Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....

I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)

But, here's my dilemma...

I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?

On 6/02/2022 3:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>
> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
> 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
> missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
> china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
> and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
> Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
> sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
> wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
> smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
>
>

Nice :-)

> But, here's my dilemma...
>
> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>
>

Up to 12 months should be OK if it's properly stored in cool condition
but if storage conditions are not ideal or the period longer I'd add a
biocide/stabiliser. Don't feed old fuel to a common rail diesel.

On Sunday, 6 February 2022 at 18:59:53 UTC+11, Clocky wrote:
> On 6/02/2022 3:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
> > Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
> >
> > I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
> > 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
> > missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
> > china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
> > and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
> > Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
> > sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
> > wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
> > smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
> >
> >
> Nice :-)
> > But, here's my dilemma...
> >
> > I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
> > and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
> > was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
> > it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
> > time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
> > months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
> >
> >
> Up to 12 months should be OK if it's properly stored in cool condition
> but if storage conditions are not ideal or the period longer I'd add a
> biocide/stabiliser. Don't feed old fuel to a common rail diesel.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I wouldn`t feed *old* diesel to anything under warranty.
Having said that, Detroit two stroke diesels (common rail.) have been running on new, old. and everything in between since the 1930's....

On 6/02/2022 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>
> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
> 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
> missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
> china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
> and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
> Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
> sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
> wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
> smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)

Ka-ching. Enjoy :)

>
> But, here's my dilemma...
>
> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?

You'd probably be safer using one drum and refilling it more often.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On 6/2/22 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>
> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
> 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
> missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
> china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
> and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
> Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
> sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
> wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
> smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)

Nice, takes a bit of getting used to but I'm sure you will figure it
out, hope it goes well:-)
>
>
> But, here's my dilemma...
>
> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>

Biggest problem with diesel is that it absorbs water, best way to avoid
problems with diesel is to always keep the tanks full, top up the tanks
whenever you finish with the tractor for the day.
Having large volumes sitting around for a long time is not a great idea,
drums need to kept out of the weather and well sealed, also a good idea
to store diesel drums off the ground with a drain tap at the bottom so
that you can drain off any water.
Diesel can solidify in very cold conditions so in winter the diesel you
buy will be winter diesel which has an additive to keep it liquid so
diesel you buy in summer may be a problem in winter.
As Noddy suggested its most likely a better idea to have one 200lt or
smaller drum which you refill as needed.

--
Daryl

lindsay wrote:
>
>I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>

If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
a pump which can be another source of contamination.

Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
mandatory but many are)? If it is there are issues you might need to
be aware of.

--
John H

Thanks to all who replied....

On 7/02/2022 9:10 am, John_H wrote:
> lindsay wrote:
>>
>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>
>
> If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
> already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
> storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
> for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
> plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
> a pump which can be another source of contamination.

I already have a new rotary hand pump for 200l drums, and I was trying
to get away from plastic fuel drums, esp in summer... 20l drums are
easier to transport, but the filler cap is on top of the engine cowl.
bit of a pain to fill from 20l drums...

> Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
> mandatory but many are)?

yep i believe this is whats in mine:
https://kubota.com.au/product/v2403-m-t/

> If it is there are issues you might need to
> be aware of.

So dont keep me in suspenders...??? Emmisions issues?? dealer says it
doesnt require adblue, and doesnt have a DPF so maybe it's not tier 4..?

Cheers...

On 7/02/2022 7:24 am, Peter Jason wrote:
> On Sun, 6 Feb 2022 18:35:31 +1100, lindsay
> <nope@nunnya.business.com.au> wrote:
>
>> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>>
>> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
>> 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
>> missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
>> china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
>> and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
>> Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
>> sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
>> wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
>> smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
>>
>>
>> But, here's my dilemma...
>>
>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>
>
>
> https://kendrickoil.com/how-to-store-diesel-fuel/#:~:text=The%20fuel%20should%20be%20stored,on%20top%20of%20the%20tank.
> https://www.polydieseltanks.com.au/storingdieselonsite.htm
> https://agriculture.coerco.com.au/agriculture-news/10-frequently-asked-questions-on-diesel-storage-and-cartage-tanks
> https://www.fleetequipmentmag.com/pros-and-cons-of-long-term-fuel-storage/
> https://www.tanknology.com/wordpress/TanknologyWeb/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Tanknology-FMN-Fall-2016-Diesel-Corrosion-Article.pdf

cheers, i'll take a look...
>

On 6/02/2022 10:27 pm, Daryl wrote:
> On 6/2/22 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
>> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>>
>> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years fibreglassing,
>> 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF need air to air
>> missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they are pointed at
>> china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one basket, for 35 years,
>> and that basket is about to start laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D
>> Contrary to the so called business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be
>> sold ( have 2 prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i
>> wont cop any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
>> smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
>
> Nice, takes a bit of getting used to but I'm sure you will figure it
> out, hope it goes well:-)

I'm sure it will, as I'll have some toys to play with.. boat(?), tractor
with FEL, tree puller... also got a new duel zone fridge/freezer, which
now means I'll be just about completely independent when i go up the
block for weeks at a time. Fill it with frozen meat, chicken, fish, and
no trips into town required. Unless for fuel (rare.) Bro is hounding me
to get to Perth, he's got a new house with a finger jetty for his boat
(no more trailering) and apparently the water is so warm the Leuwinn
current is bringing the Spanish Macks down south. Cant go now, but who
knows? next year? And then there's the cruising. Told the wife if we
have to, we'll fly to Hawaii, and get on a cruise from there! I'm gunna
have some fun after busting my arse for the taxman. :-) Not sure there
will too much left for the kids :-D

>> But, here's my dilemma...
>>
>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone
>> drums, and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new
>> tractor, i was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it
>> work?, and will it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if
>> it's getting on in time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use
>> 400-600litres of diesel in 12 months...although it's a possibility.. a
>> tank (60l) a month?
>>
>
> Biggest problem with diesel is that it absorbs water, best way to avoid
> problems with diesel is to always keep the tanks full, top up the tanks
> whenever you finish with the tractor for the day.

