Thinking of loading my tires, GT 500

12 years ago

Hi Folks,

We're talking about a Craftsman GT500 about 10 years old, 26 HP Briggs, 6 speed tranny, Ag tires and Sears wheel weights.

I know how to load the tires, so don't need any advice on that.

Last winter while pushing snow (Craftsman dozer-not snow blade) I noticed that I was spinning more than I thought I should, that's with chains on. Maybe we just had wetter snow last winter, don't know.

Thinking about loading the tires for additional weight and would keep the wheel weights on as well.

I wonder about over loading the rear end, although loaded tires are theoretically less "stressful" than merely adding a weight bar on the rear of the tractor.

Tire size is 23X10.5-12 and I a chart I've attached indicates they'll hold 7 gallons or 58 lbs. per tire.

Anyone else running loaded tires and wheel weights?

Thanks for your time,

Here is a link that might be useful: tire loading capacity chart

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Comments (2)

rcbe
12 years ago
fluid in rear tire is OK - just make sure it won't freeze or attack your exposed rim steel inside and is not poisonous to environment,pets, etc. if a leak develops.
RV potable antifreeze comes to mind, but a bit pricey....
Kodibear333
12 years ago
As a retired tire dealership owner I can absolutely endorse loading your tires. All the weight in a loaded tire is unsprung weight. Meaning that the load is on the ground not your running gear. In tires as small as that I would suggest loading them with polyurethane. After installation (2 part compound) it solidifies and cannot go flat. No more punctures or leaks either. The only drawback is that I always recommended installing that in new tires so as to get the most wear out of the fill. You also have to cut the tires off the wheels when they wear out. I don't remember the exact weight but it is probably 50% heavier than liquid ballast. 75 pounds comes to mind, but it's been 10+ years since I filled any.
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