RFM Questions

[Koby]

Hey gang. I am considering mowing with my CUT next season.
It is a JD 4110 with FEL and loaded R4s. Ground clearance necessary so a MMM is not an option. I plan to drain the tires and go with easily removeable wheel weights instead. Since I use the FEL often, I'd rather not remove the whole frame it every time I mow, probably only the bucket. Does anyone mow with the FEL on, or is it better to remove it to protect the lawn? Also, If I do remove the loader, will I then need front mounted weights with the RFM? Thanks for your insight.

 

[ns_in_tex]

Hi Koby,
I do similar to what you describe. I also use the loader a lot, but always remove loader before mowing. So this means swapping each way about once a week. The loader removes in a couple of minutes but probably takes 10 minutes to swap from mower to rear counter balance which I like to use for weight with loader. barrel picture

I do not need front weight for finish mower.

 

[Henro]

<font color="blue"> If I do remove the loader, will I then need front mounted weights with the RFM? </font>

I think most RFMs run on the ground supported by a wheel at each corner, or at least supported by a wheel or two somewhere. So when mowing, the tractor does not hold up much, if any of the mower's weight.

You will need to consider whether you need extra weight on the front of your tractor when you are transporting the mower. When transporting it, you lift the mower off the ground by raising the 3PH. If you don't have enought weight on the front, that is the time you may start doing wheelies...

 

[RoyJackson]

Why do you want to drain the tires? Suggest you not do this unless there is a problem when you're cutting your grass. Even if there are tracks from the tractor, give it a day or so to see if the lawn springs back.

I rarely mow with the loader on. I was also concerned about the need for front weights...turned out to be a non-issue, however. But I do not transport the RFM except to go across the drive or when I'm putting the machine in the garage. If I'm on the grass, even if just driving across, the RFM is lowered.

You should try it without weights first (also, sans FEL) to see how it feels. Might not be an issue with you either.

I drop the loader off since I cut close to a house, fence and a couple trees. The extra length of the FEL is a bit of a hassle. Also, the extra weight of the loader frame puts mass (higher COG) above the axles. Not a thrilling thing when I'm on the slopes.

As mentioned, I wouldn't drain the liquid from the rear tires. That weight is as low as you can get it...providing more stability when you're mowing.

 

[Koby]

Thanks guys. Loader removal is simple, sounds like that's the way to go, and it would keep weight off the front wheels. Maybe that would lighten the tractor enough so that the rear wheels could remain filled, and not cause too much damage. I'm toying with the idea of switching from fluid fill to weights for the ability to adjust weight if needed, and the rims are starting to rust around valve (tubes). Maybe more of a hassle than its potentially worth.
Henro-thanks for not convincing me that I need a subcompact also. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif