How much DAMAGE do R4 tires do to a wet lawn?

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[@lovemyHK]

I wish I was closer to you guys, I would even go out of my way to buy from your dealership. Outstanding videos, always well explained and non-biased. You guys rock.

[@nickboland4720]

I agree im in Missouri hour from st.louis

[@bguen1234]

I mow with R1's on my Kubota all the time. Never have a problem. If you mow when the ground is saturated, any tire can tear up the sod.

[@AdamSmith-uv6kr]

Been cutting with my BX2380 on almost standing water here in Indiana and it shocks me that there is just no damage. Matter of fact we ran the garden tractor along side the BX which has new turf tires and due to wet conditions it was spinning like crazy and tearing grass out while sticking the ground. Was impressed. R4 tires, with the light weight BX on top of them and they just float

[@casycasy5199]

this is the type of video that makes me watch all the time the first hand knowledge your showing so we can make our minds up for what we want to buy .good job thanks

[@justinrainier4310]

I have read so much about this topic, but nothing beats a good video. If a picture is worth a thousand words, a video is priceless. Thanks for the demo!

[@boatdesigner12]

Sidewalls on the r4 is very stiff. If you have a smooth lawn they are ok, but if it’s rough they can give a rough ride with the cutter bouncing more. I’ve used both on my field with a 54” mower.

[@michaelfinney2160]

Excellent video as always. Being gentle on the pedal starting off either backing or going forward.

[@billupstateny9151]

I mow my lawn w/ a 50 hp utility tractor, R-4's, not loaded. 900 lb aftermarket cab, loader on, no attachment, 90 inch or 110 inch 3 point finish mower(s). If sping is unusually wet, I switch to ford w/ R-3 shoes. Otherwise I drive all over my improved landscape surfaces With R-4 tires., NO issues. ( MX 5100, and IH 484, both same tire size)

[@bendrinkin1782]

I have the same on my massey and the only time it tears up grass is when you’re backing up a slight incline and one tire breaks loose. Great traction in 4wd mowing my ditch and great traction in my garden. No complaints here.

[@fehartwi]

I have BX-25D with an under belly mower. I had the same question, before I brought it. I put R4’s on it I never mow with the loader on it. I have never had any issues with turf damage. The BX is as handy as a Swiss Army. The R4 are the best when your using the loader or in some instances when tilling or mowing on a steep grade with the 4 wheel drive. Glad I didn’t put turf tires on it.

[@JeremyTVOK]

I really like my R4s. Had an older tractor with ag tires previously and was concerned about traction with the R4s but I've been pleased so far. I've also seen some good videos on guys using the turf tires doing snow removal and surprisingly, they seemed to get really good traction.

[@nathansteeves8573]

Neil I appreciate the dedication you put into your videos to remove the grill guard and front end loader and all the brackets just for this test

[@MessicksEquip]

:-) good eye.

[@rthawker1]

I was going to point out the same thing after checking to see if anyone else noticed.

[@vancehamilton1934]

I bought an L3901 for all around utility work on my small farm. I got the industrial tires and love them. I have been in situations though where I wish I'd have gone with ag tires. The industrial tires slip a lot in the mud

[@Raymo853inLeDroit]

@Messick's Speak with you local Extension office about turf damage tests. The Turf Grass experts at Penn State do many careful tests on damage to turf, soil, etc.

[@_P0tat07_]

I’ve damaged turf with actual turf tires. Granted I have been using a 3 wheel mower with the single wheel in the back. And just turning the steering wheel is enough to pull up the grass. Which is dumb because, well, it’s an mower specifically for the turf industry. You’d think the engineering would be better. Also turning around trees when mowing is another time I regularly see turf ripped up. Another time is if I go from reverse to forward. Even if I change directions slowly and gently, there’s always a small bit of turf that gets pulled. I need to be very gentle and take super wide turns when turning on shorter grass. I work on a golf course so mowing is number 1 priority. And you have to be pretty careful so you don’t damage the turf. It’s a lot more complicated than just mowing stripes into grass.

[@intox69]

I was curious about this, thanks for the demo.