Good plan.

> Having large volumes sitting around for a long time is not a great idea,
> drums need to kept out of the weather and well sealed, also a good idea
> to store diesel drums off the ground with a drain tap at the bottom so
> that you can drain off any water.
> Diesel can solidify in very cold conditions so in winter the diesel you
> buy will be winter diesel which has an additive to keep it liquid so
> diesel you buy in summer may be a problem in winter.
> As Noddy suggested its most likely a better idea to have one 200lt or
> smaller drum which you refill as needed.

Yep... now thinking sticking with the 20l drums is probably the best bet.
>
>
>

On 7/2/22 6:01 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 6/02/2022 10:27 pm, Daryl wrote:
>> On 6/2/22 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>>>
>>> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years
>>> fibreglassing, 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF
>>> need air to air missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they
>>> are pointed at china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one
>>> basket, for 35 years, and that basket is about to start laying
>>> *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D Contrary to the so called business
>>> "experts" here. :-D Factory will be sold ( have 2 prospective buyers
>>> in the last 3 days) accountant says i wont cop any major tax
>>> liability when sold, and I broke out with a big smile... he asked
>>> "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
>>
>> Nice, takes a bit of getting used to but I'm sure you will figure it
>> out, hope it goes well:-)
>
>
> I'm sure it will, as I'll have some toys to play with.. boat(?), tractor
> with FEL, tree puller... also got a new duel zone fridge/freezer, which
> now means I'll be just about completely independent when i go up the
> block for weeks at a time. Fill it with frozen meat, chicken, fish, and
> no trips into town required. Unless for fuel (rare.) Bro is hounding me
> to get to Perth, he's got a new house with a finger jetty for his boat
> (no more trailering) and apparently the water is so warm the Leuwinn
> current is bringing the Spanish Macks down south. Cant go now, but who
> knows? next year? And then there's the cruising. Told the wife if we
> have to, we'll fly to Hawaii, and get on a cruise from there! I'm gunna
> have some fun after busting my arse for the taxman. :-) Not sure there
> will too much left for the kids :-D

The dilemma is how slowly or quickly to spend it, none of know when we
are going to drop off the perch, I'm 69, will I live to 92 like my mum
or drop dead in a few weeks, I've outlived my father by 5yrs.
Don't have any debts and have a reasonable amount of super and saving so
do we spend up now or keep it "just in case" is the real question.

>
>>> But, here's my dilemma...
>>>
>>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone
>>> drums, and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new
>>> tractor, i was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it
>>> work?, and will it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if
>>> it's getting on in time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use
>>> 400-600litres of diesel in 12 months...although it's a possibility..
>>> a tank (60l) a month?
>>>
>>
>> Biggest problem with diesel is that it absorbs water, best way to
>> avoid problems with diesel is to always keep the tanks full, top up
>> the tanks whenever you finish with the tractor for the day.
>
> Good plan.
>
>> Having large volumes sitting around for a long time is not a great
>> idea, drums need to kept out of the weather and well sealed, also a
>> good idea to store diesel drums off the ground with a drain tap at the
>> bottom so that you can drain off any water.
>> Diesel can solidify in very cold conditions so in winter the diesel
>> you buy will be winter diesel which has an additive to keep it liquid
>> so diesel you buy in summer may be a problem in winter.
>> As Noddy suggested its most likely a better idea to have one 200lt or
>> smaller drum which you refill as needed.
>
> Yep... now thinking sticking with the 20l drums is probably the best bet.
>>

Most likely since you already have some but one drum should be enough.

--
Daryl

On 8/02/2022 7:33 am, Peter Jason wrote:

> We have a petrol forklift and keep a few 25L heavy-duty polythene
> drums of petrol just in case.

Just in case what? How else do you fill it up? Drive it to the service
station?

> Our adventures with propane cylinders is over.

Unless you're using it everyday and mostly inside, lpg is a waste of time.

> Also, a spare drum in the boot allows a fill up when fuel prices are
> low. This sort of thing really pays off in the long run.

When are the prices ever low? :)

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

lindsay wrote:
>
>Thanks to all who replied....
>
>On 7/02/2022 9:10 am, John_H wrote:
>> lindsay wrote:
>>>
>>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>>
>>
>> If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
>> already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
>> storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
>> for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
>> plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
>> a pump which can be another source of contamination.
>
> I already have a new rotary hand pump for 200l drums, and I was trying
>to get away from plastic fuel drums, esp in summer... 20l drums are
>easier to transport, but the filler cap is on top of the engine cowl.
>bit of a pain to fill from 20l drums...

Think you'll find plastic containers are preferred over steel for
diesel but it's probably a good idea to avoid the cheapies. Last time
I looked BCF had the best ones. They also come in 10 litre if you
need something easier to handle. I'd also be very surprised if your
tractor doesn't have a plastic tank.

>
>> Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
>> mandatory but many are)?
>
>yep i believe this is whats in mine:
>https://kubota.com.au/product/v2403-m-t/
>
>> If it is there are issues you might need to
>> be aware of.
>
>So dont keep me in suspenders...??? Emmisions issues?? dealer says it
>doesnt require adblue, and doesnt have a DPF so maybe it's not tier 4..?

Maybe a smalliish engine can meet tier 4 without either and If it
doesn't have a DPF then you shouldn't have an issue. DPF equipped
engines (cars included) don't like being lightly loaded for extended
periods which is something that especially needs to be avoided with a
tractor for the DPF to purge. Consequently some manufacturers are
still importing tier 3 machines.

