Ballast Ballast and ZTR's

Cumbres · Jun 5, 2019

So, since I am planning to get fluid put in my tractor tires next week I wondered if anyone had put fluid in their ZTR tires. I wouldn't need it for loader work obviously but there are many times when on a slope that the uphill tire has less traction. I notice this mainly when I mow my ditches (pretty steep) and around the "lagoooon". I also note that when I go to turn that I tend to slide the tire that I want to put into reverse to spin me around. I think some of that may be my expecting the machine to not behave according the the laws of physics and conservation of momentum (in other words I am too impatient).

So is it a good idea? Or just plain stupid?

I have seen some discussions of more aggressive tires for better traction but really don't want to replace tires on this machine as they are still in excellent shape.

Figured the extra cost of the fluid would be minimal if I am down there anyway for the tractor tires.

Thanks guys!

Cumbres

DK35vince · Jun 5, 2019

Cumbres said:
I have seen some discussions of more aggressive tires for better traction but really don't want to replace tires on this machine as they are still in excellent shape.

The Turfs on my zero turn were like new condition, and I changed them anyway (because they weren't worth a dam for traction on hills) to bar tires.
My Zero turn weighs 1600# and with that weight still got not traction on hills with turfs. So I'm betting loading the tires will make little difference.

Summerlin · Jun 5, 2019

I’ve found traction issues with ZTR’s to be mainly user-associated. Once you get very comfortable with the machine, differences in tread patterns can start to be noticed with traction

As far as fluid, I’m always a fan of adding weight. Could end up being more hassle than it’s worth. I can’t imagine the tires on a ZTR holding enough fluid to make a noticeable difference in traction.

Have you tried front weights? Maybe those could help? I’ve never used them but have heard positive reports

DK35vince · Jun 5, 2019

I can mow hills with the bar tires with no problem at all (Carlisle AT 101's) that were a major pain, or couldn't be mowed at all with the turfs. Period..

Cumbres · Jun 5, 2019

Well I did some more research on old threads on this topic and there are many posts stating not to do it. So I will probably drop it. Thanks everyone.

4570Man · Jun 6, 2019

Summerlin said:
I’ve found traction issues with ZTR’s to be mainly user-associated. Once you get very comfortable with the machine, differences in tread patterns can start to be noticed with traction

As far as fluid, I’m always a fan of adding weight. Could end up being more hassle than it’s worth. I can’t imagine the tires on a ZTR holding enough fluid to make a noticeable difference in traction.

Have you tried front weights? Maybe those could help? I’ve never used them but have heard positive reports

Front weights are exactly what you don’t want. They’ll pull you down the hill worse. I can’t imagine 50 pounds or so on the wheels as making much difference. Bar tires however will make a huge difference.

lennyzx11 · Jun 6, 2019

Both of my Dixie’s have front weights to balance the bagger on one and dump box on other. They were part of the kits. One is 80 lbs.

When I’m moving one with the bags/box empty on a hill, I don’t see any difference than not having them on there than before installation.

dalola · Jun 6, 2019

Replace the tires with chevron-style bars, and then wonder why you waited so long.

There's a reason everyone recommends them for ZTR's & hills.

Cumbres · Jun 6, 2019

dalola said:
Replace the tires with chevron-style bars, and then wonder why you waited so long.

There's a reason everyone recommends them for ZTR's & hills.

I will look into those. Appreciate all of the advise.

Cumbres