Loader Aftermarket loader on a Ford 1520

[BrayD]

There are a couple 4wd 1520's available locally, but they don't have loaders. There also happens to be a small loader for sale independently. I'm considering picking up a tractor and this loader with plans to marrying the two. I wanted to get some insight from those who are more familiar with these machines before taking the plunge.

Tractor: TractorData.com Ford 1520 tractor information

6.4gpm, 2100psi hydraulics from what I see. The 7108 loader it typically comes with has a 900lb lift at the pin. 2200lb breakout. 99" lift height at pin.

The loader available locally is a Bush Hog M146.

Loader specs: Bush Hog M146 Operator's Manual (Page 11 of 39) | ManualsLib

Values given are listed at 6.0gpm, 1875psi. 570lb lift to max height; 940lb lift to 59" height. 1335lb breakout. 86" lift height at pin.

Definitely a bit lighter duty than the 7108, but I may be able to live with that for what I'm doing. Not opposed to modifying things if necessary either. I like to build.

Loader does not include any brackets, but does come with a control valve. I have a very capable shop including a 5x10 cnc plasma. Unless I'm missing something, I think I should be able to build a subframe/brackets, run hoses, and put it to work. Asking here to see if I AM missing something.

Are there particular models of 1520 that don't have the hydro features to run a loader? Any red flags with the model of loader I'm considering here? Just want to make sure there isn't a proprietary mounting system or something that I'd really struggle to build.

 

[Craigercj]

engineering and fabricating mounting brackets that matches the frame, quick attach system, and load seems like a bit of a risky task to me...

As far as a 1520 handling it, idk why not. I put a westendorf ta111 on a 1520 with no issues. Lift on that loader is like 1700lbs.

 

[BrayD]

Thanks for the reply. Good to hear it can handle a ta111 - I have a request for quote out to Westendorf right now for that same loader. I'm guessing it'll be pricey, but these no-loader 1520's are pretty reasonable. Gives me some cash to play with.

I agree, replicating the quick attach system seems a bit ambitious. I'm considering picking up the loader anyways and cannibalizing it to whatever extent necessary to make it work. For the price, it's probably worth it just to have the bucket and cylinders. Planning on contacting these sellers soon so we'll see where this leads.

 

[RobertN]

Some years back I had a Bush Hog loader put on my 19hp Kubota B8200 I used to have. It worked well. The QT model was easy and quick to detach when needed.

 

[rScotty]

Thanks for the reply. Good to hear it can handle a ta111 - I have a request for quote out to Westendorf right now for that same loader. I'm guessing it'll be pricey, but these no-loader 1520's are pretty reasonable. Gives me some cash to play with.

I agree, replicating the quick attach system seems a bit ambitious. I'm considering picking up the loader anyways and cannibalizing it to whatever extent necessary to make it work. For the price, it's probably worth it just to have the bucket and cylinders. Planning on contacting these sellers soon so we'll see where this leads.

It ought to be a reasonable project to make a simple rigid subframe.
I've had quick attach loaders with and without quick change buckets. I rarely took the loader off the tractor, but with SSQA I'm constantly either changing buckets or going bucketless. Very handy..

 

[BrayD]

Hopping back in here for an update. I ended up bringing the 1520 home last night. It needs a little work, but I think it will be a great machine.

The M146 loader is still available. Hoping to pick it up this weekend so I can start brainstorming a subframe.

 

[RobertN]

Pictures or it didnt happen

 

[RobertN]

It ought to be a reasonable project to make a simple rigid subframe.
I've had quick attach loaders with and without quick change buckets. I rarely took the loader off the tractor, but with SSQA I'm constantly either changing buckets or going bucketless. Very handy..

I take the loader off when mowing, and for annual maintenance.

My TC40 with loader and rotary mower is a bit over 24' long. Taking the loader off shortens it up enough that I have better clearance working around the trees on my property.

 

[BrayD]

Missed out on the loader this weekend. Sold it to someone else while I was waiting for a time/place to pick it up. Strange how that happens.

The tractor has been great though. Came with a tiller and a 5' brush hog. Pic was just after pulling it off of the trailer.

I did find a box blade over the weekend. I've been cursing these weeds. Feels great to have a way to properly maintain things around here.

I'd like a loader eventually, but now my gears are turning for home made implements that will let me lift things with the 3pt. I could do a lot of work with a primitive set of forks.