Loader frequent loader removal a bad thing?

[rmilho]

I saw an exhaustive thread (2009) regarding all TBN members that remove FEL for mowing (and was entertained with the comments)...nonetheless, most members were removing FEL for mowing (BX owners). I will choose to remove my FEL while mowing. However, does this place any unnecessary 'wear and tear' on the hydraulic connections or the hydraulic system itself?

for the record: i would love to leave it on all the time just to show i own a tractor and not a glorified mower...ha (making reference to the 2009 threads).

 

[Grandad4]

I've been doing that with 2 Kubotas for 9 years and 6 years respectively, with no ill effects. The paint on the bracket pins wears off and there are a few scrapes on the brackets. Big deal. But not having that heavy FEL beating up and down on the front axle as you mow saves wear and tear on the tractor itself. Plus, I don't risk taking out my wife's flowers or the mailbox if the FEL is parked safely in the shop!

 

[dennis52]

My FEL provides counterbalance for my 5 ft slasher (brush hog) when on slopes. I keep them both on all the time but take the bucket off.

From reading other posts ,either way sounds OK

 

[BotaBigot]

I always drop FEL/BH...less weight/more maneuverable...easier on 'bota/grass/fencing/landscaping. BX's ability to play riding mower is one reason I bought. Only downside I see is minimal fluid loss and chance of contamination...but I cap and always wipe QCs before reconnect. Removing/reinstalling can't be any harder on mounts than bouncing up and down if left on...

 

[soulasphil]

I always take off the FEL to hitch the autoconnect deck on my JD 3520 to increase visibility and manoeuvrability and decrease weight. Less damage to the grass and smaller surfaces left to cut with the walk behind. No particular sign of wear so far.

 

[fredhargis]

The first lesson I learned after delivery of my tractor was that the FEL is really in the way when mowing, and stuff out and about on the property was in mortal danger. So after one mowing, the FEL came off, and stays off when mowing.

 

[YesDeere]

I may be wrong but I always take mine off. I can't stand to watch it bounce around while mowing. I think that causes more wear. Plus its in the way for tight spaces.

 

[powergod1]

I may be wrong but I always take mine off. I can't stand to watch it bounce around while mowing. I think that causes more wear. Plus its in the way for tight spaces.

agree and thats the same reason I take mine off

 

[psvines]

And taking it off frequently helps to reduce the amount of time required to take it off. I'm not yet at the Messicks video time, but it's getting much easier each time I remove it.
On my BX2660, for 3 years, I tend to leave the FEL attached from the last mow until the first mow in the spring, and then only attach it when needed during the mowing season. And then at the same time, almost always mount the rear blade for counter balance.

 

[Bird]

Personally, I sure preferred having the FEL off when I was using the tiller, cultivator, rotary cutter, and/or finish mower.