How much weight up front?

[Jason280]

For the last decade, I've done the majority of work with a Kubota L4330 (4wd w/ front end loader). I recently got rid of the 4330, ordered a new MX5400, and picked up a Ford 3910 and 3930. I'm still waiting on the 5400 to be delivered, so I've been using the Fords for primarily all the bushhogging, harrowing, and planting. Neither of the Fords have FEL's, so I am having some issues with the steering getting "light" up front...especially with the heavier harrows.

I know there are a lot of variables involved, but is there a general rule of thumb on how much weight you should have up front?

 

[LD1]

I dont know of any general rule.....and even if there was most people dont have a way to measure it. Most just go by instinct. Steering too light you need more. Rears keep breaking loos is too much up front not enough in the back.

4wd it is beneficial to make sure the front has enough weight so those wheels can actually assist. 2wd you just need enough to steer.

Those old fords are heavy tractors for their size. ~30% heavier than your new MX. Do you plan on using the same attachments with the new kubota?

 

[Hay Dude]

For the last decade, I've done the majority of work with a Kubota L4330 (4wd w/ front end loader). I recently got rid of the 4330, ordered a new MX5400, and picked up a Ford 3910 and 3930. I'm still waiting on the 5400 to be delivered, so I've been using the Fords for primarily all the bushhogging, harrowing, and planting. Neither of the Fords have FEL's, so I am having some issues with the steering getting "light" up front...especially with the heavier harrows.

I know there are a lot of variables involved, but is there a general rule of thumb on how much weight you should have up front?

Not a rule of thumb, but if I were you, I’d start with the weight rack (if you don’t have one already mounted) and add 500lbs. You can always add more suitcase weights as you go. If you start with 1000lbs, it might be ok, but if it’s too much, they end up in the shop taking up space.
I have 2200lbs on my Case-IH for a square baler and it’s just enough.

 

[toolslinger]

We ran many years with a heavy 5' rotary behind an 8N on pretty good hills. Nothing up front other than wheel weights, so something like a 100# per wheel.
Would have been nice to have a little more, but it generally felt ok.
If you're feeling light, throw something on there, and just add until you're ok.

 

[Tinhack]

I don't run any weights on my 3910. Unlock the brake pedals and steer with those. That's what I do when dragging the old heavy Ford 954 rotary. Although steering has been better since I put new tires on the front.

 

[Doughknob]

25% of what is on the rear.

 

[CobyRupert]

Interesting question, but it’s not the weight, it’s the torque.
That is, how far the weight is “out front” is just as significant as the amount of weight.
If it’s twice the distance you only need 1/2 the weight.

 

[John0829]

That is why the old tractors had two brake pedals, to assist in steering when the front got light. Also so the steering would not be hard when there was no weight on the back for none power steering tractors it can make a big difference.

Personally I hate the fact the newer HST tractors do not have dual brake pedals because at least for me using the brake pedals to assist in steering is an automatic reflex.

 

[Doughknob]

Personally I hate the fact the newer HST tractors do not have dual brake pedals because at least for me using the brake pedals to assist in steering is an automatic reflex.

Mine has 2 brake pedals..... 2020 model

 

[Doughknob]

Interesting question, but it’s not the weight, it’s the torque.
That is, how far the weight is “out front” is just as significant as the amount of weight.
If it’s twice the distance you only need 1/2 the weight.

That is why i said 25%. Figuring rear axel to 3pt hooks about 1/4 rear axel to front weights........ for a typical compact tractor......