Front End Loader on a 2WD Tractor?

[MBDiagMan]

I am getting mixed feedback regarding the usefulness of an FEL on a 2WD tractor.

The tractor will probably be a 4005 JD or M5100 Kubota 2WD. I will be using the loader for moving gravel, brush and timber with very little actual loading of material onto a truck.

Thanks for sharing any experience that you may have regarding this issue.

Doc

 

[sweettractors]

We have 85 hp loader tractors at each facility and 1 more on the farm. All 2 wheel drive with FEL and no problems. What did people do before 4 wheel drive? Ken Sweet

 

[wedge40]

My experience with 2WD and FEL has been pretty good. As long as the tractor has power steering. I used my tractor/FEL combo for a few years without the PS working, and it was a real work out. But now that the PS is fixed I've moved many loads of "Stuff". I've move 30 or 40 trees with the Grapple, dug and moved dirt with the bucket, etc.

The one thing you WILL need is balast. Either loaded tires or something heavy on the back.


Wedge

 

[rekees4300]

You should avoid 2WD with FEL if you will be operating on slopes.

 

[sweettractors]

You should avoid 2WD with FEL if you will be operating on slopes.

Before the mid eighties, there were no 4 WD in this area of the state. Now, You see one occasionally. Not a common sight in Central KY. The exception is the smaller CUT and SCUT's. Ken Sweet

 

[roger 4400]

I had a 2wd old Oliver with a loader for 10 years, it will work but as said before, use a ballast in the back and do not forget that when you have a bucketfull, your braking ability will be reduced a lot . Less weight on the back means almost no braking......now I have a 4wd and love it... you will learn why you have 2 braking pedals. Good luck.

 

[MBDiagMan]

Thanks for the quick and thorough responses.

I live on pretty flat ground. There are some sloping areas on the place, but mostly flat ground.

Thanks again!
Doc

 

[careyo63]

I use a FEL on a JD 5103 with PS 2wd in Ga.with no Problems at all. On a small compact you will need ballast if it doesn't have PS or 4wd. you won't be able to hardly turn the wheel without moveing and the weight in the bucket you will loose your Drive Traction without any counter weight. If you are on alot of a Grade or Hills 4wd is almost a must. IMO.

Carey

 

[kennyd]

If resale value is at all important to you, then get 4WD.

 

[jjmarotz]

My old 4010 2wd