Loader FL1805 Bucket Level Indicator?

[hube2]

So, I read a few older threads about bucket level indicators.

Just for information, I will be using my bucket for moving snow and I have a set of edge tamers for it to help me not move stone or lawn.

To be honest, I don't see that I'll need an indicator. First is the fact the the top of the bucket is parallel with the bottom and I should be able to judge just by looking at this. Second, if I can't tell by looking at that I can just lean out a bit and see the bottom of the bottom of the bucket.

Anyway, I was curious and because I like to research and read I found that MF actually makes a level indicator for this FEL, shown in this video Massey Ferguson FL.185 Loader Bucket Gauge Rod for GC Series Sub-Compact Tractors - YouTube. You can get one for about $60.

Looking at where the indicator is I don't see that this would be all that easy to see and use, at least not enough to make this thing worth it given my two points above, but I could be wrong.

I have seen things about making your own, but what I really want is information on this specific indicator. Looking for reviews from anyone that's put this on.

So here are my questions:

1) Can you actually see it easily?

2) Do you find it useful?

 

[ovrszd]

Only way I'd think you can see it would be to raise the bucket pretty high??? Even then not sure how well.

I've got two types.

Kubota's is same style as this video but the rod notch and level bracket is up at the top of the cylinder where it's easily seen. Works fine.

Ford TLB's is a tube fixed to the cylinder barrel. Rod slides in and out of tube. When upper end of rod is even with upper end of tube bucket is level. Works fine.

The value of an indicator is that you can get the bucket adjusted to level while carrying it and going back to get another load. Don't have to wait until you set the bucket down to take a guess at whether it's level or not. I use mine every time I use the bucket.

 

[hube2]

The value of an indicator is that you can get the bucket adjusted to level while carrying it and going back to get another load. Don't have to wait until you set the bucket down to take a guess at whether it's level or not. I use mine every time I use the bucket.

So the value would be that I may be able to see when the bucket is level with it off the ground more easily and then lower it to either plow or scoop rather than lowering and then leveling. That makes sense and may make the job a little faster.

I know it's a long shot, but still hoping to hear from someone that uses this particular item.

 

[ray66v]

A level indicator is a nice thing to have.

However, with practice you may find that you don't need it.

 

[ovrszd]

As I said earlier, I use mine every time I use the bucket.

No one with an indicator will ever say they don't need it.

Some without an indicator may say they don't need it.

 

[WranglerX]

I made one from scrap pile parts.... Don't know why any would pay to buy one.... It is used with almost all my FEL work ...

Dale

 

[ovrszd]

Dale, that's the kind I prefer. I cut an additional 2" off the top half of the tube. I can see the rod end coming. I don't over run now.

Nice work!!!

 

[hube2]

Well, given how much I spent on the tractor I'm not going to grouse over 60 or 80 bucks if I can buy something and just bolt it on rather than spend the time building something myself.

But I question the usability of the one that I can get. While I wouldn't mind spending the money if I knew it will work, spending the money to find out it's not usable would not make me happy. If I'm gonna flush money down the toilet then I'd save the time and go straight to the toilet

I would love to see a picture or pictures of this one from the seat of the tractor.

 

[WranglerX]

Dale, that's the kind I prefer. I cut an additional 2" off the top half of the tube. I can see the rod end coming. I don't over run now.

Nice work!!!

IF the rod is even with end of tube, FEL is "level"... IF rod is out of tube bucket lip is in a "up curl" position, if rod disappears in tube bucket lip is in a "down curl"....

Dale

 

[ovrszd]

IF the rod is even with end of tube, FEL is "level"... IF rod is out of tube bucket lip is in a "up curl" position, if rod disappears in tube bucket lip is in a "down curl"....

Dale

Yep. And if you are raising the bucket back to level from the dump position you stop with the end of the rod even with the end of the tube. If you notch off a couple inches of the tube you can see the rod coming and not over run.