Front-End Loader  60in. Bucket for 40 HP Tractor

"A front-end loader is a large bucket mounted on the front of the tractor and used for scooping up and moving quantities of material. On a horse farm, that material is most often manure, but a front-end loader can move gravel, dirt, bedding, and even snow. If you tractor didn't come with a loader, you can add one (made by the same manufacturer or a third party), along with an auxiliary hydraulic system, as long as the loader is specifically designed to work on your tractor."

• The bucket size for your tractor depends on what you are going to use the bucket for. If you are going to use the tractor loader to scrape and clean stalls, choose a bucket that is slightly wider than the front tires of the tractor so that you can scrape up next to a wall or a fence without the front tires getting in the way. A large capacity bucket is fine for manure or mulch, but a smaller bucket is needed for heavier materials like stone or hard-packed earth.

• Put your hand in the center of the bottom of the steering wheel. If you want the back of the trailer to move to the left, move your hand to the left.
• If you want the back of the trailer to go to the right, move your hand to the right.
• For a sharp turn, turn the steering wheel before you press the accelerator.
• For a gradual turn, turn the steering wheel and press the accelerator at the same time.
• Once the trailer is going in the direction you want, you need to straighten out the truck wheels to have your truck follow the trailer.

Equipping Your Horse Farm

Whether they are small or large, horse farms have specific heavy equipment needs that usually include a tractor, a truck, and a trailer. This book is a buyer's guide for equine facility owners, helping readers assess their needs and make intelligent purchases.

"Balance your budget with your wish lists, keeping suitability and compatibility in mind," advise authors Cherry Hill and Richard Klimesh. Their book is packed with charts, lists and worksheets for figuring out what equipment you need and how it will be maintained.

In addition to tractors, trucks and trailers, they cover tractor implements, hitches, skid steers and wheel loaders, and all-purpose vehicles. A glossary of farm equipment terms is included along with tips on safety and maintenance.