Challenge Implements strongly recommends the use of a three-point linkage counterweight to improve both the safety and performance of your Challenge front-end loader/tractor unit.

A major safety factor in the operation of a front-end loader/tractor unit is the stability of the machine whilst lifting and transporting a load. After fitting a front-end loader, the centre of gravity of the tractor is moved forward. When a load is raised, this combined centre of gravity is moved further forward and higher, potentially moving the centre of gravity outside the base triangle of the tractor, causing instability both longitudinally and laterally. Along with instability, there are high loads placed on tractor front-end components such as tyres, rims and axle.

Ballast vs counterweight…

Traditionally, tractor owners have added ballast to increase the stability of the tractor when a loader is fitted by adding liquid fill to the rear tyres, or fitting rear wheel weights. Although the addition of liquid fill or rear wheel weights may aid stability, neither will reduce the high front axle load when using the front-end loader on the tractor. Also, an unnecessarily large amount of weight is required to achieve a result, increasing total vehicle mass considerably.

Australian standards…

Challenge Implements has undergone an independent evaluation to ensure that the company complies with the Tractor & Machinery Association of Australia (TMA) code of practice for manufacture and supply of agricultural front-end loaders.

The Challenge three-point linkage counterweight is designed to enhance the performance of the tractor/front-end loader combination by providing suitable ballast behind the rear axle. Applying weight on the three-point linkage of the tractor will provide the greatest counterbalancing effect as it applies a downward force behind the rear axle, reducing the weight carried by the front tyres, rims and axle. The Challenge three-point linkage counterweight will not only reduce the front axle load but will also move the centre of gravity of the tractor/front-end loader combination rearwards, and lower, to maintain stability and ensure safe, effective performance.

• Improve safety and performance of your tractor/front-end loader unit
• Provide the greatest counterbalancing effect
• Reduces the weight carried by the tractors’ front tyres, rims and axle
• Reduce the front axle load
• Maintain stability and ensure safe, effective performance when centre of gravity is moved toward the rear

Selecting the right counterweight…

The Challenge three-point linkage counterweights are supplied without ballast and should be filled with concrete to achieve the designed operational weights. Each tractor and front-end loader specifications should be considered when selecting the appropriate counterweight.