Increasing Three Point Hitch Lift Capacity

[Bobvt]

While I don't know what that would entail, shortening the arms is a great idea and there is some room to do that. While the arms have 4,000 lbs lift, the center of the lift point is probably close to 2 feet beyond the arms (logging winch a good 10 inches beyond hitch arms, butt end of logs another foot).

Thanks

Bob

 

[Bobvt]

The hydraulic top link is an interesting idea. Given the high pull of a log hitch, moving the top part of the winch in closer to the tractor would move the lift center in closer and increae lift.

Thanks.

Bob

 

[HayDR]

Bobvt,
Logging is not the easiest profession in the world, nor is it safe for the untrained person. I'm sure you are proficient at your profession. You seem to be pushing the capabilities of the Mahindra 6500. I just wonder if that tractor in the long run will take that type of lugging. You sure will be putting it to the test. What tractor did you use before you purchased the Mahindra? Have you used any of the skidders with tracks rather than tired tractors?

 

[Bobvt]

I have never used a skidder. I use to own a small dozer. It was great in the woods but slow (pull loads to landing) and more expensive to operate than a wheeled tractor.

The Mahindra is about as big (length - with) as want to go to get around efficiently. I will be very disappointed if the 6500 can't handle what I'm asking. An 8,000 lb hitch doesn't begin to tax the motor. I've owned several tractors (45 to 100 hp). I've always used tractors in the 55 - 65 hp range to skid with.

The tractor I used prior to the Mahindra was a 55 hp Long (4 wd with FEL). While it's lift arms were only rated for 2,600 lbs, it could handle an 8,000 lb hitch (lift wise) as well as the Mahindra. Because it was lighter than the Mahindra, it had more difficulty pulling the load out (light front end).

If the front axle can handle a loader with 5,000 lbs break out force, setting 5 feet beyond the front axle, the rear axle should have no problem pulling a 10,000+ lb. hitch.

Bob

 

[HayDR]

If the Long handled it the Mahindra should as well. I guess I do not have a good mental picture of what you are doing. If you have a digital camera show us your system. It may be possible to increase the relief pressure setting on the 3 pt. lift valve.

 

[JerryG]

Bobvt,
One thing that I would do is to check the hydraulic pressure. There has been several tractors that have been set at below the factory rating when delivered. It it is low, that would be a easy fix to more lift.

 

[sweettractors]

<font color="blue"> There has been several tractors that have been set at below the factory rating when delivered </font>

I agree with Jerry--I would think If it was my tractor, that I would want the dealer to verify that the releif valve was at the correct setting and lifting the amount advertised in the specs.--If the dealer did any adjustments upward on the relief valve? You may want to observe what they did and finish up at home--Of course that would void and possible warranty issue that may arise /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif ----Ken Sweet
Sweet Farm Equipment LLC *1 hour south of the NFM Show in Louisville, Ky*

 

[BobG_in_VA]

BobVT: As you know there is a valve just under your seat (front of seat). This valve must be fully opened (lefty loosey) for the arms to work correctly. My 6000's valve was a turn or 2 from fully opened when I received it. Also if you want the arms to stay in one postion, raise the arms to the desired height and then completely close the valve which will hydraulically freeze the lift arms in that postion. Just a thought. BobG in VA

 

[Bobvt]

I've already told the dealer I want the hydraulic pressure checked. Besides the 3 pt hitch, the loader doesn't seem to have the lift it should.

The relief value does seem to give out to easy. On the Long, once I got the arms up, they won't collapse (front end might start to come up).

Bob in VA: I've already checked the shut off valve under the seat. It is open, although shutting it off once the arms are raised is a good idea.

Thanks folks, I appreciate the helpful advise.

Bob

 

[JerryG]

Bob,
If your tractor's hydraulic system is like the ones that I have worked on, the valve when shut off will hold the arms up. But and a big it will all circumvent the over pressure relief valve. In other works, the valve is made to relieve the pressure spike when you hit a bump or drop in hole. If the valve is shut off and a large spit occurs there is no where for the fluid to go except to bust the lift piston or rod.