Ballast tire ballast in subcompact tractor

[Johnny_B]

Hello all, I'm new here and have really enjoyed this website. It has been very informative while trying to shop around for my first new subcompact (but I'm starting to lean heavily towards the GC2410).

I know a lot of the larger tractors use some type of tire weights or ballast, but what type (if any) of tire ballast do you use in your subcompacts (GC2300 through GC2610). Local dealer recommended windshield washer fluid, and I've also read about a few proprietary products made specifically for this. Do you use the fluid in all 4 wheels or just the rear?

Anyone using steel wheel weights on the rear? I have access to some steel cylinders (about 75-80 pounds each) that will just about fit perfectly in the rear wheel, but if I do this, should I also consider putting weight (i.e., washer fluid) in the front tires?

 

[LBrown59]

Hello all, I'm new here and have really enjoyed this website. It has been very informative while trying to shop around for my first new subcompact (but I'm starting to lean heavily towards the GC2410).

I know a lot of the larger tractors use some type of tire weights or ballast, but what type (if any) of tire ballast do you use in your subcompacts (GC2300 through GC2610). Local dealer recommended windshield washer fluid, and I've also read about a few proprietary products made specifically for this. Do you use the fluid in all 4 wheels or just the rear?

Anyone using steel wheel weights on the rear? I have access to some steel cylinders (about 75-80 pounds each) that will just about fit perfectly in the rear wheel, but if I do this, should I also consider putting weight (i.e., washer fluid) in the front tires?

I have the same type tractor in a Kubota BX23.
I use the BH and the loader for ballast and don't need fluid filled tires or wheel weights.

 

[NuBota]

My dealer automatically added the liquid ballast - I didn't know it when I got the BX24 - found out when I went to add air - I think it has saved me many times from tipping. I asked them about it and they said they use Rim Guard (not sure how to verify).

Do a search on "loaded tires"- I have seen Rim Guard, washer fluid, Calcium Chloride (I think), anti-freeze as some of the options - lots of good info already at hand

The decision will be based on weight (per volume,) corrosion, feelings on hazmat handling (like if you get a puncture), tubed or tubeless (might not make a difference), and, of course, cost. If your mowing, and have golf course lawn (I don't) the weight may cause problems if the form of extra compaction and/or ruts

No expert here - but I researched it before I realized I already had it. I have steep hills. Others can give better advice, but I am glad I have it.

 

[DougM]

I have a GC 2310 and I had the front tires foum loaded and use round steel wieghts
inside the Rear wheel hubs.
Loaded the front tires to stop leaking and flats as some times using the front end
loader u can get the front tires in to some bad area's

DougM

 

[Rob2310]

I have always used alcohol (methanol) in my tires without problems

 

[burtalm]

I had rim Guard in the tires of my first cut and will have it on my second cut. Can't be without ballast with a fel and my choice is rim guard. I wouldn't be without it.

 

[Travelover]

Agree with recommendation to do a search - lots of discussions on this in the past. I ended up using windshield washer fluid - it was on sale at Wally World not long ago for close to a buck a gallon.

 

[1972SprintConvertible]

How much washer fluid did you put in your tires (26x12x12)?

 

[Johnny_B]

If you haven't figured out the ammount of WW fluid to add, check out this link for fluid volumes:

Liquid Tire Ballast

 

[pathman]

So excuse my ignorance, but this is the first time I heard ofputting washer fluid in the tires for weight. I think I just might try it this winter. I want to know if when you fill your tire to about 80% I guess through the valve, do you have to add air afterwards???