--
John H

On 8/02/2022 9:28 am, Peter Jason wrote:
> On Tue, 8 Feb 2022 07:36:48 +1100, Noddy <me@home.com> wrote:
>
>> On 8/02/2022 7:33 am, Peter Jason wrote:
>>
>>
>>> We have a petrol forklift and keep a few 25L heavy-duty polythene
>>> drums of petrol just in case.
>>
>> Just in case what?
>
> In case of running out. Are you paying attention? Do you know how
> districting it is when the forklift chuggs to a halt for want of fuel
> requiring a trip to the service station thru tons of traffic and with
> a large unloading truck wedged in the back yard?

Lol :)

Let me give you a heads up, and a free tip. I've had forklifts for
*many* years, and I have two of them now. I'm well versed with their
operation and what you should and shouldn't be doing. If the fuel gauge
on your forklift doesn't work then you need to repair it and pay
attention to it, as having a non working gauge would be the only way I
could think anyone would be stupid enough to run out of fuel in the
middle of unloading a truck.

It's not difficult. How often do you run out of fuel in your car?

>> How else do you fill it up? Drive it to the service
>> station?
>
> Yes of course; have you been to one of these? While filling up the
> truck we fill up a container too. Though there are some
> anal-retentive attendants who quote regulations about carrying fuel in
> one's boot.

What regulations do they quote from?

Bearing in mind that most console operators are in that role because
they're *not* rocket scientists, you are permitted to carry a certain
quantity of fuel in a vehicle provided it's in "approved" containers,
and a proper dedicated Jerrycan would be such a container. Depending on
what state you're in, the average "legal" quantity is 250 litres,
although I really couldn't see anyone putting 10 full jerrycans in the
average car boot :)

>>> Our adventures with propane cylinders is over.
>>
>> Unless you're using it everyday and mostly inside, lpg is a waste of time.
>
> Agreed, and expensive too.

The fuel itself isn't expensive and is considerably cheaper than petrol,
but the cost to impliement it can be somewhat expensive if you don't
have a dual fuel system. If you're using a forklift in a mostly indoor
environment then you don't have a lot of choice unless you think people
dying from Carbon Monoxide poisoning is an acceptable occupational hazard.

>>> Also, a spare drum in the boot allows a fill up when fuel prices are
>>> low. This sort of thing really pays off in the long run.
>>
>> When are the prices ever low? :)
>
> They gyrate. At least with our method we can get some low prices.

What, you save the price of a cup of coffee on the cost of a full Jerry
between the cheapest and most expensive parts of the fuel price cycle?
And that makes driving around with an empty Jerrycan in your boot a
worthwhile venture? :)

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On 8/02/2022 7:40 am, John_H wrote:
> lindsay wrote:
>>
>> Thanks to all who replied....
>>
>> On 7/02/2022 9:10 am, John_H wrote:
>>> lindsay wrote:
>>>>
>>>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>>>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>>>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>>>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>>>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>>>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>>>
>>>
>>> If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
>>> already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
>>> storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
>>> for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
>>> plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
>>> a pump which can be another source of contamination.
>>
>> I already have a new rotary hand pump for 200l drums, and I was trying
>> to get away from plastic fuel drums, esp in summer... 20l drums are
>> easier to transport, but the filler cap is on top of the engine cowl.
>> bit of a pain to fill from 20l drums...
>
> Think you'll find plastic containers are preferred over steel for
> diesel but it's probably a good idea to avoid the cheapies. Last time
> I looked BCF had the best ones. They also come in 10 litre if you
> need something easier to handle. I'd also be very surprised if your
> tractor doesn't have a plastic tank.

yeah, probably has. I'll know in 5 days. delivery planned for saturday.
I was steering away from plastic drums, as storing them (with fuel in
them is an issue at the moment. the red plastic petrol ones blow up like
helium balloons, so we've ditched them for new red steel jerry cans,
that wont melt and leak if a burning ember lands beside it. The
yellowish plastic diesel jerry cans are still in use at this stage as
they dont expand anything like the petrol ones, and are rarely left
there full: what doesnt go in the tractor, goes in the Ranger. We use a
lot more petrol than diesel in summer, the room has a 2.5hp aircon for
when it gets real hot 40+, and the gennie drinks like a fish. :-) And i
dont like slashing when it's hot, even if the shit is green.

>
>>
>>> Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
>>> mandatory but many are)?
>>
>> yep i believe this is whats in mine:
>> https://kubota.com.au/product/v2403-m-t/
>>
>>> If it is there are issues you might need to
>>> be aware of.
>>
>> So dont keep me in suspenders...??? Emmisions issues?? dealer says it
>> doesnt require adblue, and doesnt have a DPF so maybe it's not tier 4..?
>
> Maybe a smalliish engine can meet tier 4 without either and If it
> doesn't have a DPF then you shouldn't have an issue.

Dealer swears it doesnt have one. I asked specifically, because I saw
this video... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVaberN2lKo&t=82s and
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_I7dtpHNUw (3.00 in) although these
vids are at least 4 years old and American... Again, know more on
saturday. Seems the American MX5200's do have a dpf, or at least 'did'...

> DPF equipped
> engines (cars included) don't like being lightly loaded for extended
> periods which is something that especially needs to be avoided with a
> tractor for the DPF to purge. Consequently some manufacturers are
> still importing tier 3 machines.

And in the states, apparently some customers are actively seeking them
out. I really dont see what the big deal is, to be honest. I'll use it
how the manual and dealer tells me, and if it shits itself, it has a 6
year warranty. It will spend a fair whack of it's life in medium
gear(HST) slashing, and low, pulling wood out and using the bucket and
tree puller.

Had 2 massive dead red gum trees go down in the last few months. one of
the tractors first jobs.. pull em out and turn them into firewood with
the wood splitter.

