Building a Debris Fork

[rdrawdy]

I would like to build a debris fork for my FEL to pick up small brush piles. I have a BushHog FEL. I also have a blank FEL mounting plate already. I am thinking about welding rebar to the plate for tines. Any suggestions or better ideas before I get started? I am a beginning welder and enjoy taking on a new project. I would appreciate any advice.

 

[maybar]

I would like to build a debris fork for my FEL to pick up small brush piles. I have a BushHog FEL. I also have a blank FEL mounting plate already. I am thinking about welding rebar to the plate for tines. Any suggestions or better ideas before I get started? I am a beginning welder and enjoy taking on a new project. I would appreciate any advice.

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You've got a good idea but I would think the tines would need to be smooth.

 

[MikeD74T]

I'd use rebar for tines but I'd bolt on with u bolts or studs welded to the bars 'cause they'll inevitably get bent & bolt ons are easier to change. MikeD74T

 

[teg]

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/108680-carryall-twist.html#post1239035

I made mine 6' long, so from the seat I can see the tips of it. I need to angle the tips up (so they don't dig in as bad) and close up the end of them. They are LIGHT duty at best, I was not planning on anything other then brush.

I've since got a chipper and really have not use these that much...

 

[rdrawdy]

Thanks for the advice guys. It is good to have suggestions like this BEFORE I start the project. You mentioned some things I hadn't thought about yet.

 

[MikeD74T]

rd, Do a search for "buckrake" for more ideas. Here's some old buckrake video. The Buck Rake, Wind Stackers, and Field Chopper in Use
Also buckrake parts http://www.spaldings.co.uk/Shop/ProductDetails.aspx?SubcatID=473&GroupID=6227 MikeD74T

 

[rdrawdy]

Never knew what a buckrake was. This looks just like what I am looking for. I was able to "Google" it also and found a lot of new, helpful info. Thanks for the advice and education. The video of the horsedrawn one said cost was $90 - wish I could build one for that!:laughing:

 

[gwdixon]

I made a set of four, 5 feet long, brush tines from 1" black pipe. Mistake. They bend at the slightest bump and heating/straightening them will eventually cause them to completely fail. I would think re-bar would bend even easier.

The second set was for a BX, 4 feet long, and made from channel iron and have held up much, much better. Plus, they can be used as pallet forks.

 

[rdrawdy]

Thanks gwd for the pictures and advice. Your pictures give me some good ideas about design.