M4D-071 Maximum Operating Weight

[LD1]

Here is an illustration from testing different tractor sizes, tires all inflated to 12 psi, small tractor to large tractor, tire size changing with tractor size to match load capacity. In the past, I had the opportunity to visit a facility where they tested soil compaction profiles like this, primarily for evaluating materials and methods for road construction but also for agricultural purposes. Concrete channel 2 meters deep and 5 meters wide so compaction would not be affected by the base. Soil type to be tested trucked in (massive amounts) controlling soil moisture, other parameters. Drive across, then measure compaction profile using nuclear reflection. Quite impressive if you want to construct a road or building but overkill for ag, except easily identifying advantage of large track tractors over wheeled versions when it comes to compaction. Also why we are seeing farmers spend big $$$ for track type grain carts so as to not destroy next year's yield by compacting it like concrete toting out this year's harvest.

Nice chart.

Alot of people are always quick to say ground pressure equals tire pressure

And while that may be true on concrete...ground pressure is not the same as compaction.

 

[Iowa Hillbilly]

Here is an illustration from testing different tractor sizes, tires all inflated to 12 psi, small tractor to large tractor, tire size changing with tractor size to match load capacity. In the past, I had the opportunity to visit a facility where they tested soil compaction profiles like this, primarily for evaluating materials and methods for road construction but also for agricultural purposes. Concrete channel 2 meters deep and 5 meters wide so compaction would not be affected by the base. Soil type to be tested trucked in (massive amounts) controlling soil moisture, other parameters. Drive across, then measure compaction profile using nuclear reflection. Quite impressive if you want to construct a road or building but overkill for ag, except easily identifying advantage of large track tractors over wheeled versions when it comes to compaction. Also why we are seeing farmers spend big $$$ for track type grain carts so as to not destroy next year's yield by compacting it like concrete toting out this year's harvest.

They say a pictures worth a thousand words and I think that picture may be worth more!

 

[Iowa Hillbilly]

They probably have something on the M7060. The M4 is the M7060 besides some updated components. It should almost be a 1 to 1 comparison. The M5 is a the next size up in weight and everything else.

I checked the search page at the Nebraska tractor test lab and couldn't find a report for the M7060 or the M4.

 

[Iowa Hillbilly]

1) You will never regret buying the pull behind version of this drill. Fast turning with a 3 point drill simply tears up the disks on the drill and this drill is heavy when fully loaded especially when using weights on the drill for hard soil conditions.

That might be the better way to go. I like the idea of being able to pick up the drill for maneuvering, but I'm not sure that's absolutely required for my needs.