rvtech
Gold Member
I also use an attachment for ballast. I use either a tiller or backhoe when using the loader. I think it's a matter of whether you need and are ready to purchase a rear attachment.
Ready to buy 2305 - which options?
- Thread starter cast_and_blast
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- john deere 2305
OP
cast_and_blast
Platinum Member
For now, I think I'll stick with the ballast box as I'm just not sure what I'll want/need to hang off the back. I did like the idea of visiting the local tire shops to collect old lead wheel balancing weights and loading up the ballast box with that before filling with concrete. I also like the idea of putting a few pieces of plastic pipe in the ballast box to serve as tool holders for long handled tools.
Any more thoughts? I do believe I'll be placing the order this AM.
Scott
Any more thoughts? I do believe I'll be placing the order this AM.
Scott
Well I thought I would add my two cents worth – took delivery of a jd2305 on June 9th and just this last weekend finally got to get some use out of it (finally the rain slowed down here in lovely New England). 2305, FEL, box blade, front blade (snow removal), ballast and turfs
Anyway started clearing standing deadwood off the property this past weekend – hopefully I will never have to make use of a wheelbarrow again. After about 10 trips from the back forty to our fire pit my wife asked that I start using another route as I was creating tracks over the ‘good’ part of the property. So even turf tires will leave tracks over time, granted I was carrying a great deal of weight. I really opted for the turfs because of concern with turf destruction so I would think either would be okay but maybe the r4’s would be better for traction, I did notice some traction issues in the mud.
I had my ballast box on during this time (have no fill in my tires) and the tractor preformed great. I even dug out a good 600lb+ granite rock using the FEL (no toothbar as of yet – but I see the need). Moved partially cut remainders (4’ – 4’6” diameter 8’ long) of a very large pine tree with ease, did not lift just pushed them over to another area for further cutting.
This weekend I will attach my BB and start some rough grading – my dealer threw in the ballast box because he will not sell a tractor without one. But it may be that just the Box Blade will suffice for overall ballasting of the 2305.
Other than the dealer not tightening all the FEL hydraulic lines, one of which became so loose that I lost considerable amount of fluid – I just love this thing (6.5 hours and climbing).
Oh have a lt180 that I use for grass upkeep up to the time I can rid myself of my overabundance of granite – need a real backhoe for this job <grin>, then I will upgrade the 2305 to include a mmm. I also see a use for a rear rake….
--bud--
Anyway started clearing standing deadwood off the property this past weekend – hopefully I will never have to make use of a wheelbarrow again. After about 10 trips from the back forty to our fire pit my wife asked that I start using another route as I was creating tracks over the ‘good’ part of the property. So even turf tires will leave tracks over time, granted I was carrying a great deal of weight. I really opted for the turfs because of concern with turf destruction so I would think either would be okay but maybe the r4’s would be better for traction, I did notice some traction issues in the mud.
I had my ballast box on during this time (have no fill in my tires) and the tractor preformed great. I even dug out a good 600lb+ granite rock using the FEL (no toothbar as of yet – but I see the need). Moved partially cut remainders (4’ – 4’6” diameter 8’ long) of a very large pine tree with ease, did not lift just pushed them over to another area for further cutting.
This weekend I will attach my BB and start some rough grading – my dealer threw in the ballast box because he will not sell a tractor without one. But it may be that just the Box Blade will suffice for overall ballasting of the 2305.
Other than the dealer not tightening all the FEL hydraulic lines, one of which became so loose that I lost considerable amount of fluid – I just love this thing (6.5 hours and climbing).
Oh have a lt180 that I use for grass upkeep up to the time I can rid myself of my overabundance of granite – need a real backhoe for this job <grin>, then I will upgrade the 2305 to include a mmm. I also see a use for a rear rake….
--bud--
OP
cast_and_blast
Platinum Member
Update:
I sealed the deal early yesterday afternoon. Here's what is on order:
JD 2305 with turf tires
200CX loader
4020 Ballast box
62C MMM with mechanical lift (not independent lift)
IMatch quick hitch
ROPS light cages
Not sure of the delivery date yet - should give me some time to make room.
Thanks to everyone for your help and advice - I'm betting I'll be extremely happy with this setup!
Scott
I sealed the deal early yesterday afternoon. Here's what is on order:
JD 2305 with turf tires
200CX loader
4020 Ballast box
62C MMM with mechanical lift (not independent lift)
IMatch quick hitch
ROPS light cages
Not sure of the delivery date yet - should give me some time to make room.
Thanks to everyone for your help and advice - I'm betting I'll be extremely happy with this setup!
Scott
JDFANATIC
Veteran Member
Congrats! Post some pics when she comes in!
stuarth
Gold Member
Do you have any pictures of the catcher and is it a three point hook up or four? thanks
OP
cast_and_blast
Platinum Member
If your post was for me I did not buy a grass catcher for it yet.
Scott
Scott
ducati996
Banned
cast_and_blast said:For now, I think I'll stick with the ballast box as I'm just not sure what I'll want/need to hang off the back. I did like the idea of visiting the local tire shops to collect old lead wheel balancing weights and loading up the ballast box with that before filling with concrete. I also like the idea of putting a few pieces of plastic pipe in the ballast box to serve as tool holders for long handled tools.
Any more thoughts? I do believe I'll be placing the order this AM.
Scott
Just a footnote, if you fill with portland cement (which is heavier than regular cement (less rocks in it, a smoother consistancy) for all practical purposes that alone may bring you at the max weight limits or more. I can only guess adding lead weights will push you over, and possibly the 3pt wont lift it. I filled my weight box with portland, and its got to be at least 800 lbs (best guess). I think the boxes are the same between models for the most part
