Front End Loader

[WheelHorse520H 708]

Hi all, I want to start by saying this is nothing I am starting anytime soon, it’s more of an idea and to get this thread out there for people to reply. I have a beat up, repowered 607 that I bought with plans to put a front end loader on. I don’t have the money or tools for this build yet but I want ideas and opinions from anyone and everyone. What size steel should I use? Is this even a good tractor for this build? Like I said I’m not doing anything yet but just want opinions. Thanks for chiming in,

Andrew

[WheelHorse520H 708]

Here are some photos of the machine too I forgot to post.

[peter lena 8,587]

@WheelHorse520H just my own opinion , but a fresher / newer frame would be a better start, that FEL , can easily over torque twist the narrow frame set up , seen others go to a same size set up with new ,heavier channel steel , making it many times stronger for FEL USE.  look at a bare frame and imagine it  , duplicated  with new heavier grade channel , or boxed square tubing . most of the FEL units I  have seen have been  thrashed beyond use. use this site for member ideas , as well as other lawn tractor sites , for ideas .  you might also consider an older heavy cast iron / steel tractor . bolens made a very good unit , for that , on line is a great source , good luck , pete

[peter lena 8,587]

@WheelHorse520-H just a quick scan found this for ideas, https://isavetractors.com/articles-1/best-vintage-garden-tractor-for-a-front-end-loader/  good pictures and ideas, remember once you go to  ( powered leverage advantage )  you are in another league , pete

[WheelHorse520H 708]

19 minutes ago, peter lena said:

@WheelHorse520-H just a quick scan found this for ideas, https://isavetractors.com/articles-1/best-vintage-garden-tractor-for-a-front-end-loader/  good pictures and ideas, remember once you go to  ( powered leverage advantage )  you are in another league , pete

Thanks Pete, that’s actually where I got the idea. But the I did not know about the frame being too weak.

[peter lena 8,587]

@WheelHorse520H frame in its original intended state , was solid , but when you start adding hundreds of pounds , attached and hanging  way outside of the original strength area , and then adding hydraulic leverage twist to that , that's what creates problems. if you compare that to a purpose built , FEL  you will instantly see and feel the ease of workability. this only my opinion on this intended build up, but if you proceed  further into the possible build , you will be looking at a thorough result of what works, pete     

[littleredrider 409]

I'd think if the subframe is heavy enough, and have enough points where it connects to the frame, as well as the rear axle, then the stock frame would be OK. The loader I have is a home made one, and the arms aren't that thick, maybe 1/8". I picked up a truck axle that weighs an easy 500lbs, other than not being able to steer or back up, it picked it fine. Steering is gonna be an issue, even with the reduction on my 520, with a load it's still hard to steer. Being a short frame your gonna have to have a quite a bit of counterweight on the back. Mine has 25x12x12s on 10" wide wheels, liquid filled, and still wasn't enough. 

[WheelHorse520H 708]

Mostly what I need it for as of right now is to dig into the driveway and remove a bunch of dirt that has been pushed off to the sides over 5 or so years. The dozer blade just doesn’t work for that.

[953 nut 55,113]

A mid mounted grader blade would be your best bet for grading a driveway.

 

[WheelHorse520H 708]

47 minutes ago, 953 nut said:

A mid mounted grader blade would be your best bet for grading a driveway.

 

It’s more to dig into the sides, our plow guys that we’ve had over the years dig down too deep and push the gravel off with the snow and after so long it packs itself in. I wanted a mid mount blade for other things and just could not find them.