CK30HST+FEL using RMM

MacMurphy · Feb 16, 2005

When using the RMM, slasher or similar implement do I need to remove the FEL or can I simply leave it there as a permanent fixture ?

I'd prefer to keep the FEL fitted otherwise it'll be a pain but I remember someone saying it should be removed when mowing etc as it's otherwise just a dead weight...

Thanks

Murph

JayC · Feb 16, 2005

Are you asking if you have to remove the FEL to use a rear mount mower? No, you don't have to. You don't even have to with a MMM. People prefer to remove the loader for added manueverability though. Also, if you don't want to remove the loader you could remove the bucket to aid in decreasing overrall length. Also, if you are using a rotary cutter, most leave the FEL on as a counterweight as well as an early detection system to find obstacles hidden in tall grass/weeds/brush.

MacMurphy · Feb 16, 2005

So it's only because of it's size etc that some people prefer to remove it when mowing... presently I have few trees etc so I'd be happy to leave it on.

How difficult is it to remove and remount ?

Maybe the best solution is simply to remove the bucket.

Thanks

Murph

RedRocker · Feb 17, 2005

Didn't your dealer show you how to do all this stuff? Or did he just turn you loose?

Bowhunter · Feb 17, 2005

That's correct, it's perfectly fine to mow with the FEL attached, and as JayC stated it may be preferrable to have it on there for counterweight when running a rotary cutter or RFM. Since you have few trees it should not cause a problem. If you DO decide to remove it, I've been told that it only takes a few minutes to remove the whole FEL as you only remove a few pins.

VT_Kioti · Feb 17, 2005

It takes me about 1 min to remove the FEL on my CK30HST. To remount it takes about 2 - 3 min. It is very easy and I find it makes mowing a lot easier. I takes a little longer to make sure you are lined up correctly when remounting. It may take you longer the first few times but then it becomes sort of second nature getting lined up.

Al

VT_Kioti · Feb 17, 2005

Oh, one thing to be aware of Murph. After you have removed the FEL you may have to use a small grinder like a dremel to hone the paint out of the bores where the main pins go into the arms. For some reason Kioti seems to like to paint the insides of these bores. After the paint is removed the pins go in pretty easily.

Al

shoppintractors · Feb 17, 2005

<font color="blue"> Maybe the best solution is simply to remove the bucket.</font>

Simply removing the bucket leaves your loader arms exposed for one of those unexpected "gotcha's".
You may accidentally torque the loader arms out of alignment.

The whole FEL comes off easily as VT_Kioti stated. I would go that route.

Don

getut · Feb 17, 2005

I agree with what everyone else has said about pulling it off but would like to add one additional concern...

You stated that you have no maneuverability issues when mowing. With that in mind I would NOT remove it, because every time you disconnect and reconnect the quick connects, you are letting small amounts of material into the HST system.

The filter takes care of it, but unless necessary, why take the risk.

shoppintractors · Feb 17, 2005

<font color="blue"> because every time you disconnect and reconnect the quick connects, you are letting small amounts of material into the HST system.
</font>
Good point.

One really nice design feature on the CK30 is the quick disconnects are located high-up near the operators station away from the lower more dirt prone areas of the tractor. ....and protective caps are standard equipment for use when the hydraulic lines are disconnected.

Don