wheel weights? why not?

[ctgoldwing]

I have read many posts about loading tires but not so about simply adding wheel weights. Is there some reason not to do this? Not enough weight is the only possibility I could see but how much is enough? I am using a L3400 and there are plenty of times I just spin those wheels. . .

 

[crazyal]

I think wheel weights are a good idea. I'm not sure how much they cost and what's out there though. With weights you could take them off if you didn't want the weight while doing something. I don't know how easy they are to put on and take off though. I'm currently using a 55 gallon drum on the 3pt for weight, cheap and I can take it off in less than a minute.

 

[smstonypoint]

Here's a thread that discusses some of the issues involved.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/kubota-buying-pricing/186299-ballast-box-vs-wheel-weights.html

Steve

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Lots and lots of $$$. If your lucky and can find some after market ones that will work, about a dollar a pound. Weights costs from the tractor manufacturer, :shocked: usually a LOT more.

As far as ease of removal, a few bolts and a broken back will usually get it done. But unless you have a smaller tractor and mowing your lawn, why bother? You would be waaaaaay better off filling your tires. It is almost unbelievable how much better a tractor handles and how much better it's capabilities are with just the tires being filled. Oh, I have 6 sets of factory Mahindra wheel weights on my 7520, not enough weight, I still had to fill my tires. :thumbsup:

 

[klrobert]

My dad has an L3400 with the wheel weights. For some reason, he would not get the tires loaded. Having operated his some, I can say the wheel weights definitely help, but they are not the same as having loaded tires. They help some with traction, but just do not give the same stability that loaded tires do. As you know, the L3400 is fairly narrow and in my opinion is not as stable as some of the larger tractors. I would definitely go for the loaded tires.

 

[k0ua]

Load the tires, And put about 750 lbs on the 3 pt. and your wheel spin days are over. Also your "fear factor" shall we say will go way down, and your ability to push/pull and do other tractor things will go way up! It really is that simple. Just do it.
James K0UA

 

[grnspot110]

Wheel weights might be expensive, but then so are new rims when the calcium chloride eats the old ones up! ~~ grnspot110

 

[TripleR]

As mentioned, there are lots of threads on this. The bottom line is that you absolutely have to have enough weight on the back end to get full use of your machine if you are using a loader or pulling anything.

We have three tractors without any added weight, but they are only used on flat land pulling rotary cutters with a little box blade work on gravel.

 

[TripleR]

Wheel weights might be expensive, but then so are new rims when the calcium chloride eats the old ones up! ~~ grnspot110

Agreed, but there are lots of other options.

 

[Gary Fowler]

If you want to use calcium chloride in the water to add weight and keep the water from freezing, then just add a tube to your tires. Lots cheaper than new rims and a tube would be a lot cheaper than beet juice.