Ballast Front weights

[professor]

I thought it would be a good idea to bring the issue of front weigths to this forum. I am sure they have been discussed in the past. I have heard of and seem photos of small Yanmars carrying at least 300# lb weights on the front. This much weight is extremely hard on the steering mechanism. I have a 1401 and the recommend front end weight is 135#. I have seen this first hand since my brother put over the recommended weight on his 1530 JD. It took a while be damaged the steering.

 

[rich1010220]

I'm not an expert on front weights but would it not be a ratio between how much weight you are carrying on the back as to how much you hang on the front? 300 pounds may be too much on the front with nothing on the 3 point but may just be perfect when carrying a rotary mower. Maybe what we should look at is total weight the front axle carries. Just my opinion.

Rich

 

[MarkStewart]

I've read that too in my ym169 manual (135lbs max weight).
What I'm wondering about is if there is a loader installed on the tractor wouldn't that weigh alot more than 135lbs? Didn't they have loaders as options new?

 

[normde2001]

I think the YM2000, (YM240 manual), Says 200# max. I believe it has to do with the size and strength of the frame and the front bumper.

 

[jimstractors]

Most 1401 loaders weigh about 500 lbs. (Like the Koyker model 80) Most are mid-mount and have bracing (depending on the brand) to the front bumper or the rear axle. This distributes the weight properly to the frame. Steering is no problem with the ones I have sold (see attachment), even with a full bucket.
Jim
Jim's Tractors