[@jeffersonwestbrook8953]

Absolutely love the videos this guy makes, extremely informative and professional and it’s the questions we want answered. Just wish he worked for John Deere!

[@daveb1081]

I’m just picturing the people driving by wondering what the heck this guy is doing lmao. Cool vid Neil

[@rayeddy528]

Thank you Neil !! I appreciate you !!l Interesting content as usual !! Please be safe and God bless you and your family !!!!! Eddy

[@Thebutteredsausage]

Unfortunately I have a cub cadet.. mowing the wet lawn is impossible! I'll just have to wait till next year to try again

[@northernbear7627]

How about doing a video on what Chains might do to a Black Top Drive. My driveway is a steep hill.

[@joncasamento5978]

I see damage from rear tires on tight turns. Both on tight turns with 4WD. I have a BX2350.

[@SF-ku2hp]

Does anyone know why tractor dealers always have a corny funny intro song? Best part of tractor videos

[@JJS-cv7kc]

I just bought a BX2380, and as recommended I went with the R-4 tires... These tires destroyed my lawn. I'm in Oregon, and we get more than our share of rain. Going to have to drop the coin on turf tires. Only drove onto my lawn once and now another $800.00 for different tires.. I wish I would have went with what turf tires like I wanted to, but I let them talk me out of it...

[@BornRandy62]

we found the main difference between rites and turf damage had to do with width . the largest machine was the 9020 simplicity equivalent to a 8N 9N ford. If we put the industrial tires on front for the loader or push blade then you had to be careful . since the tire was easily 1/4 as wide as the turf tire. And then if the lawn was dry enough to mow then it was dry enough to roll with the industrial tires.

[@4-LOW]

Lots of the time, if R4 is an option on a tractor it's smaller tire. R3s are larger. Also, there is no question that R3 tires are easier on turf, which is why they're called turf tires, and 95% of guys are using subcompact tractors on turf or similar. Nobody is out plowing fields with a subcompact. So honestly I think R3 should be the standard tire. They will provide much better traction in snow also for the same reasons that an all-terrain on a pickup is better than a mud-terrain.

[@MessicksEquip]

All the tire options are the same size.

[@davebarnessr.5805]

My experience is R4’s do fine on the lawn, I mow in just 2 wheel drive, My problem is my tractor is a L4701 and it’s heavy, so I don’t use it to mow if the ground has a lot of moisture even though the grass is dry enough to mow, otherwise I just use a conventional riding mower during these times, but that’s ok w/ me. I did not buy this tractor to mow the yard exclusively, but it is nice to knock out the mowing with a big Woods 6 ft finish mower in a quarter of the time my 46 inch rider takes, but I’m weird, I like mowing grass !!

[@brucek.345]

I had to go back and watch "Kubota Tire Choices: Why it Matters". Thanks Neil.

[@afponiky]

Great video! But it really depends on the condition of the area your dealing with.... Too each there own.

[@DIllybarification]

Can you guys do a video for larger tractors talking about foaming vs liquid ballast? Mostly concerned about long term value.

[@MessicksEquip]

foam won't leak, its heavier, but its double the price. Liquid is the cheapest way to ballast.

[@andysworld2188]

Foam is permanent. Liquid can be removed if needed

[@DLTJR1959]

Foam sets up and develops flat spots, very expensive, and destroys the tire. Some newer types of foam is somewhat softer. To me it is not a viable option unless in forestry or construction trades. For ag or homeowner use I prefer tubeless liquid filled tires and a handy supply of tire plugs. Can be hard on wheel bearings.

[@anthonyfranich9539]

How about in the winter a video showing R4 tires plowing snow ? What is the best tractor tire for pushing or blowing snow ?

[@BeingMe23]

Anthony Franich Yea would need chains. The tread is too smooth and the bars are too wide reducing ground pressure.

[@owenhill4309]

Jason B my bx tractor plows snow easily and I have R4 industrial tires

[@Lilfarmrboy]

I plow with my BX and R4 tires all the time. The tires aren't so much the issue as is just not having enough weight if you hit the deep drifts. My grandfather who has turf tires on his BX can't hang with me when it comes to busting through the snow banks so I definitely think the R4 tires are better than turf.

