445 4ws with loader.
Hello all sharing how I converted my loader frame to fit an All-wheel steer while keeping it compatible to go on a 4ws.
I want to start off with some numbers for the concept. I will not put all the math in here as it will be too long.
First is the stability. A standard 445 2ws and 4ws have the same tipping coefficient in a straight line. All these numbers are with the bucket fully in the air. At a slight turn the 2ws is at 95% compacity while the 4ws is at 90%. For a full locked turn, the 2ws is at 85% while 4ws is at 70%. The acceptable industry standard is 35%.
Next is onto the loader frame. Calculated with the rated load, the loader frame will normally force 3k-6k lb. to the attachment frame with rare spikes up to 15k lbs. Calculated from the steel thickness of the frame and hardware. The frame is rated to 25k lb.
Onto the modifications.
With standard turf tires for 4ws machines it will just miss the frame. I have AG tires so the lugs contact the frame slightly, this would require about ½” shaved off. Instead, I opted to add BM22725 wheel spacers. This spread the tires 1.5 inches on both sides, also improving the tipping coefficient.
The left side frame was the only frame to be modified. In the picture I show where the bracket was clearance for the steering mounts. An l-bracket was re welded to add strength back. The bottom bracket was cut off and moved 1/2” inch then re welded with support.
The lower cross beam was cut and extended by 1.5 inches. The factory rating for this bracket was 25k lb., and by extending it the compression strength was reduced to 17.5k lb. to stiffen this back up a 1/8 angle iron was stitched along the bottom. This increased the strength to 32k lb. of compression, higher than original. You will notice one side is on the outside of the bracket. This is due to not wanting to change the geometry too much of the left bracket. The factory two bolts have a stretch strength of 10lb. Just under the compression strength of the cross bar. I changed these to grade 8 which have a stretch strength of 14.2k lb., getting us back to the acceptable range.
Next is counterbalance, the manual states 650lb minimum is needed. On a 4ws the maximum wheel weight of 300lbs combined to both sides. This machine also has a recommended rear ballast maximum of 500lbs. In comparison a tiller on a three point hitch is 370lbs. The rear pivot bushings are $16 a piece and the bearing is $7 if the wear is a concern. I will be increasing the 25-hour axle greasing interval to 10 hours when the rear ballast is installed.
Also see the pictures of all the clearance concerns that were addressed. Some of the photos were in the middle of the project to highlight what was changed. I do not have my weights on it in the photos. I also compared the tippiness with the tractor I bought it from to this tractor and it was comparable.