TC18 with FEL, no power steering?

[Anonymous Poster]

Does anyone have or used a FEL on the TC18 4wd hydro without power steering? I am looking at a used TC18, it has everything I want except PS. I plan on getting a FEL and other rear attachments. Will it be too difficult to handle with a load? Thank you for any input. This board I'm sure will prove to be invaluable once I have bought my new tractor.

 

[Bird]

I haven't had a TC18, but I did have a '95 B7100 Kubota, hydro, 4WD, with FEL and no power steering that I think was comparable. The only time it seemed hard to steer was with a load in the FEL and if it was loaded to the maximum, you just had to be moving a little instead of sitting still to turn. Another consideration, if you have no power steering, is the fact that if you hit a rut, stump, or even a clod in soft dirt with a front wheel, it can whip the steering wheel around fast enough to break a thumb or finger if you get careless. Of course that won't happen if you have both hands on the steering wheel, or just a good grip on it.

 

[Steelfan]

Hi Whatever,

As you can see we've got some great people on here, and Bird is one of them. Anyway, I've got a TC21d with power steering so I wouldn't be much help, but I would strongly suggest that if you buy this tractor, you get counter weight for your three point hitch. First it will help some by taking some weight off of your front tires. And secondly it will keep the rear tires on the ground. When I first got my TC21 there was a problem with that. I loaded my tires, but I would recommend, a rear mount weight in your case to help balance weight on your front tires. Correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems to make sense.

Kent