[@owenhill4309]

S Knox yes they have enough grip for almost every task

[@jhomrich89]

Anthony Franich on tractors this small I would strongly consider weights and chains to help regardless of you have turf or r4. Keep in mind that most tractor tires are designed for some degree of flotation as to not ruin whatever surface they are on so that's why I would consider weights and chains regardless of what kind of tire you put on there

[@thelanterns]

I have R4's on my BX2350 for 12 years. There is an area on our lawn where I have to go through a roadside drainage ditch and then turn 90 degree's at the top on the other side, well the R4"s tare up the grass every time and the tares and the mud are still there from last year. The ditch area was fairly wet at the time also. How about do a test on the wet grass with the new R14's.

[@ne2i]

Better order some R4's I see no downside here. When I wear out the turf's, Im going R4.

[@Lilfarmrboy]

The only way I have ever damaged my grass with my Bx2370 and R4 tires is driving into submerge grass that's underwater or if I'm pulling out a tree and the tires dig in. Other than that I really don't have an issue with them. I wanted them because I wanted no damage on the grass yet I wanted traction in my garden when it's worked up and so far it's worked out great for me. Hope this helps.

[@andysworld2188]

S Knox same here. It was only when I forced myself to cut the grass driving thru water that I actually made a mess in the yard. I think it was more the standing water and weight of the tractor that did the damage rather than what type of tread was on the tire.

[@Sicktrickintuner]

I don’t think I will ever get tired of these videos...... wah wah. Lol

[@jayusher576]

R4 tread if you're mowing complex terrain the added traction is the ticket I run loaded Carlisle trac cheifs an mow 10+ acres of complex terrain mowing in 4 wheel drive and and out the only time I see any type of soil disturbance is when the soil is saturated heavy after a large amount of rain...really this is fairly subjective if your doing strictly turff grass type mowing go with the hybrid r4 turf tire if your mowing complex terrain and working with your tractor doing other chores the r4 is just fine.👍🏻

[@bropocalypse2065]

Usually if you don’t lock up your rear, you WILL fling mud. Happened to my buddy at the Walmart and his old lady had to bring him some shorts in the john

[@pierrelambert1005]

What about snow blowing with both sets of tires in very cold weather (in Canada) ? Some say the turf tires are better on icy surfaces, I am wondering pushing with the loader if the R4 tires would'nt be better ?

[@owenhill4309]

You should do a 3 point hitch lift with the load cell without a loader and see if the 3 point hitch can lift the front tires up off the ground and also see how much the three point can lift

[@stopspinskydiving]

Do it with AG tires.

[@Primerk5]

I get complaints that the the R1s on my b7200 are putting dents in the ground when I mow.

[@craig69ss]

A video of how much damage a tracked skid (svl75) would do on a lawn would be great.

[@MessicksEquip]

then I'd have a real mess to clean up :-)

[@jeankelly2011]

I would like to see the same tests with AG tires. This type of tires seems to be the unloved ones that nobody buys. With the other video you've done in mind I'm curious to see why nobody are taking them. Specialy in the snow.

[@Mopardude]

You gotta drive it like you stole it, son, if you want to fling some dirt.

[@pabeefexpo]

Let's see it with a ztm. I've heard that r4 may tear up less because you are less likely to skid.

[@robpond7385]

neal like your vids getting ready to buy bx23s can you tell me honestly is the trany diff case cast iron or alum? all body panels metal tractor is made in s koria? i am on pension so its a one shot deal is koity better? need your guidence ty neal i wish i could buy from you

[@72mrme]

So with winter coming, what are your thoughts on turf vs R4 in winter?

[@davidseehorsch3563]

Myron Esau I have same question.

[@billfischer6464]

David Seehorsch I have that exact same question. I've been told turf is better in winter but would love to hear and or see real world experience

[@JC-wz8oo]

Neil....I'm wondering the same as these other guys. What about in winter? Turns or r4?

