Grading JD 4100 with 5" Box Blade

[Jimnfireman]

After picking up a 5' Bush Hog Box Blade for a JD 4100, I am experiementing with what we can do. It makes for a great counter balance for the FEL. But more than that, I would like to get better at grading. Filling in behind a retainer wall, I want to smooth out the top grade. Can I allow the BB to basically "float" across the top. My draft settings seem to lock in. I realize the draft is meant to dig into the ground, but can we soften that up a little? I feel sure the equipment will do it, the operator however, may be a little unskilled.

 

[mfreund]

Without seeing what is actually happening, I am going to GUESS. I would guess the box is tilted forward and digging very aggressively in to the dirt. I would recommend to purchase a hydraulic top link. This will allow you to "adjust on the fly" the angle the box is operating at. Tilt forward for digging and back to lay down dirt. Level to level out a drive way etc.

There is no hydraulic down pressure on the 3-pt on the 4100. The tractor has really no action in how the blade performs besides the power to pull it. Search hydraulic top link for hours of reading fun!

 

[JD 4520]

Jim - you should be able to float the BB by adjusting the 3 point arms. If you have your operator manual you should be able to see how. Basically the lower arm has a slip lock that changes from float to locking. The pin pulls out and turns 90 degrees to make this switch between float and lock. Good luck.

 

[Jimnfireman]

Thanks Gary. I will check it first thing tomorrow. We have a 60 degree day forcast in January for Tennessee. That is a gift.