Can a Ballast Box be Too Heavy?

[arnoldziffel]

I need to buy a ballast box. My owner's manual states I need 800lbs.

My neighbor has a home made ballast barrel. He tells me it weighs about 1100 lbs. Would this be too much weight? Can the tractor be damaged by an overweight ballast box?

I'm using a Yanmar 3200 tractor.

Thanks.

 

[BigMike50]

Too heavy would be one that the 3 pt cant lift.

 

[RoyJackson]

Too heavy would be one that the 3 pt cant lift.

Yeah, the relief valve should let go if the ballast is excessive. However, I do suggest you always lower it to the ground when your tractor is not being used. No sense in putting any extra strain on your tractor. There's also a safety issue if any implement is left up....they drop very quickly (depending on how your "rate of drop" knob is set).
That said, I give your neighbor's ballast a try. Do ensure your loader is mounted first (before lifting the ballast box). I have a funny story about that...

I use sand in my ballast box (it's a Deere box I bought used). I can tailor the weight, if I want. I can empty it if I need to store it or transport it. And, if I need a bit more traction, I can always shovel some sand out.

 

[gwdixon]

You'll know if it is too much weight when the front tires won't steer the tractor. Four wheel drive helps some but the front is still pretty light.

I've had this happen with my BX2200 when the FEL is taken off to mow between trees. A bush hog, flail mower, aerator, or tiller can weigh quite a bit.

The manual probably states the minimum to ensure the rear wheels stay on the ground until the FEL pump goes into relief. The only way to know for sure is to test it. Oh, and loading the rear tires will help also.