Ballast Roller - How much weight + any advice

[Wagtail]

G'day fellow TBN Members!

I attempted to search previous threads but there are a fair number of alternative names for this implement so I've provided a picture of what I've bought:



It's advertised as a FIBR1500 Ballast Roller.

My question is (what with your combined experience) how much ballast should I put into this? What type of ballast? And any tips you have on using it.

Background info: The JD 4105 with 300CX FEL + 4in1 bucket (for front ballast), iMatch QH on the back. I'm going to fertilize/seed first, then till, somewhat sandy soil mixed with previously spread horse manure. The roller is to pack it all down so that the roots will establish in a stronger base as horses will be grazing once its all good to go.

Ta Mates! :thumbsup:

 

[Sysop]

You want it 100% full. Most folk use water. As long as it is full with no air, oxidization (rusting) won't occur as it needs air to rust. You also want it 100% full so the water weight can't shift side to side inside the unit making the "downhill side" heavier and shifting the center of gravity of your tractor (weight shifting unpredictably and off-center loads have been the cause of more than one rollover). No worries, your JD can handle the weight fine totally full.

 

[LD1]

Yep, water or similar.

Doesnt look to be the heaviest of frames, so I would NOT fill it with sand or concrete or the like. I think that would be too much weight for the way its designed

 

[jimmysisson]

Agree with LD1, except not sure of size?? 1,000 to 1,300 lbs of water might stress the rear 3 pt strut? Is it made to be filled? The spikes make sure it rolls, not skids? Cool looking rig.
Jim

 

[Sysop]

His tractor is rated to 2200lbs at 24", I'd be more concerned about ensuring it is full if using fluid so it's not sloshing around. Generally you drag them in a straight line, and lift to turn at the end of the rows (otherwise the spikes either tear the turf or bend as you turn). While turning you don't want it half full and weight transferring from side to side due to the ballast sloshing around inside.

 

[LD1]

His tractor is rated to 2200lbs at 24", I'd be more concerned about ensuring it is full if using fluid so it's not sloshing around.

I think he was referring to the roller itself not handling the weight. As was I. I know his tractor is plenty big enough.

 

[Sysop]

I think he was referring to the roller itself not handling the weight. As was I. I know his tractor is plenty big enough.

Ahhh,, yea, gotcha :thumbsup: I agree that 3pt part of the unit is underbuilt for any substantial weight.

 

[Midniteoyl]

If water, put a gallon or two of this in there to help protect the metal.. I know they say 'if full its ok', but thats hogwash IMHO. Oxygen comes from the water

Sierra, Gallon, Antifreeze, Biodegradable, Non-Toxic Propylene Glycol,

 

[lostcreekranch]

Or this one for about $17/ gallon.

http://images.oreillyauto.com/parts/img/large/afz/lowtox.jpg

 

[OldMcDonald]

Wagtail, I ask the same questions as jimmysisson about whether it is intended to be filled, or perhpas just a small amount of ballast added? You have not given the size, but if it is 6 feet long and 18" diameter it will take about threequarters of a ton/tonne of water to fill it. Is the frame designed to lift that weight? Having farmed in Oz through the '80s I know how helpful the dealers are there. What do they say? Are the spikes removable? It looks more like an aerator than a grassland roller.