Loaders

Yesterday, I goes into town to check on how my old tractor is coming along at the repair shop.

While I was there, I got to looking at a 4020 JD, which had a relatevely new AGCO 745 (Farmhand) loader mounted on it.

Boy, I gotta tell ya. The more I see of these front-hang loaders, the less I like 'em.

Now, I realize full well that all loaders are hard on a tractor, especially in the clutch area. But, the way these new ones are designed, it is a wonder any tractor lasts for very long under one of 'em.

The one I was eyeballing must have weighed 2 ton while it was on the ground, empty! Completely lowered, the back of the bucket was still a good 3 1/2 feet out in front of the front wheels and all of that mounting hardware was strapped right up along the forward engine area.

I didn't like this design when they came out in the 70s and I like 'em even less now.

Call me old fashioned, but give me a loader that at least partially mounts to the rear axle and puts the weight across the complete tractor instead of just pointing it all at that front end.

Not to mention, the price tags on these things are $7K!

Rant over,

Allan

Yes, both Dual and Farmhand also made those front hangers with the heavy bracing back to the axle as well.

I still like these old F-25s that throw that load back on the rear axle. Maybe I can get Nebraska Cowman to find me one at all the auctions he goes to. Heck of a loader, I think.

Allan

Sounds interesting! I would like to have a loader for my Farmall C or Super C. A small one that can handle heavy loads of rocks, loam, etc. Any input would be helpful. Thanks!

Bob

Where do you live? Will it fit on my C's with wide front end? Thanks.

Bob

Nebraska, I haven't been there for a long time, 8 years may be. Around Licoln, then out to Lexington on a service call. It would cost more than you would sell it for to have it shipped out my way. I appreciate the offer though, thanks.

Bob

OK Thanks.

Bob

Mike Lupo up in MT has his set up like this. Kinda a nifty little outfit.

Allan

Well, actually, there are a lot of "rear axle mount" loaders that are designed to clear the cab.

I agree however, that the whole idea of these front hangers originated with the problem of the cabs being in the way of the loader (or, the "tother way around).

But wow! You can just stand there and see the strain placed on that front axle assembly. Whew! Gives me heartburn. :>)

But, I guess lots of em been hangin" out front like that for lots of years, too. Hmmmm

Allan

Im doing 4x4 square tubing from the rear axle to the front of the side mount plates. Im also trying to retain the ability to mount the tractor from the front, not just the rear (does anyone else hate stepping over that damn seat suspension?). 1/2way completed, Im very impressed with its rigitity.