Ballast block weight...how much is too much?

mcfarmall · May 10, 2020

I have a 3PH dirt scoop and I'm going to build a concrete form to cast a block of concrete that can be placed in the scoop when needed and removed if for some reason I want to use it as a scoop again. The dimensions of the block are 23.5 inches wide x 36 inches long x 12-18 inches high.

A 16 inch high block will weigh around 1125 lbs and an 18 inch high block around 1300 lbs. Add the weight of the scoop itself, approximately 200 lbs. As I will have to pay for a full yard of concrete, I was thinking of making two of them, possibly two different sizes, so that is also an option. Maybe a 12 incher and an an 18 incher?

I'm planning on using it with a quick hitch on the rear of a Kubota M5660 as a ballast/counterweight for the FEL. Assume 14.9x28 R1 tires filled to 75% with Rim Guard on typical steel rims, not the ones with cast iron hubs.

So the question is, am I making the block too big or just right?

FTG-05 · May 10, 2020

At 3300 lift capacity, I would say too light. I use my LMC box blade with a weight block for a total of just under 1200 lbs. It's not too much weight for my L4330 40 hp FEL.

For a +55 hp tractor, I would look at 1500-2000 lbs personally.

As I TIC state sometimes: If your 3ph can lift it, it's probably too light.

Good luck.

i7win7 · May 10, 2020

Kubota M566S 2WD & 4WD Tractors price List, Specs & Features
Lift capacity at 24 in. behind lift point 3307 LBS(1500KG)
Looks like just the big one will do - maybe up it to 1 ton. The dirt scoop may not handle the weight. Any way you can make the block as a 3pt attachment?

oosik · May 11, 2020

It also has a great deal to do with where the center of mass is. Example - I have a 1010# Rhino rear blade on my 3-point. The COM is well beyond 24" behind the lifting point of the 3-point. With 1550# of RimGuard in the rear tires and the Rhino on the 3-point - I can carefully lift 3000# with the grapple on the FEL.

I never lift this much weight beyond 6" off the ground. Just enough so I can safely move the loaded tractor to its intended location. Many time I will leave "knuckle drag" marks when moving a large rock or chunk of Ponderosa pine.