Yes, It made a big difference. I bush hog about 10 acres regularly - 2-3 times a year. The land is fairly hilly. The FEL on the old 185 had its weight pretty far out in front, and stability was always a bit of a heart stopper. Now with the 3200 I can just take it off, and everything feels SO much better! Problem was that even with the front tires filled, it was skiddish, trying to make an uphill turn. The weights made all the difference in the world!
I bought a 1X4"X20' hot rolled flat bar, and cut it into 6 - 36" pieces, with 2' change. Since there is about a 7-1/2" gap behind the front bumper weight bar I figured I'd have just room for a 3/8" tab to attach it out front.
After I welded up and mounted the first 4 bars I decided I didn't like the full width- it only gave me about an inch clearance on one side. So I came in a bit narrower going forward (34"). If I had it to do over, I'd probably go for 34" width for all of them. I'm really not sure it matters; I don't think you'd ever get an inch side load on the loader frame at that point. I made the 6th bar shorter yet, so I wouldn't have interference with the hydraulic hose connections. Again, I don't think the loader frame will ever bend back enough for it to be a problem.
I talked to my dealer, and he said the suitcase weights have to come off if you are using the loader - they do interfere with the loader frame. I'm very happy with what I ended up with.
The next time I have the weights off I will paint them dark gray - the exhaust has discolored the left side of the weight bar to about that color anyway. And, they do make a fine bumper. I also didn't like the way the steering linkage was way out in front of the axle.
Thanks for your compliments!
