Hauling

[ArchwoodHolding]

I have a Kubota L3540 Tractor with FEL as well as an RTV900 and was wondering what the easiest and best way to secure these to my trailer would be. I'm currently using straps through clevises and over FEL on front of tractor and on RTV and then use clevis/drawbar/hitch on rear of each. The straps are rated for 10,000lbs but are a pain the ass since I always seem to have a tail that I end up wrapping around the strap before feeding into the ratchet. Due to hydraulic runs grabbing an axle on the tractor isn't an option and really don't want to mess up the paint. I've been told chains and binders may be easier but have had no real experience with them to know. My longest haul would probably ever be to the dealer about 20 miles away and that is a rare trip. I typically only transport usually no more than about 10 miles each way around 2-3 times per year but distance doesn't matter ... safety does! Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[pepr]

I prefer using chain and load boomers for equipment mainly since straps can be cut by corners on metal objects. If your tractor has a FEL, I'd butt the FEL up to front of trailer, then pull it forward with chain and boomer anchored to the rear portion of the tractor.

I've only hauled my RTV 900 once and I put receiver hitches with balls attached. I used chains aqnd boomer anchored to the balls and basically stretched the RTV.

I always liked straps for ATVs and most other non-mobile hauls. Less marring than chains.

 

[bczoom]

I'd start by looking at the OH DOT site for binding/tie-down requirements. If you're using straps and they want chains, they can ticket you.

That said, I use a mix of chains and straps. Grade 70 chains with binders are my preference (as well as the PA DOT's) for rolling loads. Where I live, I'm pretty sure it's illegal to tie down a tractor using the tractor's implements (e.g. loader).

 

[ArchwoodHolding]

It's illegal to use the implement as means of securing the equipment to the trailer here in Ohio as well BUT you must place a strap or chain on each implement/attachment to secure them to the trailer to prevent any movement of said implement or attachment during transport. The problem with the tractor is that I'm limited in terms of grab points due to hydraulic lines for FEL as well as those which run along the axles. That means my hitch/draw bar with clevis on the rear is what I have to grab onto and same on front coming off frame extension for suitcase weights on front. Basically the FEL and it's lines/hoses get in the way when trying to secure the tractor. Thus far I've been using straps since I figured they'd be less likely to chip or scratch the paint but more concerned with doing this safely. I've seen folks haul their equipment without anything holding them (landscapers are notorious for doing this since they are usually running from place to place and loading and unloading) but I don't want to endanger myself or others nor do I want to damage my equipment.

I was curious what more experienced haulers recommended.

(The weight of my tractor is about 7500#)

 

[Mark.Sibole]

I have a hitch in each of the recievers on the RTV and use chains and binders.
I go from one side of the trailer to the ball then to the other side of the trailer and bind it down.
Same thing for rear.
Ive hauled mine 60 to 70 miles like this and have never had a problem.
If hauling any other Equipment with attachments you have to bind the tractor down and then bind any attachments down also.

 

[ArchwoodHolding]

Thanks for all the help.

 

[speedyriley]

On the ATV I have found that a Lousiana Trailer Dog is all I need to keep it sucure on the trailer, Easy and convenient.

Speedyriley

 

[oldhat]

The operators manual for the RTV 1100 shows that you should use the front bumper, and the pipe frame on the rear. Secure with strong straps or chains.
I am altering a trailer that I used to hall my jeep to the mountains to fit the kubota. The kubota is narrower than the jeep.
Going to take the kubota on a 1400 mile round trip to the high country this Otcober Try and find Elk.

 

[bczoom]

Going to take the kubota on a 1400 mile round trip to the high country this Otcober Try and find Elk.

Sounds like a great trip! Sounds like you're heading west. If not already considered, make note that the RTV does not perform 100% at higher altitudes. We have some threads on it but as I recall, you loose somewhere around 30% of power at 7,000' of altitude.

 

[oldhat]

We are going up around Leadville CO. Cabin is at 9,500 Ft. All up from there. That is why I am thinking about a turbo. Will see how the Kubota does and let you know.

 

[rogerw]

Thanks for the hi intake reply. We will wait until you return. Have a wonderful trip. I would tank up with no 1 diesel if you can find it, will get back part of your performance. Roger

 

[Keifer]

OldHat:

Sounds like thats a great trip you are planning. As far as hauling your RTV on a trailer, you might want to consider contacting your state DOT for written policy on what is recommended and approved. Take that along with you on your trip-- it might satisfy a Trooper along the way who might question your set- up. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure as they say.

Keifer

 

[oldhat]

Trailer and Kubota are ready. Leave this morning thought I would post a picture of the kubota on the trailer. First is when I started on the trailer, and second is completed.

 

[pepr]

Wow, Oldhat that trailer sure turnout nicely and the Golight sure is an attention getter as well. Great job!!!!!!

 

[bczoom]

Looks great!

Out of curiosity, how much clearance is there between the fender and the tire? It looks awfully close in the 2nd pic.

 

[oldhat]

Just got back from the mountains. bczoom, you are right the clearance is too close. It was not a problem, but I think I will add a 1 inch spacer between the frame and the torsion axles. The springs are about 30 years old and probabily have saged some. It really towed very well, did not even know it was behind me. When I get the pictures downloaded I will try and post some pictures. Kubota at over 11000 feet, well above timberline. We sure had a lot of fun.

 

[muffler man]

how did it perform at 11,000 ft with no turbo?

 

[oldhat]

The Kubota made it to 11,800 ft . Enclosed is a photo. I was in M and only going about 8 MPH. Low gear over rough areas was no problem. Down hill also was no problem. At this altuide a turbo is necessary. You can get there if you are not in a hurry. Next year I hope to have a turbo and do a presure adjustment to the transmission. That should help alot. We covered alot of country and had alot of fun. We were NOT in a hurry. The last photo is at 11,800 foot.

 

[muleman RIP]

That is some pretty country. Lots of snowcats run out there in the winter.

 

[Doc]

Beautiful pics. Sure looks like a great place to spend a relaxing week or weekend. Thanks for sharing.