Do you use ballast when loader is removed

[RobertN]

I pulled my Quick Attach loader of my B8200 yesterday, for the very first time. I was doing some mowing, and remembered how folks here mentioned they took the loader off for better manueverability and less weight. I was just doing field mowing, but I do have to get around a number of trees.

Before I got the loader, I used two 45lb suitcase weights, and loaded the front tires. Otherwise, I just pushed the front end around when I tried to turn, even in 4wd. When I'm on flat ground, it is ok, but I have a lot of mild hilly terrain. Every time I try to turn into a hill, the front just pushes.

By removing the laoder, but still having the sub-frame attached, I thought I'd have enough weight up front. It is better than before, but the front is still light(I have a 4' rear rotary mower). The Loader Sub-frame is in the way of where I used to hang the suitcase weights.

I like it without the loader, because it is easier to steer(manual steering) and manuever.

What do you guys do?

Oh, after having the loader for three years, the tractor looks funny now with it removed /w3tcompact/icons/shocked.gif

 

[Gary_in_Indiana]

Those loaders come off? Really? /w3tcompact/icons/grin.gif

Seriously, if your front end is plowing when you turn, you need some weight up there. You might have to configure something to allow you to hang your suitcase weights up there again.

 

[hazmat]

Ditto what Gary said. Even with the loader sub frame on my TC18, the front end gets light with the RFM lifted. If It wasn't temporary (getting a MMM soon) I'd get suitcase weights. For now, I leave the mower on the ground on any hill.

 

[Von]

Robert, I hang these two wheel weights off the front of my B2710 when I use my 5ft. cutter without the loader on. Helps a lot to hold the front end down. (see attached photo)

 

[RobertN]

I think I could do something similar; the Bushhog loader mount is different. But, I could use the same concept.

I had been thinking that for you folks with big lawn area's, you would want no weight on the front, lest the front tires bite in when turning. I guess that woul be ok with a MMM, but not a rear mower.

 

[centex]

I hang eight 42# suitcase weights on the front when I remove the loader for mowing. I have hills and a sandy area and have no problems with this configuration although I have to admit that I have not tried it without the weights.