[@MessicksEquip]

once we have some snow on the ground, we will do more load cell stuff. I'm curious to put a number to the debate as there are a lot of happy Turf tire owners.

[@billfischer6464]

Messick Farm Equipment thanks so much for your videos and work you do. Also thanks so much for replying to comments and questions.

[@lh98]

I'd like to see a video of a mid range compact loaded tractor (FEL & backhoe) with ags and one with r4's driven on flat and hilly lawns. Curious about the traction vs lawn damage. I know u said your area doesn't have much use for ags but a lot of your videos do have machines with ags in the backround! Appreciate the videos u take the time to make. Good day.

[@MessicksEquip]

You'll see ag tires on utility and farm tractors all the time, not compacts

[@lh98]

Messick's I've seen ags on compacts like b7800 and Mahindra 1533 actually some older b7100 as well. I think it's a location thing as well not necessarily a compact sub compact vs farm thing. Of course I'm no tractor professional either. Guess it's better I leave the AG tires question elsewhere.

[@AdamSmith-uv6kr]

Honestly less damage with R4 tires than standard turf tires due to wheel spin in wet conditions with turf tires. I’m shocked!!!! I was thinking the issue would be leaving tread pattern but they seem to float just fine.

[@thetinker3924]

I never cut wet grass as it don't cut that good and it sticks to everything

[@kd6836]

Sometimes you just have to mow wet. Put in 2WD if you can and slow down. I know this and manage to dig up anyway. It always grows back. You can’t kill grass. My old Farmall with tires does better but not as fast. I have a 3300SU with a Land Pride 3 pt finish mower.

[@bernarrcoletta7419]

As an ex-autocrosser I’m fascinated about anything to do with tires.

[@arthurr8670]

Today would be a great day for this test. I don't even see grass now, just a giant pool outside

[@MessicksEquip]

Yeah, my yard is a total swamp

[@mnleber]

See manual. ROPS up - seatbelt ON. ROPS down - seatbelt ON

[@michaeldoherty2289]

I can actually do more damage with my turf tires than the R4's did here. I have a JDX590 mower with Carlisle Turfmaster tires on it that can really scuff the turf down to the soil when I go around a tree with the steering wheel in turned in a tight radius. I am impressed with this video. I do think in soft ground it could cause a lot of dents though. Could be an issue on a very manicured lawn.

[@pietuitdebroek1937]

Please open a shop in Belgium

[@lawrencepresto6518]

try that on a lawn that has been rained on for about a week and the grass is four inches high and the ground stays wet under the grass

[@TheJackieJ]

Curious about the BX1880, since the tire options there are only turf and bar, no R4s. Granted, the bar tires are almost a hybrid between ag tires and industrial tires, but still: would I get significant lawn damage running the bar tires on a BX, as opposed to the R4s?

[@MessicksEquip]

I'd expect the bars to be on the aggressive side

[@garrytalley8009]

I don't know why people keep trying to make R4 tires look bad. In extreme mud they don't work as well has the more aggressive tall farm tractor tires, but then the trenches they leave are a problem as well. When it gets too muddy it's best to park the tractor. Not impressed with anyone trying to do a negative on the R4 tire. They are easier on the ground not leaving trenches and also getting a good bite when they need to without leaving trenches.

[@michaelbayerl1683]

I'm nearby and considering building an ARK! It's been crazy wet!

[@MessicksEquip]

it just does not stop!

[@rosslumayko5182]

Sorry. Stupid question time. B2370, what does the 70 stand for?

[@MessicksEquip]

Series identifier

[@chuckm8472]

I'm more concerned about ruts after repeated mowing.

[@spyder000069]

How bad are r4 compared to turf while mowing on a ditch lengthwise with a decent angle. Does it slide sideways and become a hazard?

[@frankekasjr8671]

Biggest difference anyone can see is "driver/steering wheel holder" vs. "operator"

[@davebarnes6672]

Why would you be on a wet lawn in the first place mowing ?? Yea, I’ve known some who do but I think most of us don’t go there.

[@Alex-uy7pc]

Hey Neil, what do you recommend for cutting hills up to 20-25 degrees?

