Textron Ransomes CT445, Operator Instructions Manual

Page: 28 / 74

26
OPERATION
TRACTOR WEIGHTING
To obtain sufficient traction for maximum
performance in heavy draft operations and to
counterbalance rear mounted equipment, weight
should be added to the tractor in the form of liquid
ballast, cast iron weights, as shown in Figure 37 and
38, or a combination of both. Only enough weight
should be added to provide good traction and stability.
Adding more weight than is needed results in
unnecessary soil compaction and increased rolling
resistance and thus higher fuel consumption.
NOTE: When adding weight, adhere to the tyre load
capacities. Refer to “Tyre Pressure” and the “Tyre
Inflation Versus Permissible Load” table on page 28
and 29.
WEIGHTING FOR STABILITY
Front end ballast may be required for stability and
steering control when weight is transferred from the
front wheels to the rear wheels as the implement is
raised by the tractor 3-point hitch.
As a general guide
Ballast the tractor (less implement) so that
approximately 1/3 of the tractor weight is on the
front wheels. For optimum traction, tractor equipped
with FWD should be ballasted so 40-45% of machine
weight is on front wheels.
When a mounted implement is raised to the
transport position, the front wheel reaction should be
at least 20% of tractor weight.
Add additional front end ballast as required for
stability during operation and transport. Tractor front
end ballast may not always maintain satisfactory
stability if the tractor is operated at high speed on
rough terrain. Reduce tractor speed and exercise
caution under these conditions.
When using front mounted equipment, add weight
to the rear axle to maintain good traction and
stability.
WARNING: If proper stability cannot be obtained
within the weighting limitations below, reduce the
load on the tractor until stability is obtained.
IMPORTANT: Do not exceed the tyre load and
inflation specifications in the Tyre Inflation vs.
Permissible Load Chart, page 29.
WEIGHTING LIMITATIONS
The weighting limitations that follow are limitations
only; they do not imply that the tractor should be
weighted to obtain the weights shown. Use only
enough weight to obtain good performance, and do
not exceed the tyre load capacities.
Total Vehicle Weight
Do not add weight exceeding the following
Front End - 165 lbs.
Rear Wheels - 264 lbs. plus liquid ballast.
LIQUID BALLAST (OPTIONAL)
It is a common practice to add weight to the tractor
by filling the rear tires with liquid. A calcium chloride
(CaCI
2
) and water solution is recommended due to its
low freezing point and greater density (weight per
gallon) than water. Never exceed the total
recommended weight for the tractor. Because
special equipment is required to fill the tires, we
recommend that you consult your RANSOMES
Tractor Dealer. Tires should never be filled beyond
75% (tyre filled to the valve stem when valve stem is
at its highest point at the top of the wheel).
CAST IRON WEIGHTS (OPTIONAL)
Cast iron weights are a factory installed option or
are available as accessories from your RANSOMES
Dealer. Weights can be mounted on the front end of
the tractor, and on the rear wheels as shown in
Figure 37 and 38.