A simple three point counterweight

[smoker]

Thanks k0ua, makes sense. I like the 55 gal drum idea with provision for handeled tools etc. Seems like there is never enough room for carrying extra stuff. smoker

 

[longshot47]

All the suggestions seem workable and the photos are great.
When I did mine [BB] I fussed around with locating the top link so as to keep things simpatico......until I decided to situate the drawbar above the center of gravity on the barrel....and omit the top link connection altogether. The barrel remains vertical in all positions, rests on the ground when the tractor is not in use and the capacity of the barrel to pivot on the pins offers some forgiveness in the event that I back into something.
One of these days I'll figure out the picture posting thing.

 

[scott_vt]

All the suggestions seem workable and the photos are great.
When I did mine [BB] I fussed around with locating the top link so as to keep things simpatico......until I decided to situate the drawbar above the center of gravity on the barrel....and omit the top link connection altogether. The barrel remains vertical in all positions, rests on the ground when the tractor is not in use and the capacity of the barrel to pivot on the pins offers some forgiveness in the event that I back into something.
One of these days I'll figure out the picture posting thing.

Good Afternoon Longshot47,
Im with you on that one, I used a 35 gallon steel barrel, about 700 lbs I believe, and situated my 7/8" bar just under the first rib down on the barrel. That thing hardly even moves, and I have taken it over some pretty rough terrain.

KOua, very nice job BTW !

 

[smoker]

I like the KISS method.." Keep it simple stupid" Above center of gravity and centered. That interests me the best. Still could use the PVC pipe for carrying some small tools. Perfect. Thank you Gentlemen. smoker

 

[k0ua]

I like the KISS method.." Keep it simple stupid" Above center of gravity and centered. That interests me the best. Still could use the PVC pipe for carrying some small tools. Perfect. Thank you Gentlemen. smoker

Just keep in mind, that the tractor shown above is quite large, and has a lot of lift on the 3pt. so attaching above the center of gravity was easy and still getting the ground clearance he wanted to achieve. On a smaller tractor, without as much lift distance in the 3pt. you may not be able to attach up that high to get above the center of gravity of the barrel to not need the top link and still get enough ground clearance

James K0UA

 

[J_J]

Very interesting ideas! Would like to fab something like that for my B9200 but am not sure how you folks determined how much weight to use. I lifted a 55 gal drum of fuel oil with the forks I built from plans on this site. Everything worked well but had the feeling I was at the limit for this tractor. I have loaded turf tires. Sure would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks, smoker

I also have the Kubota B9200Hst, and the lifting weight on the 3pt is about 450. A 55 gal barrel of water weighs about 440 lbs. If you are going to use a 55 gal barrel, only fill it about 1/2, to 3/4 full of cement, and stick some 2 in PVC pipes in it for rakes, shovel, with a space for chain laying in the top.

 

[k0ua]

Thanks for the compliment Scotty, I have enjoyed having it, and using it. It has been very handy to carry things, and helps keep my "rear end" on the ground where it belongs:thumbsup:

James K0UA

 

[Reg]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder but why would someone consider hanging an ugly old barrel an a nice looking tractor?

But if I was going to build a barrel weight, I would consider a cat. 1 draw-bar and poke that through the barrel, and fill with cement. This would be stronger than re-bar as far as bending, and they only cost $20 or so.

Be careful so you don't make the thing to heavy for your tractor. There will be a lot of jerking around back there and you don't want to rip something off the rear end. I never heard of that happening, but I'm new here.
:thumbsup:

Because it is merely a functional WEIGHT !
That is WHAT it is, that is ALL it is.
I see no need to paint it to match a tractor sunshade with contrasting fringe around the edge.
It isn't part of the driveway ornament (-:

I doubt that many Cat 1 tractors would have a PROBLEM with 1/2 ton or so on the lift arms, many implements weigh more than that and the capacity of many Cat 1 tractors is well over a ton - IOW, not an issue.

 

[smoker]

Thank you J_J, that is the info I was looking for. I was unaware of the 450# capacity. My main use for the ballast is to counter balance the tractor when I have the forks and pallet installed. Someone can stand on the pallet with a chain saw and trim branches on my trees. So you think if I shoot for ~300#'s of ballast I should be OK? smoker

 

[moored4]

Someone can stand on the pallet with a chain saw and trim branches on my trees. So you think if I shoot for ~300#'s of ballast I should be OK? smoker

Boy are the SAFTY POLICE going to have fun with this one!!!:laughing: :laughing: :laughing:

I don't thank this is your best ideal