Thanks for the feedback. I was thinking originally of removing the lift cylinder pins from the bottom of the base frame to remove the loader, but leaving them on and removing their top pins from the boom makes more sense. I found a manual for the 500 loader, and it shows a curved support stand supporting the loader when removed from the tractor. If I don't want to take up room in the shed using an overhead come-along, I might try to fabricate a stand. Either way it is going to be more than a 5 min job to remove/replace the loader, but it is a pain when mowing. Of course, as soon as it is off, I will need it for something and have to put it right back on.
Chad, thanks for the heads up on the quick attach adapter. That actually might be the best alternative to removing the loader arms all the time. Without a large front bucket, the arms themselves aren't too intrusive, and I can change the front attachments quickly.
Not that I'm the first to say it, but the D17 IV is just as capable a tractor as any of the $40K+ foreign stuff currently available. With live hydraulics and pto, factory 3ph and loader, it is quite the tractor. I took time to add a 2nd remote, and keep the position and draft control lubricated and adjusted, so the hydraulics all work like new. I really wouldn't trade it for a new machine even if it was free. One day I'll get around to a good paint job, and then it will look as good as it runs.
Topic Options
Post Options
Thanks(0)
