Lifting front of tractor with FEL

[dfkrug]

I you want to buy used tractors (and I have owned numerous
abused rentals), you SHOULD do the loader lift test to see if the
tractor can effortlessly lift the front wheels off the ground without
using the curl function. I have found numerous beaters which
failed this test. Biggest problem is a wornout pump, but sometimes
it is just low fluid or a "tired" relief spring. Assume the worst.

The other thing I look for is excessive front axle pivot wear. This
has got to be the hardest place to properly grease. I just
replaced a pivot on a JD955 and it is only a 1" pin. The front
axle wobble is easy to detect with the front end raised.

 

[Doc_Bob]

Isn't that how one is supposed to drag/push oneself thru the deeper mud or get the front wheels up over the rocks and logs?

I have done it many times. I learned about it from the folks at TBN! Saved me every time.
Bob

 

[RoyJackson]

On the JD 790, one has to lift the front end (with the FEL) when removing the loader

 

[have_blue]

What about forcing the FEL bucket down to anchor the tractor, say when using the backhoe?

Should the stabilizer legs of the backhoe be able to lift the backend?

If you shouldn't lift the front wheels with the loader, how do you get it on and off a trailer without ramps?

All kidding aside, when I complained to my dealer that my loader was weak, that's how he tested it. (It couldn't pick up the front wheels by simply pushing down. You have to uncurl the bucket.)

I would be careful using the FEL for a front stabilizer. In certain situations (of if the BH is really powerful) you could bend a strut or arm.

Normally the stabilizers can easily lift the back end. It's not really about power, as there's plenty. It's about stroke.

 

[Atlas]

If the tractor was new I would guess the guy was too much of a pain in the arse to deal with.

If the tractor was used either the guy was a PITA or he was about to demonstrate that there is a problem with the FEL. If the staff sees a problem and the tractor gets sold to someone else without the problem being fixed or disclosed the dealer could face some litigation.

"Yes, your honor. I tried the tractor out just the day before and it was broken."

 

[dfkrug]

If the staff sees a problem and the tractor gets sold to someone else without the problem being fixed or disclosed the dealer could face some litigation.

Due diligence is advisable for the buyer to undertake. Unlike in real estate, sellers of vehicles or equipment have no defect disclosure requirement.
If a sales contract guarantees no known defects and some were found
later by the buyer, good luck proving the seller knew of the defect in advance of the sale. Caveat Emptor.

 

[Atlas]

Michigan has a 'lemon law' that applies to new and used cars. I don't know how it is worded, but, I would think someone could make the case to apply it to tractors as well.