B2601 heavy loader load, hard steering

[msmcknight]

Hi guys,

I have a new (50hrs) B2601 and have noticed that if I have a heavy load on the front -- bucket full of wet dirt or forks with logs -- that it becomes harder to steer and it sounds like the front steering is struggling. The loader is able to lift the load, so I wouldn't think I'm overloading anything, but this is my first tractor and I'm still learning.

I always have at least 600lbs of rear ballast.

Any ideas as to what might be going on? Is it normal? Should I worry?

 

[eipo]

Normal... It helps to be moving a little when turning with a load on the front.

 

[dirtydeed]

Front tires aired up for "loader work"? What tire type is on it?

R4's are typically heavier ply and don't squash as much as other types.

One more question...are you in 2wd or 4wd? 4wd with a heavy load will take a bit more steering effort.

 

[msmcknight]

Tires are R4's. I don't really notice the tires squashing much, just that steering becomes a little tougher. Most of the time I'm in 2WD, but sometimes in 4WD if I'm in the mud working.

I do try to roll a bit as I turn... similar to a car w/o power steering. I just wanted to make sure something wasn't wrong when it felt like the tractor was "struggling" a little bit under load... mainly so I didn't unwittingly break something.

Thanks to all of you who replied so quickly!

 

[Mainah]

I’d try increasing the ballast to 1k lbs and you’ll see an improvement. You should have as much weight for ballast as you’re trying to lift.

 

[troverman]

It is normal for the steering to get harder with a heavy front load. Try running the engine at full throttle and see if the steering improves. More rear weight would also help.