Bucket Hook(s) Placement

[Snapper Head]

Thanks folks. I did use the search function, and as with most high traffic websites, information overload is the result. Of course, this thread just added to that overload....

I really like the receiver idea, as I have several different trailers that I have to move with some regularity.


Big Al

 

[ovrszd]

These threads are much more fun with pics..... But for some reason I don't have any pics of my hooks....

I have a Rhino loader which has a heavy C shaped beam across the top of the bucket. I welded a link hook at each end of the bucket on top with the open end of the hook rearward. I welded a slip hook in the center facing the same way. Sorry I couldn't give you a picture. I use all three of my hooks frequently.

My Brother recently bought a new L3240. I told him he needed to get some hooks welded on it including one in the center. His Kubota L514 bucket doesn't have a strong piece across the top. He said that didn't matter because he wouldn't use a center hook anyway. That was a month ago. He's bringing his tractor to my shop Saturday so we can add a C channel across the top of the bucket and weld on a center hook.

As for "search", if everyone searched, this website would be extremely boring.

 

[ovrszd]

Hey, I found a picture showing my hooks and a couple that displays the variety of uses for such hooks!!! :laughing:

 

[J_J]

You might consider this. install two hooks in front of each of the bucket two lift points, one hook facing to the front, and the other hook facing aft. Install two hooks in center, one facing fwd, and one facing aft. Why two hooks? You can lift more weight off the back of the bucket, and you don't bend the lip on the bucket. The hook facing aft will let you lift from the front, over the lip and get more reach, but will lift less weight.

 

[bayoubowhunter69]

Welded mine on like Foggy's, so that when the bucket is rolled down, you are in the lifting postion.

 

[bayoubowhunter69]

Love the receiver hitch addition, gonna be my next thing done....thx

 

[J_J]

ovrszd,

Just curious why you did not install the hooks in front of the bucket lift points? If you lift a load from one end only, you stand a good chance of tweaking the loader arms, and possibility tipping over.

 

[ovrszd]

ovrszd,

Just curious why you did not install the hooks in front of the bucket lift points? If you lift a load from one end only, you stand a good chance of tweaking the loader arms, and possibility tipping over.

I wanted the hooks as far apart as possible for balance if carrying something wide. I use the center hook to offset the imbalance when carrying something narrow.

Lifting with hooks will definitely tweak the loarder arms. But then, so will digging with a single bucket corner.

As for tipping over, that risk is present anytime you hook anything to the bucket or simply load the bucket and carry a load. So you must always be aware of that risk.

 

[Gary Fowler]

I have never seen anyone with a hook welded in the center that didnt have a bent lip on the bucket unless you spend lots of money and time to add doubler plates to either the underside or top side. The middle is the weakest point on the bucket from either the top lip or the cutting edge and is the most likely to bend if you load it up. Most CUT buckets are about an 1/8" thick on the top lip at most and smaller ones are even thinner. Even attaching them to the center of the lift arms needs to have a 1/4" or thicker plate of about 4" minimum width by about 1" less that the distance from front lip to back lip to allow for welding all around. Then weld the hook to it. I would even cut a 3/4 or 1" hole in the center and plug weld it so the middle of the plate is also welded to the bucket. That makes it work more like one solid piece. Every chain I have ever seen has 2 ends so why just use one hook. Just my opinion

 

[Snapper Head]

Thanks for the continued input guys. The pics are valuable because I can be very spatially challenged at times.

JJ - I like the way you think about the loading.

I have a standard Kubota 72 in squareback bucket, and can see where it could easily be bent with improper loading. Minor dings and small bends are no big deal to me, after all, this is work tool.

Maybe I need to find a second, used, bucket, and trick it out with all of the hooks, receiver, and whatever else I can think of........


Big Al