>

On 7/02/2022 8:49 pm, Daryl wrote:
> On 7/2/22 6:01 pm, lindsay wrote:
>> On 6/02/2022 10:27 pm, Daryl wrote:
>>> On 6/2/22 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>>> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>>>>
>>>> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years
>>>> fibreglassing, 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF
>>>> need air to air missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they
>>>> are pointed at china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one
>>>> basket, for 35 years, and that basket is about to start laying
>>>> *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D Contrary to the so called business
>>>> "experts" here. :-D Factory will be sold ( have 2 prospective buyers
>>>> in the last 3 days) accountant says i wont cop any major tax
>>>> liability when sold, and I broke out with a big smile... he asked
>>>> "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
>>>
>>> Nice, takes a bit of getting used to but I'm sure you will figure it
>>> out, hope it goes well:-)
>>
>>
>> I'm sure it will, as I'll have some toys to play with.. boat(?),
>> tractor with FEL, tree puller... also got a new duel zone
>> fridge/freezer, which now means I'll be just about completely
>> independent when i go up the block for weeks at a time. Fill it with
>> frozen meat, chicken, fish, and no trips into town required. Unless
>> for fuel (rare.) Bro is hounding me to get to Perth, he's got a new
>> house with a finger jetty for his boat (no more trailering) and
>> apparently the water is so warm the Leuwinn current is bringing the
>> Spanish Macks down south. Cant go now, but who knows? next year? And
>> then there's the cruising. Told the wife if we have to, we'll fly to
>> Hawaii, and get on a cruise from there! I'm gunna have some fun after
>> busting my arse for the taxman. :-) Not sure there will too much left
>> for the kids :-D
>
> The dilemma is how slowly or quickly to spend it, none of know when we
> are going to drop off the perch, I'm 69, will I live to 92 like my mum
> or drop dead in a few weeks, I've outlived my father by 5yrs.

Heh. Wife worked for the Govt for 37 years, was there when super was
introduced in Oz, and got the same super as the pollies. SHe changed
something that bought her back to the pack, but retired a couple of
years ago @ 55. She currently gets more money per week, sitting on her
arse, than I pay myself. We'll level up when I sell the factory, and I
already have a bit in Host Plus. we could probably scrape buy on her
income if we had to, but luckily, i made the decision to buy the factory
when i did.

> Don't have any debts and have a reasonable amount of super and saving so
> do we spend up now or keep it "just in case" is the real question.

Cant take it with ya. He who dies with the most toys wins. :-)

>>> Having large volumes sitting around for a long time is not a great
>>> idea, drums need to kept out of the weather and well sealed, also a
>>> good idea to store diesel drums off the ground with a drain tap at
>>> the bottom so that you can drain off any water.
>>> Diesel can solidify in very cold conditions so in winter the diesel
>>> you buy will be winter diesel which has an additive to keep it liquid
>>> so diesel you buy in summer may be a problem in winter.

Seen it as low as -3 in the shed in winter.

>>> As Noddy suggested its most likely a better idea to have one 200lt or
>>> smaller drum which you refill as needed.
>>
>> Yep... now thinking sticking with the 20l drums is probably the best bet.
>>>
>
> Most likely since you already have some but one drum should be enough.

i'll stick to the plastic diesel drums, and the steel unleaded jerry
cans. Normally maybe have one of each full in reserve. Neighbour threw
'em, and 3x9kg lpg bottles in the dam when the bushfire came through 7
years ago? Lucky I have good neighbours.... :-)
>
>

On 8/02/2022 5:45 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 7/02/2022 8:49 pm, Daryl wrote:
>> On 7/2/22 6:01 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>> On 6/02/2022 10:27 pm, Daryl wrote:
>>>> On 6/2/22 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>>>> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>>>>>
>>>>> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years
>>>>> fibreglassing, 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the RAAF
>>>>> need air to air missile casings, which I'll supply for free if they
>>>>> are pointed at china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs in one
>>>>> basket, for 35 years, and that basket is about to start laying
>>>>> *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D Contrary to the so called business
>>>>> "experts" here. :-D Factory will be sold ( have 2 prospective
>>>>> buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i wont cop any major tax
>>>>> liability when sold, and I broke out with a big smile... he asked
>>>>> "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat" :-)
>>>>
>>>> Nice, takes a bit of getting used to but I'm sure you will figure it
>>>> out, hope it goes well:-)
>>>
>>>
>>> I'm sure it will, as I'll have some toys to play with.. boat(?),
>>> tractor with FEL, tree puller... also got a new duel zone
>>> fridge/freezer, which now means I'll be just about completely
>>> independent when i go up the block for weeks at a time. Fill it with
>>> frozen meat, chicken, fish, and no trips into town required. Unless
>>> for fuel (rare.) Bro is hounding me to get to Perth, he's got a new
>>> house with a finger jetty for his boat (no more trailering) and
>>> apparently the water is so warm the Leuwinn current is bringing the
>>> Spanish Macks down south. Cant go now, but who knows? next year? And
>>> then there's the cruising. Told the wife if we have to, we'll fly to
>>> Hawaii, and get on a cruise from there! I'm gunna have some fun after
>>> busting my arse for the taxman. :-) Not sure there will too much left
>>> for the kids :-D
>>
>> The dilemma is how slowly or quickly to spend it, none of know when we
>> are going to drop off the perch, I'm 69, will I live to 92 like my mum
>> or drop dead in a few weeks, I've outlived my father by 5yrs.
>
> Heh. Wife worked for the Govt for 37 years, was there when super was
> introduced in Oz, and got the same super as the pollies. SHe changed
> something that bought her back to the pack, but retired a couple of
> years ago @ 55.

That's what #1 son reckons that he is doing, he reckons that he'll
retire next July at 55 having spent the majority of his working life
working for the gov. He'll get an indexed pension for the rest of his
life and still be able to work 10 hours a week if he wishes. One reason
is that he has come to hate working for the gov, he could get one level
higher and get an increased pension, but that would involve interacting
with politicians and their hangers on and there just isn't enough money
to compensate for having to do that .

