when you think you could almost buy a cheap cutter for that much. As an accountant, however, I am getting to the point where I consider it a "sunk cost" and cease to worry about it. The second disadvantage is that the 3PH is disabled, preventing the use of the MMM. Using the mower with FEL attached is very uncomfortable with no ballast. I'm getting better at dropping the FEL before mowing.
For loader work the weights are great. They are easy to mount, and the balance seems perfect to this novice. I was concerned that 350# wouldn't be enough, but it seems plenty so far (for a 48" bucket). I think the way they mount makes the weight more effective. In use one doesn't even know they are there. They hold tight with no rattling.
The frame is a triangular affair that mounts on the bottom arms, and replaces the top link. Once it is mounted the 3PH is locked in float position. The frame rides high and clears the PTO shield. The 25# weights are put on a "L" bracket and a rod passes through all the handholds to hold everything tight and secure. I'm not sure of this, but I would think that shutting down the 3PH would send all the hydraulic power to the FEL. Is this true? I also think the weight, by pulling from further up on the tractor, is magnified. Am I right?
In summary, once the "buyer's remorse" was addressed, I have been very happy with the arrangement. It's a slick, good-looking solution to the ballast quandry, and seems to improve loader operation. Sorry I took so long to make this point.