Loader for LX 178

[isaaccarlson]

We have an LX 178 that we use for everything. I know it is not the ideal host for a loader.
I don't want to put a big one on it, just something. It will be hydraulic and would move at least 100 lbs of dirt at a time.
I have seen youtube videos that show loaders on these things, but they are way too far ahead of the tractor and put too much stress on the front end.
I would like to build a traditional loader for it, not one of these cobbled together deals. I can use aluminum to save weight.
I am looking for thoughts and input about any specifics you can think of.

I am planning on adding a bigger hydro tank to the mower.
The frame can be modified for attachment points.

 

[Daves3032E]

Before I got a bigger tractor, I had wanted to had a loader to my X534. I wanted to keep it pretty low profile and be able to lift 250 lbs (figure if a snow blower was fine, then that weight capacity would probably be OK for the Axle - ballasted of course).

Here was a video I did of the model. I like the auto level feature of the wheel loader style. The larger forces attainable by having the curl cylinder extend, instead of retracting, I'm sure would be helpful.

Articulating Loader - YouTube

This was an earlier concept... sizing was close. More for scale against a lawn/garden sized tractor.

Maybe one day I''l be able to make one just to say I did it, but a larger tractor and loader is so much more useful.

 

[bigtiller]

Have you looked at Johnny Bucket? it's a good thing

Johnny Buckets For John Deere Sears Craftsman Cub Cadet Case Simplicity and Many More

 

[isaaccarlson]

Have you looked at Johnny Bucket? it's a good thing

Johnny Buckets For John Deere Sears Craftsman Cub Cadet Case Simplicity and Many More

I have looked at those, but they don't lift high enough. I need to dump into a truck bed.

 

[hslogger]

I think you are nutz to do it if you value your old JD Lx178. It aint designed for that kind of use. You will end up killing your primo mower.

 

[isaaccarlson]

I was talking with my wife about it today and we decided it would be best to find an older beast to put a nice loader on. I may put a small light duty loader on the JD, but most likely will find a different host.

 

[bigtiller]

Smart wife. :thumbsup: Jump up to a garden tractor or better yet, a SCUT (sub compact utility tractor)... They have a much heavier frame.