> She currently gets more money per week, sitting on her
> arse, than I pay myself. We'll level up when I sell the factory, and I
> already have a bit in Host Plus. we could probably scrape buy on her
> income if we had to, but luckily, i made the decision to buy the factory
> when i did.
>
>> Don't have any debts and have a reasonable amount of super and saving
>> so do we spend up now or keep it "just in case" is the real question.
>
> Cant take it with ya. He who dies with the most toys wins. :-)
>
>>>> Having large volumes sitting around for a long time is not a great
>>>> idea, drums need to kept out of the weather and well sealed, also a
>>>> good idea to store diesel drums off the ground with a drain tap at
>>>> the bottom so that you can drain off any water.
>>>> Diesel can solidify in very cold conditions so in winter the diesel
>>>> you buy will be winter diesel which has an additive to keep it
>>>> liquid so diesel you buy in summer may be a problem in winter.
>
> Seen it as low as -3 in the shed in winter.
>
>>>> As Noddy suggested its most likely a better idea to have one 200lt
>>>> or smaller drum which you refill as needed.
>>>
>>> Yep... now thinking sticking with the 20l drums is probably the best
>>> bet.
>>>>
>>
>> Most likely since you already have some but one drum should be enough.
>
>  i'll stick to the plastic diesel drums, and the steel unleaded jerry
> cans. Normally maybe have one of each full in reserve. Neighbour threw
> 'em, and 3x9kg lpg bottles in the dam when the bushfire came through 7
> years ago? Lucky I have good neighbours.... :-)
>>
>>
>

On 8/02/2022 11:03 pm, keithr0 wrote:
> On 8/02/2022 5:45 pm, lindsay wrote:
>> On 7/02/2022 8:49 pm, Daryl wrote:
>>> On 7/2/22 6:01 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>>> On 6/02/2022 10:27 pm, Daryl wrote:
>>>>> On 6/2/22 6:35 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>>>>> Life's never dull. very hard for me to get bored....
>>>>>>
>>>>>> I've decided to retire at the end of the year. 43 years
>>>>>> fibreglassing, 35 of them working for ONE customer. Unless the
>>>>>> RAAF need air to air missile casings, which I'll supply for free
>>>>>> if they are pointed at china's air farce. Yes, I had all my eggs
>>>>>> in one basket, for 35 years, and that basket is about to start
>>>>>> laying *golden* eggs. Big ones. :-D Contrary to the so called
>>>>>> business "experts" here. :-D Factory will be sold ( have 2
>>>>>> prospective buyers in the last 3 days) accountant says i wont cop
>>>>>> any major tax liability when sold, and I broke out with a big
>>>>>> smile... he asked "what are you thinking"; my reply: "bigger boat"
>>>>>> :-)
>>>>>
>>>>> Nice, takes a bit of getting used to but I'm sure you will figure
>>>>> it out, hope it goes well:-)
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I'm sure it will, as I'll have some toys to play with.. boat(?),
>>>> tractor with FEL, tree puller... also got a new duel zone
>>>> fridge/freezer, which now means I'll be just about completely
>>>> independent when i go up the block for weeks at a time. Fill it with
>>>> frozen meat, chicken, fish, and no trips into town required. Unless
>>>> for fuel (rare.) Bro is hounding me to get to Perth, he's got a new
>>>> house with a finger jetty for his boat (no more trailering) and
>>>> apparently the water is so warm the Leuwinn current is bringing the
>>>> Spanish Macks down south. Cant go now, but who knows? next year? And
>>>> then there's the cruising. Told the wife if we have to, we'll fly to
>>>> Hawaii, and get on a cruise from there! I'm gunna have some fun
>>>> after busting my arse for the taxman. :-) Not sure there will too
>>>> much left for the kids :-D
>>>
>>> The dilemma is how slowly or quickly to spend it, none of know when
>>> we are going to drop off the perch, I'm 69, will I live to 92 like my
>>> mum or drop dead in a few weeks, I've outlived my father by 5yrs.
>>
>> Heh. Wife worked for the Govt for 37 years, was there when super was
>> introduced in Oz, and got the same super as the pollies. SHe changed
>> something that bought her back to the pack, but retired a couple of
>> years ago @ 55.
>
> That's what #1 son reckons that he is doing, he reckons that he'll
> retire next July at 55 having spent the majority of his working life
> working for the gov. He'll get an indexed pension for the rest of his
> life and still be able to work 10 hours a week if he wishes.

Sounds like what the wife has done. Pay rises every 6 months, while not
working!! :-)

One reason
> is that he has come to hate working for the gov, he could get one level
> higher and get an increased pension, but that would involve interacting
> with politicians and their hangers on and there just isn't enough money
> to compensate for having to do that .

The flogs who stand behind a pollie nodding their heads in agreement at
anything they say on tv? Who does that remind you of?

Like the grandstanding fuckwits in here? I wouldn't wipe my arse with
their passports. Imagine all the nasty diseases my arse could get?

In my case, it just keeps getting better. Apparently, once the factory
is sold, there's whats called "retained earnings", which will provide me
a 6 figure sum spread over the next few years. I no complain. :-) Also
planning for the future of cruising in retirement.. just booked our 3rd
trip to the pacific islands, and have the finger hovering on a couple of
others...

>> She currently gets more money per week, sitting on her arse, than I
>> pay myself. We'll level up when I sell the factory, and I already have
>> a bit in Host Plus. we could probably scrape buy on her income if we
>> had to, but luckily, i made the decision to buy the factory when i did.
>>
>>> Don't have any debts and have a reasonable amount of super and saving
>>> so do we spend up now or keep it "just in case" is the real question.
>>
>> Cant take it with ya. He who dies with the most toys wins. :-)

Accountant didnt blink an eye when I suggested i'd be taking my mig
welder, and a crate full of cordless tools (some of which I havent
purchased yet) with me. I did ask about a new shotgun. He asked "why?" I
replied "security!": he baulked at that.. Sook. :-) The electric
forklift may need a new set of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries too.... :-)

