what do you fill tractor tires with for weight

Tractors are heavy machines that are used in agriculture for tasks such as plowing, cultivating, and planting. In order to ensure stability, tractors have weighted tires that increase their traction and prevent excessive movements. However, not everyone knows what to fill tractor tires with to achieve the desired weight. This article is aimed at providing insights on different materials that can be used to fill tractor tires for weight.

Water

Water is one of the most straightforward materials that can be used to fill tractor tires for weight. It is cheap, easy to access, and readily available. To fill tractor tires with water, one needs to attach a valve to the tire and fill it until the desired weight is achieved. However, one should note that hydraulic pressure can cause the tire to burst if it exceeds the maximum pressure limit. Therefore, it's essential to adhere to the tire manufacturer's safety guidelines when using water.

Calcium Chloride

Calcium Chloride is another viable material that can be used to fill tractor tires for weight. The material is a salt that is readily soluble in water and forms a brine solution. Calcium Chloride is ideal for tractors that operate in wet and muddy areas as it also increases traction. Additionally, it has a lower freezing point, making it an excellent alternative to water in colder areas. However, one should ensure that the tire is compatible with Calcium Chloride as it can cause rusting and corrosion if used on non-recommended tires.

Sand

Sand is also a popular material that farmers use to fill tractor tires for weight. It is readily available, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly. One can use wet or dry sand to achieve the desired weight in the tire. Wet sand is more effective as it packs more tightly, but it is also messy and complicated to install. Dry sand, on the other hand, is easier to handle but may not be as effective in achieving the desired weight.

Rim Guard

Rim Guard is a non-toxic ballast material that is made from ethylene glycol and water. It is biodegradable, easy to install, and has a lower freezing point than water. As a result, it is ideal for tractors used in cold environments. Additionally, it is not bulky and does not require significant tire alterations. Rim Guard is, however, more expensive than other ballast materials like water and sand.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are different materials that farmers can use to fill tractor tires for weight. Water and sand are readily available and inexpensive, but they may not be suitable for all types of tractors. On the other hand, materials like Calcium Chloride and Rim Guard are more effective in increasing traction and preventing excessive movements, especially in wet and muddy environments. However, they are more expensive than water and sand. To ensure safety, farmers must adhere to the tire manufacturer's guidelines when using ballast materials in their tractors.