Table of Contents
Advertisement
Wheel Width:
Set wheel widths as wide as possible.
Lift Links: Adjust lift links until they are equal length.
Tractor Ballast: It is imperative when attaching 'third-party' equipment to a tractor that the maximum possible
stability of the machine and tractor combination is achieved – this can be accomplished by the utilization of
'ballast' in order to counter-balance the additional equipment added.
Front weights may be required to place 20% of total outfit weight on the front axle for stable transport on the
road and to reduce 'crabbing' due to the drag of the cutting unit when working on the ground.
Rear weights may be required to maintain a reasonable amount of rear axle load on the opposite wheel from
the arms when in work; for normal off-ground work i.e. hedge cutting this should be 20% of rear axle weight or
more for adequate control, and for ground work i.e. grass mowing with experienced operators, this can be
reduced to 10%. All factors must be addressed in order to match the type and nature of the equipment added
to the circumstances under which it will be used. The center of gravity on a Bush Hog 1660 Boom Mower will
constantly change as the boom or cutting attachment moves. Maintaining proper balance during operation and
transport is critical.
Factors that affect stability:
•
Center of gravity of the tractor/machine combination.
•
Geometric conditions, e.g. position of the cutting head and ballast.
•
Weight, track width and wheelbase of the tractor.
•
Acceleration, braking, turning and the relative position of the cutting head during these
•
operations.
•
Ground conditions, e.g. slope, grip, load capability of the soil/surface.
•
Rigidity of implement mounting.
Suggestions to increase stability:
•
Increasing rear wheel track; a tractor with a wider wheel track is more stable.
•
Ballasting the wheel; it is preferable to use external weights but liquid can be added to around 75% of the
tire volume – water with anti-freeze or the heavier Calcium Chloride alternative can be used.
•
Addition of weights – care should be taken in selecting the location of the weights to ensure they are added
to a position that offers the greatest advantage.
•
Front axle locking; a cylinder can be used to 'lock' the front axle in work only – locking the axle moves the
'balance line' and can be used to transfer weight to the front axle from the rear (check with tractor
manufacturer).
The advice above is offered as a guide for stability only and is not a guide to tractor strength - it is therefore
recommended that you consult your tractor manufacturer or local dealer to obtain specific advise on this
subject, additionally advice should be sought from a tire specialist with regard to tire pressures and ratings
suitable for the type and nature of the machine you intend to fit.
RMB 1660 01/22
© 2022 Alamo Group Inc.
ASSEMBLY
Assembly Section 3-6
Advertisement
Chapters
Table of Contents
