Weight bar for iMatch

[gary_dsc]

On my 445, I had a custom built bar to mount on the 3PH on which I could mount suitcase weights. Does anyone know of an attachment that can be used with iMatch to hold suitcase weights? I'd like to be able to add weight for plowing snow, but really don't need the ballast box. It would be nice if it had a hitch receiver as well, but that isn't a requirement.

 

[gordon21]

I have never seen one. You could easily make one with a piece of flat bar steel about 3/8" thick by 4" wide by 22" long. Weld a round rod/pin on both ends at the top of the bar. That way the bar will hang down and be able to pivot freely. Slip a bushing over the rod and lock into place on the i-match.

 

[kennyd]

I have never seen anything like that either...But it wouldn't be hard to make if you have a welder or a friend that does?

Do you already have the weights? If so how may?
If you do not have any weights, then I would reconsider the ballast box-the JD 40lb suitcase weights are about $1 dollar a pound, at that price you could get the ballast box cheaper for the amount of weight you need on the 3PH to be effective.

 

[gary_dsc]

Yes, I already have 6 of the 42 lb. suitcase weights. I bought them used when I got a loader for my 445 which I have since sold. My thinking was that where I live, the snow generally doesn't get very deep and I just need enough weight on the rear end to allow the tires to grip when I'm using the front blade. I have a ballast box that I use with the FEL and it offers plenty of weight, but probably more than I need for this application. In any case, it takes up a lot more room when mounted on the tractor. I was thinking that I could use the suitcase weights to provide the necessary traction and when mounted, will occupy much less space in my garage.

I'm not a very good welder, so I was hoping that somebody made a weight bar for the 3PH. I guess my next move is to take some measurements of the iMatch and find somebody that can make up something for me.

Thanks for the responses.