Filling tires with fluid

You asked a specific question, so I'm assuming you have already made up your mind to put fluid in yours.

I use windshield washer solution in mine too. In a perfect world, I'd probably opt for cast weights. But we all know it isn't perfect. They tend to loosen up, and rattle around. They're expensive to buy now that steel prices shot through the roof.

Fluid is relatively cheap. It is effective. I have found that I get enough weight from the winshield solvent to reach the desired weight. CaCl will make for MORE weight, but in most cases, you end up with more than you really need anyway. (In the case of loader tractors, you almost can't have too much weight)

I buy my Windshield solution in 55 gallon drums, from NAPA. I get it for around $.52 a gallon that way. I bought a fitting from NAPA that allows a garden hose connection to the tractor tube. It has a built in air bleed valve. They sell a MUCH more expensive valve that allows you to remove and re-install the valve core without loosing a drop of fluid. That is particularly nice if you're using CaCl. (It keeps it from spilling onto your rims when starting and stopping the "fill"). I bought a "TEEL" stainless steel chemical pump from W.W.Grainger. It allows me to pump in and out of the tire, at a rate that will fill an 18.4 X 34 tire in about 30 minutes. The valve, 2 pieces of garden hose, the pump, and a stainless steel air gauge set me back about $125. That will pay for itself in a couple tire repairs, over the cost of having it done by a tire shop. The pump means I can do all of this without the need for elevating my barrels of fluid. That allows me to fill or emty a tire almost anywhere. (I've had a number of flats out in the field. All I need is a generator to power the pump)

I've seen a number of "air powered pumps" in tire service shops. They will suck every last drop of fluid out of a tube when doing a repair. My system leaves a gallon or so, but it is easily drained once the tube is removed from the tire.

Hope this helps. John

I know sometimes you think you need the weight. Just use the cast iron.

Mostly because they leak and are a mess if you get a flat. AND did you know you have to use a different air gauge when checking them. and the next person that owns the tractor might not want it in there...

• Hydroflation

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