Ballasting

[Boswa]

Thnks for welcmn m to ur forum. I have a question for all of you. Why is it not a good idea to ballast using water?

 

[Deere Dude]

Thnks for welcmn m to ur forum. I have a question for all of you. Why is it not a good idea to ballast using water?

I assume you are talking about putting water in tires. It won't hurt anything as long as you live in a place where water don't freeze. Generally folks put a heavier concentrate to make the tractor's rear end heavier. Many people put something in called Rimguard which is 1/3 heavier than water as is made from a beet juice extract and is non-toxic.
And for many years people put Calcium Chloride which is also heavy but corrosive in the tires but that seems to rust rims out over a period of time. It seems people are shying away from that stuff.
Some people put windshield washer fluid in but that is only as heavy as water.
I'm sure there are other things folks add to tires but these seem to be popular lately.
One reason is because there is a lot of cheap weight compared to putting wheel weights on, but those are fine too.

 

[Boswa]

Thnks 4 the advic

 

[oldnslo]

depending the water quality, mold and slime inside the tires may also be an issue.

 

[RoyJackson]

I've used windshield washer fluid (make sure it's the cold weather type!)...works well in my last three tractors.

Deere Dude mentioned Calcium Chloride. Yes, it can cause rust (if you get a leak), but folks have been using it for decades with no problems. Pricewise, it's the biggest bang for the buck.
That said, I wouldn't use it personally.

 

[lockhaven]

I have the beat juice, lots of weight and if it leaks critters can drink it and make it home

 

[HCJtractor]

I use water/antifreeze mixture. Works fine without any problems. And its cheap and can be done yourself easily. Low temps here are rarely any lower than the teens and not for extended periods.