What is heaviest material for ballast box?

[mscheeer772]

I filled myBallast box with lead wheel weights and lead bars. The ballast box is made by JD(Titan?). Anyone guess what the weight would be?

 

[Patricia R. Grace]

I realize this post is from 2018, but I just found it while researching ballast box materials, and it was really helpful. The discussion around lead, concrete, and steel gave me a clearer perspective on pros and cons. For anyone exploring further, newer references also highlight how different dense materials compare in cost and safety, which adds another layer to the decision. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences here.

 

[404nouser]

For max weight you could fill with platinum coins then fill the gaps with grout mix to secure it. Not very economical though ( my pocketbook won't let me)
For cheap scrap metal and the same grout mix, or without the grout if you want to be able to adjust it later.