Reversing Front Wheels

[lreops]

Have this posted over in "Tire and Wheels" with little response, so I thought that I'd also try over here:

I know I've seen a conversation about reversing the front wheels for a wider stance somewhere but can't find it.

So, my question is, by reversing the front axle wheels to obtain a wider footprint, does it create a more significant strain on front end components? The laws of Physics tell me that there must be additional forces, but I want to know if those extra forces are really significant. Also, by doing this, is the added stability really noticed and does it aid when using the FEL?

Thanks for any and all inpout.

Ron

 

[MagKarl]

In short, yes, it will put more stress on the front end. Too much? Hard to say. What does your manual say? My manual shows track width adjustment for 2wd front ends and rear wheels only. Flipping front wheels on the 4wd models is not shown as one of the width options for my tractor, maybe yours is different.

With a center pivot front axle, unless you are maxed out on the front pivot, the rear wheels are providing your side to side stability. Max those out for width and fill them. Keep the loaded bucket low when practical, be ready to drop the load or stomp the clutch when you're in a bad spot but elect to go for it anyway. Think about ROPS and seat belt use.

Another thing to think about is your bucket width relative to the tires. Wider makes it hard to cut up against stuff.

 

[Bulldog]

You might get by with reversing them without a loader but with one it will cost you in the end. It just puts to much strain on the axle.

 

[ipz2222]

It also makes it harder to steer.
magkarl is 100% right about the rear wheels being the stability of the tractor. It's allmost impossible to explain but if you ever see it in a drawing, you'll understand why so many people turn these things over.