300cx FEL bucket level indicator

[RxRatedZ71]

I, too, have a 300x series loader for my 3203 that I bought new in 2008. My loader/bucker came with a level indicator, and I can say that it sure does help. I realize that you can wing it and that you should "become one with your tractor/loader/implements". Everyone's machine will run slightly different and have its own idiosyncrasy. However, it does speed up the learning curve. The newer rods are bent at slightly less of an angle than the bend in the loader arm, thus avoiding the chance of getting snagged than if it were straight.

 

[cubcadetman]

Hi my EX3200 CubCadet did not come with one so I made one for about $10. and it works fine.

 

[beenthere]

cubcadetman
Welcome to the forum.
Nice pics and I like the hooks you have arranged on your bucket. Also that bucket indicator rod looks like it will work just great.

Ha! Bumble Bee for sure.

 

[Nuru]

I agree, nice job.

 

[JB4310]

In my opinion you need the BLI if you want to be productive, sure without out one you can look at the top of the bucket when it's on the ground to see pretty close where level is. but that takes much more time than hitting the mark right on as the loader is lowering, as soon as the bucket hits the ground your ready to go, especially when your already on the go.

It's a time saver which makes you more productive, If mine didn't have one I would go right out and get it. And the new style bent rod on the 300CX is an improvement over the previous models, making it even quicker and easier to hit the mark.

JB.

 

[arrabil]

In my opinion you need the BLI if you want to be productive

Totally disagree with that. I can put the bucket level to the ground on any hill, grade, or crest. The indicator doesn't help you with squat for that. And the only reason I believe I'm any good at it is because I didn't have an indicator while I was learning to use the loader. Kind of like taking your driver's test with a stick shift.

 

[Spudland_Dave]

Totally disagree with that. I can put the bucket level to the ground on any hill, grade, or crest. The indicator doesn't help you with squat for that. And the only reason I believe I'm any good at it is because I didn't have an indicator while I was learning to use the loader. Kind of like taking your driver's test with a stick shift.

True...I cut my teeth on 2 tractors which didnt have a BLI, so I can see your point....BUT both of those tractors had buckets with a top which was parallel to the bottom of the bucket....
On my 3520, I could not live without my BLI because my bucket (Skid Steer) does not have a top which would give me any indication of level, the BLI is also super handy for my Forks & Snowblade...

 

[Barely Smokin']

I knew this thread would turn into a "I don't need no stinkin' bucket level" thread!! ;-)

There are good arguments for both sides, for sure.

The number of occassions you need your bucket "level" are actually quite infrequent, IMHO. The bucket is typically pitched downwards to initiate a cut and then, once the cut is started, all bets are off. A level bucket at that point does not guarantee a level grade. The soil type, amount of spoil in the bucket, the attitude of the tractor, changes in the existing grade---all will require continuous out-of-level adjustments by the operator. Even when back-dragging to level grade, the bucket is not level.

Ah well, I s'ppose I'll sit back and let someone tell me I'm doing it all wrong ;-) Wouldn't be the first time! FWIW, I can see how a level indicator would be nice if you were on level ground approaching a level load with pallet forks.

Point is, a level indicator, while perhaps a useful tool, will only get you 5% of the way there---if moving dirt is your concern. I'd hate to mislead the OP by saying "get a level indicator...that's all ya need!"

 

[Gizmo2]

I have been using them since 1988 and the one on my JD2320 is not going anywhere soon. They sure save time getting in the ballpark!

 

[Gizmo2]

Either way, the indicator should be standard equipment and included with the OP tractor.