What's a good step up from Mahindra 3616 TLB?

[moparrob]

I'm considering a switch from small bales to big bales, and my 3616 can't consistently move big bales (3x4x8) as the loader just doesnt have enough oomph. I really like the 3616 aside from this, and I definitely want my next tractor to be a mechanical, tier 3 or less. Aside from the JD110 TLB or Kubota L48, what are some other stronger TLBs I should consider? The 110 is my favorite as I like the construction grade backhoe and creeper controls, but they all seem pretty spendy for a machine that has been out of production for so long, and many of them are used up by contractors.

 

[mike69440]

I find it really hard to believe you cant pick up 3 X 4 X 8 square bales, as I've picked up 3' x 3' x 8' bales to put in a barn with my Max28 and I know that a Kubota L3901 mangoes to pick those up also using Forks. 3 x 3 x 8 bale is roughly 75% of your bale's weight.
I know if wet they are much heavier, but you should be able to carry 1500 Lb bales with a 3616.

You won't hurt it a bit cranking up the hydraulic pressure 200 lbs/in^2 more than rated. Get a 0-3000 psi guage and fitting from Surplus Center. Using 0.03" thick Stainless washers, set relieve for 2500 psig max. Yours is probably low to start with.

Load those tires and ballast.

PS. L39 TLB is stronger than 3616 but as tippy as a 3616 on soft uneven ground with it's small tires.