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Ahhhh, The most frequently discussed topic on the internet;) From all I've seen and done, Cal/Chlor (or any fluid fill) doesn't make a tractor ride "hard" so much as it just makes 'em ride "heavier", 'cause they ARE heavier. Fluid will give a tire a more solid feel, especially with higher air pressures. But, you don't need to run air pressures as high when they're filled. I've ran 15 to 18 psi in some tires when simply air filled. Same tires, same tractor, same use, I'd usually run 8 to 10 psi when fluid filled. (In my case, typically 40/50 hp utilities, 5000 to 7000lb ballasted weight, with 28" or 30" wheels) No harsh ride from what I can tell. A great deal will depend on what brand and ply of tire we're talking about too. I've tried Cal/chlor, windshield washer fluid, and cast weights. Cal Chlor is less hassle (for me) cheaper, and provides more lbs per gallon than wwf. I've owned my oldest tractor for 37 years. There's been the occasional leak. I clean it up and fix the tire/tube as soon as I see a problem. When I replaced tires on that tractor 2 months ago, there was no rust on the rims. Under all but the worst of conditions, most wheels will go 40 or 50 years without significant rust if properly maintained (while using cal chlor) Cast weights are EXPENSIVE nowdays. (w/ scrap and steel prices so high) It takes a pile of weights to equal the ballast that a filled tire can produce. For an old man like me, it's MUCH easier to handle a plastic barrel, a garden hose, and a small electric pump than it is to sling 150lb wheel weights by myself. Advantage fluid. The weight in a fluid filled tire is carried lower than cast weights bolted to a wheel center. Advantage fluid for lower center of gravity (stability) Also, that "firmness" from fluid filled tires can provide more stability. Farmers are usually an industrious and thrifty lot. They go with what works best at the best price. Fluid filling tires has been around since the beginning of pneumatic tires on farm tractors and is STILL the most popular way to weight a tractor. There's good reason for that. Every possible option has it's advantages and disadvantages. In the end, go with what works best FOR YOUR OWN NEEDS.
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