The Perfect Loader Setup: What to Order with Your Little Buck or Little Bull
Investing in a front-end loader is a big step toward making your John Deere garden tractor more capable, efficient, and, let’s be honest, fun to use. But if you’re only buying the loader by itself, you might be missing out on the full potential of your setup.
In this post, we’ll walk you through a simple formula for building the ideal Little Buck or Little Bull system, from essential ballast weight to versatile accessories like grapples and pallet forks. Whether you’re working on your acreage every weekend or just need help managing seasonal projects, these add-ons will make your loader even more powerful and practical.
Step 1: Start with the Right Loader
Our two flagship options are built for different needs:
Little Buck Loader: Perfect for older John Deere’s (like the 300 series, 4X5, and also the X700 series, to name a few) and Kubota BX garden tractors with four quick-connect hydraulic outlets.
Little Bull Loader: Designed for heavier lifting on x700 series tractors and Kubota BX models.
Once you’ve picked the right loader for your tractor, it’s time to build out your system.
Step 2: Add Ballast Weight (Non-Negotiable)
No loader setup is complete without proper ballast weight. It’s essential for:
Tractor stability
Loader performance
Safety when lifting heavy material
Choose one:
Weight Bar – Simple, compact, and easy to use. You add your JD suitcase weights.
Weight Basket – Adds versatility by allowing you to carry more affordable weights than JD suitcase, ie: bricks, pavers, or other materials.
🔧 Without proper rear ballast, your loader can lose traction or even lift your rear tires off the ground—especially when moving gravel, firewood, or other heavy loads.
Step 3: Upgrade with Must-Have Add-Ons
Once your loader is balanced and ready to go, consider these popular accessories that boost functionality and make every job easier.
Popular Accessories for Buck and Bull:
Antler Grappler – A mechanical grapple that helps you move brush, logs, and debris with precision.
Pallet Forks Kit – Easily convert your loader to handle pallets, mulch bags, and feed.
Top Plate – Especially loved by Little Bull owners. Adds strength and utility to your bucket.
Center Hook – Handy for lifting awkward items with a chain or strap.
D-Rings – Secure loads or hook up equipment directly to the bucket.
Ball Hitch & Receiver – Maneuver trailers in tight spaces, making it convenient to store them as needed.
Build Your Loader Like a Pro
We’ve heard it time and time again: customers who start with just the loader often come back later for the accessories. If you're ordering now, it’s more efficient (and often cheaper on shipping!) to bundle what you need the first time.
The formula:
Front-End Loader + Ballast Weight + (Grappler or Forks) + Handy Extra’s = The Ultimate Workhorse
Not Sure What You Need?
We’re here to help. Reach out with your tractor model and what kind of work you’re doing, and we’ll recommend the best setup. Whether you're moving mulch in the summer or firewood in the fall, we’ve got the right tools to get it done.
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📞 Still have questions? Call us at (815) 345-3940