On 8/02/2022 7:40 am, John_H wrote:
> lindsay wrote:
>>
>> Thanks to all who replied....
>>
>> On 7/02/2022 9:10 am, John_H wrote:
>>> lindsay wrote:
>>>>
>>>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>>>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>>>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>>>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>>>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>>>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>>>
>>>
>>> If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
>>> already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
>>> storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
>>> for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
>>> plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
>>> a pump which can be another source of contamination.
>>
>> I already have a new rotary hand pump for 200l drums, and I was trying
>> to get away from plastic fuel drums, esp in summer... 20l drums are
>> easier to transport, but the filler cap is on top of the engine cowl.
>> bit of a pain to fill from 20l drums...
>
> Think you'll find plastic containers are preferred over steel for
> diesel but it's probably a good idea to avoid the cheapies. Last time
> I looked BCF had the best ones. They also come in 10 litre if you
> need something easier to handle. I'd also be very surprised if your
> tractor doesn't have a plastic tank.
>
>>
>>> Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
>>> mandatory but many are)?
>>
>> yep i believe this is whats in mine:
>> https://kubota.com.au/product/v2403-m-t/
>>
>>> If it is there are issues you might need to
>>> be aware of.
>>
>> So dont keep me in suspenders...??? Emmisions issues?? dealer says it
>> doesnt require adblue, and doesnt have a DPF so maybe it's not tier 4..?
>
> Maybe a smalliish engine can meet tier 4 without either and If it
> doesn't have a DPF then you shouldn't have an issue. DPF equipped
> engines (cars included) don't like being lightly loaded for extended
> periods which is something that especially needs to be avoided with a
> tractor for the DPF to purge. Consequently some manufacturers are
> still importing tier 3 machines.

No DPF.. Quiet, comfortable, cruise control, everything the Deutz is
not. Dropped the 650kg counterweight, (tyres full of water) hooked the
slasher up to it, and away we go. Got a decent (25-30 ft firebreak
sorted). 50L fuel tank, and yes, I believe it's a plastic tank. Didnt
really have time to go over it, and the paperwork/manuals are at work.
Not even sure if it has a 12v cig socket on the dash!

Will be sticking with plastic jerry cans for diesel. Pain in the arse
when the tank cap is 6 foot off the ground...

On 18/2/22 6:30 pm, lindsay wrote:

> Accountant didnt blink an eye when I suggested i'd be taking my mig
> welder, and a crate full of cordless tools (some of which I havent
> purchased yet) with me. I did ask about a new shotgun. He asked "why?" I
> replied "security!": he baulked at that..  Sook. :-) The electric
> forklift may need a new set of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries too.... :-)
>
LOL, when we closed up the cleaning business most of the smaller items
were sold for cash all of it going straight in my pocket:-)
Accountant didn't seem to think that that was a bad idea:-)

--
Daryl

lindsay wrote:
>On 8/02/2022 7:40 am, John_H wrote:
>> lindsay wrote:
>>>
>>> Thanks to all who replied....
>>>
>>> On 7/02/2022 9:10 am, John_H wrote:
>>>> lindsay wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>>>>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>>>>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>>>>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>>>>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>>>>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>> If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
>>>> already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
>>>> storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
>>>> for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
>>>> plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
>>>> a pump which can be another source of contamination.
>>>
>>> I already have a new rotary hand pump for 200l drums, and I was trying
>>> to get away from plastic fuel drums, esp in summer... 20l drums are
>>> easier to transport, but the filler cap is on top of the engine cowl.
>>> bit of a pain to fill from 20l drums...
>>
>> Think you'll find plastic containers are preferred over steel for
>> diesel but it's probably a good idea to avoid the cheapies. Last time
>> I looked BCF had the best ones. They also come in 10 litre if you
>> need something easier to handle. I'd also be very surprised if your
>> tractor doesn't have a plastic tank.
>>
>>>
>>>> Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
>>>> mandatory but many are)?
>>>
>>> yep i believe this is whats in mine:
>>> https://kubota.com.au/product/v2403-m-t/
>>>
>>>> If it is there are issues you might need to
>>>> be aware of.
>>>
>>> So dont keep me in suspenders...??? Emmisions issues?? dealer says it
>>> doesnt require adblue, and doesnt have a DPF so maybe it's not tier 4..?
>>
>> Maybe a smalliish engine can meet tier 4 without either and If it
>> doesn't have a DPF then you shouldn't have an issue. DPF equipped
>> engines (cars included) don't like being lightly loaded for extended
>> periods which is something that especially needs to be avoided with a
>> tractor for the DPF to purge. Consequently some manufacturers are
>> still importing tier 3 machines.
>
>No DPF.. Quiet, comfortable, cruise control, everything the Deutz is
>not. Dropped the 650kg counterweight, (tyres full of water) hooked the
>slasher up to it, and away we go. Got a decent (25-30 ft firebreak
>sorted). 50L fuel tank, and yes, I believe it's a plastic tank. Didnt
>really have time to go over it, and the paperwork/manuals are at work.
>Not even sure if it has a 12v cig socket on the dash!

Who put water in the tyres?

Unless you have a ballast problem, which is unlikely if you're not
using it for drawbar work (ie tillage), the practice is best avoided.
In any case it's much better to use weights when needed. I'm also
surprised that anyone puts water in tractor tyres these days,
especially radials, as all it ever achieves is to save the cost of
ballast weights.

Several reasons (google would probably find plenty more) the main ones
being.....

1) Overfilling will stuff the tyres, especially radials. Underfilling
also creates problems

2) Assuming it's got tubeless tyres (most do) unless the water has
inhibitor added the rims will rust.

3) If you need to remove a wheel for any reason they're difficult to
handle with water in them.

Although time consuming and messy it's not particularly difficult to
get the water out but you do need a special fitting, and an air
compressor, to get it all out (the fitting is easily made). If the
dealer put it there it I'd be asking them to remove it.

Assuming yours is FWA (front wheel assist) it's also worthwhile
checking the lead on the front tyres as it's not unusual for it to be
incorrect on new machines (I'd also be surprised if water doesn't
affect it although I've never checked a tractor with water in the
tyres)....
https://www.firestone-agriculture.eu/blog/5-things-to-know-about-your-tractors-lead-ratio

Mention lead to a tyre dealer and most of them won't know what you're
talking about but it's a very important part of setting up a tractor
correctly.