[@AdamSmith-uv6kr]

Alex Wrench weed eater. lol. Jk R4 all day. We switched away from turf years ago for slipping issues downhill or at an angle at 20-22 degrees

[@wildbill23c]

So 4WD with the diff locked on turf not such a bright idea LOL. I'd think having a tractor with a loader you'd want at least the R4 tires for traction that you'll desperately need for loader work.

[@remb9614]

Any brand new tire will be rough on wet grass. Once r4 tires get a bit of use they are very tame on grass.

[@michmich9826]

Merci a vous dommage explication non en Français

[@BeingMe23]

Well I am sure at THIS POINT if R4 tires ruined lawns it would noted by the manufacturer. I can see the smooth wide block design. Lowers the pounds per square inch on the surface thus increase slippage. This why contractors like these tires smooth ride yet low wear to the bars. Actually they mimic a "rubber track design".

[@timoftheboat]

How about a turf vs R4 on a wet hillside comparison on lateral grip.

[@MessicksEquip]

some interesting ideas in the comments

[@billupstateny9151]

The recent TRASH TALK against RK Tractors in T-B-N Forum put a little tarnish upon that Messick sterling reputation.

[@MessicksEquip]

Really? I don't know that I'd call it trash talk... more a market and business analysis. I said the same thing about Bobcat selling compacts, and frankly that had a better chance of success.

[@MrFakit]

Once you go zero turn there is no other burn?!

[@09vrodz]

like the new music

[@fhuber7507]

Lawns: Don't get the agriculture tire with the heavy bars. Then if you don't do something silly you shouldn't tear up the turf much if at all.

[@robpond7385]

sorry for my spelling neil

[@jimwilloughby]

For me there is another reason yo choose R4 tires over ag tires on a 4WD machine. R4 tires look a whole lot better than ag tires. The front wheels for ag tires seem a bit taller and narrower than those used for R4 tries , which ruins the look.

[@arnejahr3531]

Way about the r14s

[@kellytrees]

Seems to me that R1 and R4 tires would tear bermuda grass to pieces.

[@someparts]

R14

[@jilescochran3912]

I don't have any problems gwith R1

[@10esseeTony]

R4's will certainly dig some holes though, if you are stump digging, even in slightly 'moist' ground. ;)

[@_P0tat07_]

2:20 PFFT! Those aren’t real donuts. You need to be flinging dirt.

[@wildbill23c]

2WD with rear diff locked, I bet it would throw some dirt in high range....if not he needs a different tractor LOL...maybe that larger one that was behind him on the hill in the beginning of the video.

[@subixbarbarasson2544]

I am kinda disappointed. I was hoping y'all would show the kontrast of doing full throttle doughnuts wearing R1/AG tires in 4wheel drive while smashing the diff lokk. Well,...... We Kan always dream I rekkon. ;)

[@svtirefire]

Did you spill Coke on your "C" key?

[@daveroberts9921]

Here's an idea, don't drive on the lawn when it's wet.

[@FallenSaint19]

Rain everyday in louisiana lol

[@tripacer8259]

Try a sharp turn, then you will see your R4's tear the hell out of your lawn!

[@MessicksEquip]

That was a sharp as I could go.

[@tripacer8259]

I guess my B2920 was a little bigger but the outside front wheel would peel the grass up in a sharp turn, I ALWAYS ran turf tires on my BX tractors.

[@lawrencepresto6518]

R4 tires are Junk

[@mountainman7782]

This is just a joke: Tires are tiring

[@davezaroski2479]

When u r turning in.2 wheel drive no problem. Come on guys u need a friggin videoto tell u 4 wheel drive will damage more .

[@matt426h]

I do more damage to my lawn when it’s wet with the wheels on my woods rd60 mower than with the tractor tires. I have both sets for my b7100d. Turf and R1 ag tires. Neither set gives me any trouble as long as I use common sense. The mower wheels are a completely different story. This was interesting to see. I would also be interested in seeing this same test done with a set of R1 tires mounted in the standard direction versus running the front tires mounted with the tread running the opposite direction.