ARK Loader on a 300, 400, 500 Series

[boovuc 1,090]

I have a question on the FEL I just bought. Looking at the picture, I can almost guess that ARK and Wheelhorse didn't design the subframe rear axle mounts to incorporate wooden blocks!

(But by the grace of God, it is a hardwood)! Oak I think!

That said, what was used to go over the axle to fasten the subframe? (The ARK manual we have in the download section mounts on a D series and the other is on a Simplicity).

Any pictures and dimensions would help and I can do a fabrication.

 

Also...............I need some confirmation as to what ARK recommended as a hydraulic medium? I thought that ARK's used 10w 30 motor oil but I would guess a non-detergent???

I know Kwikways used Hydraulic Oil. What do you ARK owners use?

 

Many Thanks!

 

 

[pfrederi 17,645]

I use 10w30 detergent oil per the manual...I do not believe Non-detergent multi grade exists.

[Wmanning416 9]

I use automatic transmission fluid in mine. Works great. Never had an issue.

[MalMac 1,331]

Ark manual recommends, motor oil , As far as the wood blocks, my manual does not show them. Remember there is no filter from the factory on the loader. Some guys have put them on. I just pay close attention to the color of the oil when I check the level. If it starts to go from clear to dark it's getting dirty. If I use the loader hard then I change it more often. Also don't be surprised on how hot it gets.

[boovuc 1,090]

Thanks everyone. (You know your right about non-detergent multi grades. I never even thought about that).

I won't be hooking it up until I get a weld on one of the axle brackets. I was wondering how much oil these hold? I see the "model" ARK Loader made for the D series holds about 6 quarts out of the crate when everything is primed. The gentleman that steered me in the direction of this loader, Ramairformula74, unhooked it from the 312-8 it was on and drained the oil from the pump base which I would assume the larger hose being the suction line from the reservoir, would have drained most of the oil out of it.

I need to make some "stands" also so my neighbor and I aren't wrestling with it for it's inaugural run.

Does anyone have any stand designs they want to share, hit me with a PM on the site.

Thanks Again!

[pfrederi 17,645]

Here is what I use to get mine off a D200.  2x4 and 1/2" rod.  Mine has to be tall so you can clear the turning brake pedals. Set the bucket on the ground put the stands in the eye hole of the loader angled to the back.  Lift up on the cross bar while standing on the tractor the legs will swing down and then support the loader.  Just back the tractor out.

 

 

 
 

[boovuc 1,090]

Slick! Thanks!