>Will be sticking with plastic jerry cans for diesel. Pain in the arse
>when the tank cap is 6 foot off the ground...

--
John H

On 19/2/22 9:47 am, John_H wrote:
> lindsay wrote:
>> On 8/02/2022 7:40 am, John_H wrote:
>>> lindsay wrote:
>>>>
>>>> Thanks to all who replied....
>>>>
>>>> On 7/02/2022 9:10 am, John_H wrote:
>>>>> lindsay wrote:
>>>>>>
>>>>>> I was thinking of grabbing a couple of empty, clean 200l acetone drums,
>>>>>> and filling them with diesel for the tractor. As it's a new tractor, i
>>>>>> was wondering if diesel stabiliser is worth it?, does it work?, and will
>>>>>> it create issues? Void the warranty? what happens if it's getting on in
>>>>>> time? (15 months old?, Not sure I'd use 400-600litres of diesel in 12
>>>>>> months...although it's a possibility.. a tank (60l) a month?
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> If you get it from a servo that cares about hygiene it's probably
>>>>> already been treated as the diesel bug is an issue with underground
>>>>> storage tanks. In any case 200 litre drums are a hassle to handle and
>>>>> for 60 litre/month your best option might be two or three 20 litre
>>>>> plastic jerry cans which are cleaner than steel as well as not needing
>>>>> a pump which can be another source of contamination.
>>>>
>>>> I already have a new rotary hand pump for 200l drums, and I was trying
>>>> to get away from plastic fuel drums, esp in summer... 20l drums are
>>>> easier to transport, but the filler cap is on top of the engine cowl.
>>>> bit of a pain to fill from 20l drums...
>>>
>>> Think you'll find plastic containers are preferred over steel for
>>> diesel but it's probably a good idea to avoid the cheapies. Last time
>>> I looked BCF had the best ones. They also come in 10 litre if you
>>> need something easier to handle. I'd also be very surprised if your
>>> tractor doesn't have a plastic tank.
>>>
>>>>
>>>>> Is your tractor US tier 4 compliant (under Australian law it isn't
>>>>> mandatory but many are)?
>>>>
>>>> yep i believe this is whats in mine:
>>>> https://kubota.com.au/product/v2403-m-t/
>>>>
>>>>> If it is there are issues you might need to
>>>>> be aware of.
>>>>
>>>> So dont keep me in suspenders...??? Emmisions issues?? dealer says it
>>>> doesnt require adblue, and doesnt have a DPF so maybe it's not tier 4..?
>>>
>>> Maybe a smalliish engine can meet tier 4 without either and If it
>>> doesn't have a DPF then you shouldn't have an issue. DPF equipped
>>> engines (cars included) don't like being lightly loaded for extended
>>> periods which is something that especially needs to be avoided with a
>>> tractor for the DPF to purge. Consequently some manufacturers are
>>> still importing tier 3 machines.
>>
>> No DPF.. Quiet, comfortable, cruise control, everything the Deutz is
>> not. Dropped the 650kg counterweight, (tyres full of water) hooked the
>> slasher up to it, and away we go. Got a decent (25-30 ft firebreak
>> sorted). 50L fuel tank, and yes, I believe it's a plastic tank. Didnt
>> really have time to go over it, and the paperwork/manuals are at work.
>> Not even sure if it has a 12v cig socket on the dash!
>
> Who put water in the tyres?
>
> Unless you have a ballast problem, which is unlikely if you're not
> using it for drawbar work (ie tillage), the practice is best avoided.
> In any case it's much better to use weights when needed. I'm also
> surprised that anyone puts water in tractor tyres these days,
> especially radials, as all it ever achieves is to save the cost of
> ballast weights.

I never really liked the idea of water in tyres but it used to be a
common practice when I worked on tractors, no doubt things have moved on
since then.
>
> Several reasons (google would probably find plenty more) the main ones
> being.....
>
> 1) Overfilling will stuff the tyres, especially radials. Underfilling
> also creates problems
>
> 2) Assuming it's got tubeless tyres (most do) unless the water has
> inhibitor added the rims will rust.
>
> 3) If you need to remove a wheel for any reason they're difficult to
> handle with water in them.

Difficult and possibly very dangerous, easy to be crushed by a very
heavy wheel and tyre.
>
> Although time consuming and messy it's not particularly difficult to
> get the water out but you do need a special fitting, and an air
> compressor, to get it all out (the fitting is easily made). If the
> dealer put it there it I'd be asking them to remove it.
>
> Assuming yours is FWA (front wheel assist) it's also worthwhile
> checking the lead on the front tyres as it's not unusual for it to be
> incorrect on new machines (I'd also be surprised if water doesn't
> affect it although I've never checked a tractor with water in the
> tyres)....
> https://www.firestone-agriculture.eu/blog/5-things-to-know-about-your-tractors-lead-ratio
>
> Mention lead to a tyre dealer and most of them won't know what you're
> talking about but it's a very important part of setting up a tractor
> correctly.

That brings back memories, spent lots of time at Ford assisting our
engineer checking lead and the rolling radius of various tyres which
varied quite a bit by brand.
Do late model FWA tractors not have a centre diff?

--
Daryl

On 19/02/2022 4:29 pm, Daryl wrote:

> I never really liked the idea of water in tyres but it used to be a
> common practice when I worked on tractors, no doubt things have moved on
> since then.

I have water in the rear tyres of my little tractor, and it doesn't
cause any issues. It's a front end loader with a small bucket and it
gets a bit light in the rear as it is, and would be shithouse without
the water.

