new Kubota operating Question

[TripleR]

On my small tractors, I like weights, but on the bigger ones I always add fluid.

 

[MarkV]

On my small tractors, I like weights, but on the bigger ones I always add fluid.

I am curious why? I don't think there is anything wrong with wheel weights, I just haven't seen what the advantage is over using liquid ballast. Liquid ballast is sure cheaper. If you have a need to remove the weight do to your applications or your setting is prone to tire punctures, I understand. Other wise what is the advantage?

MarkV

 

[TripleR]

I am curious why? I don't think there is anything wrong with wheel weights, I just haven't seen what the advantage is over using liquid ballast. Liquid ballast is sure cheaper. If you have a need to remove the weight do to your applications or your setting is prone to tire punctures, I understand. Other wise what is the advantage?

MarkV

Couple of factors really.

1. I have lost a lot of fluid over the years due to punctures.

2. I have to call a service truck for the big tractors, but I can remove the little ones and take them to the shop or plug them myself.

I go with fluid in the bigger tractors due to the cost and I mow on a lot of inclines and fluid "seems" to lower COG and help them stick to the ground better.

 

[MarkV]

Couple of factors really.

1. I have lost a lot of fluid over the years due to punctures.

2. I have to call a service truck for the big tractors, but I can remove the little ones and take them to the shop or plug them myself.

I go with fluid in the bigger tractors due to the cost and I mow on a lot of inclines and fluid "seems" to lower COG and help them stick to the ground better.

Well I sure understand that! In my case I have had one of my tractors for 10 years with non-toxic anti-freeze and water in the rears and no leaks. I live in the South so I did it in the drive for little money and little worry of freeze issues. It sure did help with stability in the N. Georgia mountains where I originally bought it to use. We don't have the Locus thorns or sharp rock some on the forum have so punctures haven't been a problem for me. Wheel weights were just so much more expensive I couldn't see the advantage. Guess it is a bit like land, Location, Location,Location, is what you have to look at to decide what is best for you. Inter-net experience is valuable but not necessarily universal. You still have to see what is best in your area.

Thanks,

MarkV

 

[TripleR]

Well I sure understand that! In my case I have had one of my tractors for 10 years with non-toxic anti-freeze and water in the rears and no leaks. I live in the South so I did it in the drive for little money and little worry of freeze issues. It sure did help with stability in the N. Georgia mountains where I originally bought it to use. We don't have the Locus thorns or sharp rock some on the forum have so punctures haven't been a problem for me. Wheel weights were just so much more expensive I couldn't see the advantage. Guess it is a bit like land, Location, Location,Location, is what you have to look at to decide what is best for you. Inter-net experience is valuable but not necessarily universal. You still have to see what is best in your area.

Thanks,

MarkV

Yep, location and use sure do change the demands placed on equipment. Many years ago when we were cleaning out a patch of woods, we didn't put weights or fluid in, but just put a lot of tire sealer in due to the thorns. A couple years later, we put new tires on when things got under control, but still have an occasional problem on one of our farms. Stobs have also taken a couple out and one cultivator foot many years ago.

 

[karnsguy]

I have a B7800 with R4 tires that came filled from the dealer; they always fill the tires on a tractor with a FEL. I normally don't have anything on the back of the tractor when using the FEL, and don't have any problems. I also have a 45HP John Deere tractor that has filled R4 tires that were almost worn out when I bought the tractor 18 years ago. I'm still using it (mainly for mowing) and have never had a leak, air or fluid. I think the fluid must plug small leaks kinda like slime does.

 

[4t9ers]

Update on the water in tires, I got a hold of the sales manager and he said they always add water to the rear tires with a loader on it. So the delivery guy was wrong

 

[MarkV]

Update on the water in tires, I got a hold of the sales manager and he said they always add water to the rear tires with a loader on it. So the delivery guy was wrong

Not sure where you are located so it may not be important. I am guessing when the dealer said they have loaded the tires with liquid they have done it with the appropriate liquid for your area. I sure would not want to have straight water in my tires if I lived in Maine. :confused2::confused2:

MarkV

 

[SmallTimeCountry]

How can you tell if you have fluid-filled tires?

 

[bp fick]

SmallTime
Stop your tractor with your rear tire to the 3 o clock position. Take your valve cap off and pretend to let out 2 or 3 lbs of "air" if pure liquid comes out, you have filled tires.

 

[davatk]

Update on the water in tires, I got a hold of the sales manager and he said they always add water to the rear tires with a loader on it. So the delivery guy was wrong

Then if you truly have filled tires, you should be OK, although a little more weight on the 3 point is always helpful. Maybe consider a grader blade. Doesn' really get too much in the way, and can also be useful depending on what you are doing with the FEL.