If I had weights I would use them, but I don't have any and the water's
been there for 10 years and not caused a problem.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

Daryl wrote:
>On 19/2/22 9:47 am, John_H wrote:
>> lindsay wrote:
>>>
>>> No DPF.. Quiet, comfortable, cruise control, everything the Deutz is
>>> not. Dropped the 650kg counterweight, (tyres full of water) hooked the
>>> slasher up to it, and away we go. Got a decent (25-30 ft firebreak
>>> sorted). 50L fuel tank, and yes, I believe it's a plastic tank. Didnt
>>> really have time to go over it, and the paperwork/manuals are at work.
>>> Not even sure if it has a 12v cig socket on the dash!
>>
>> Who put water in the tyres?
>>
>> Unless you have a ballast problem, which is unlikely if you're not
>> using it for drawbar work (ie tillage), the practice is best avoided.
>> In any case it's much better to use weights when needed. I'm also
>> surprised that anyone puts water in tractor tyres these days,
>> especially radials, as all it ever achieves is to save the cost of
>> ballast weights.
>
>I never really liked the idea of water in tyres but it used to be a
>common practice when I worked on tractors, no doubt things have moved on
>since then.

Radial tyres especially (which have become pretty much standard) since
their tractive efficiency (the percentage of power they can put on the
ground) is substantially reduced with water in them. Even though it
used to be common practice in the days of cross ply tyres it's
generally frowned upon nowadays for other reasons as well....
https://www.hcvc.com.au/forum/oldjunk/8363-don-t-water-tyres-interesting

>> Several reasons (google would probably find plenty more) the main ones
>> being.....
>>
>> 1) Overfilling will stuff the tyres, especially radials. Underfilling
>> also creates problems
>>
>> 2) Assuming it's got tubeless tyres (most do) unless the water has
>> inhibitor added the rims will rust.
>>
>> 3) If you need to remove a wheel for any reason they're difficult to
>> handle with water in them.
>
>Difficult and possibly very dangerous, easy to be crushed by a very
>heavy wheel and tyre.

It occurs to me that Lindsay has a FEL attachment which probably
requires ballasting the rear but a far better way to do it is to put a
weight on the TPL that can easily be dropped off when it isn't needed
(an old engine block would probably do). He also needs to be aware
that lifting heavy loads with the bucket can be pretty hard on the
steering components of a small tractor.

>> Although time consuming and messy it's not particularly difficult to
>> get the water out but you do need a special fitting, and an air
>> compressor, to get it all out (the fitting is easily made). If the
>> dealer put it there it I'd be asking them to remove it.
>>
>> Assuming yours is FWA (front wheel assist) it's also worthwhile
>> checking the lead on the front tyres as it's not unusual for it to be
>> incorrect on new machines (I'd also be surprised if water doesn't
>> affect it although I've never checked a tractor with water in the
>> tyres)....
>> https://www.firestone-agriculture.eu/blog/5-things-to-know-about-your-tractors-lead-ratio
>>
>> Mention lead to a tyre dealer and most of them won't know what you're
>> talking about but it's a very important part of setting up a tractor
>> correctly.
>
>That brings back memories, spent lots of time at Ford assisting our
>engineer checking lead and the rolling radius of various tyres which
>varied quite a bit by brand.

Some brands can also be way off spec and the only way to check the
rolling circumference (radius is irrelevant) is under load.

>Do late model FWA tractors not have a centre diff?

They certainly don't but most have provision to lock the rear diff
which isn't meant to be used when working under load but can be useful
for moving the tractor about in boggy conditions.

It's a common mistake to think FWA tractors are meant to be operated
like 4WD cars (shift to 4WD when the going gets tough) when in fact
they can be extremely dangerous travelling in 4WD. 4WD is only meant
for working under load at low speed.

In case it isn't obvious tractors can rollover from end to end due to
the large amount of torque at the rear wheels which can result in
entire tractor rotating around the wheels. Operating in 4WD in rough
terrain is therefore a recipe for disaster if the front wheels
suddenly lose traction for any reason.

--
John H

On 18/02/2022 5:30 pm, lindsay wrote:

> In my case, it just keeps getting better. Apparently, once the factory
> is sold, there's whats called "retained earnings", which will provide me
> a 6 figure sum spread over the next few years. I no complain. :-)  Also
> planning for the future of cruising in retirement.. just booked our 3rd
> trip to the pacific islands, and have the finger hovering on a couple of
> others...

We've got 3 booked, the first is just a little iffy, it leaves from
clockyville in August and goes around Norway, Iceland, and Scotland.
Hopefully Europe will have settled a bit by then, and Australian
vaccination certificates will be recognised there.

Then the is one around New Zealand over Xmas and new year, should be no
problem. Lastly, a year in April, Sydney to Hawaii, via Fiji and
American Samoa, returning via Tahiti and New Zealand.

On 20/02/2022 10:16 am, John_H wrote:
> Daryl wrote:

>> Difficult and possibly very dangerous, easy to be crushed by a very
>> heavy wheel and tyre.
>
> It occurs to me that Lindsay has a FEL attachment which probably
> requires ballasting the rear but a far better way to do it is to put a
> weight on the TPL that can easily be dropped off when it isn't needed
> (an old engine block would probably do).

I don't know what Lindsay has planned for his three point linkage, but
mine has a tow bar on it for most of the time which would make using
weights a bit of a pain.

> He also needs to be aware that lifting heavy loads with the bucket can be pretty hard on the
> steering components of a small tractor.

Indeed. My tractor is fairly small and probably the next size down from
Lindsay's. It only has a quarter meter bucket with a 250kg SWL but
that's enough for it to be hard on the steering. It's already stuffed a
steering arm once that I had to make a replacement for.

>> Do late model FWA tractors not have a centre diff?
>
> They certainly don't but most have provision to lock the rear diff
> which isn't meant to be used when working under load but can be useful
> for moving the tractor about in boggy conditions.

Not just boggy conditions.

I spent a few days last week spreading 14 tonnes of 20mm Tuscan Stone
over my driveway as it was long overdue for some maintenance, and with a
full bucket the rear wheels get little purchase. I don't have rough
ground here, but the 4wd is needed to get the thing moving when picking
up a bucket load, or digging into a pile that needs aerating.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.