Not if you dig stumps or trees. I can pop a hundred 6" pines out in an hour with a skid steer. Forks work great.I would stay with the 2000lb. You will max out the loader before you bend them from lifting. The problem that some have may be from using them for things like digging or things they are not designed to do. But that is just choosing the right tool for the right job.
“can damage them (bend) when initially lifting loads with their tips?”Trying to figure out the appropriate size (strength) pallet forks for my LS MT3 series tractor. I've looked at 2000 lb & 4000 lb weight ratings. I was thinking I wanted 42" tines which is prevalent on the 2000 lb version with 3" wide tines. Most 4000 lb forks have 4" tines and 48" length. The dealer thinks the 4000 lb version is overbuilt for my tractor and uses up front load capacity vs. the 2000 lb versions. The 2000 lb version is lighter duty in all ways. Is there any reason to upgrade to the 4000 lb version? I believe the 2000 lb version is probably strong enough for general pallet lifting, but is it more likely that you can damage them (bend) when initially lifting loads with their tips? Any other pro/cons for these 2 versions of forks?
“can damage them (bend) when initially lifting loads with their tips?”
Buy an extra pair of forks if worried about bending the two thats on it. I have two 48 inch along with two 60 inch forks mounted on mine. Use the 60 inch for extended pick up sliding load back so you have four forks supporting (two 48” and two 60”). Works extremely well so far. Picking up a log, slide two 60 inch forks under it and tilt up Lightly. Let log slowly roll back on all four forks. Use the tips of 60 inch forks as a preview of log weight. Don’t get carried away with this setup because you will find yourself using 60 inch forks as a shovel for picking up big rocks or digging ditch’s. Before you know it your 60 inch forks will favor a rainbow. (If you enlarge my picture you may be able to notice two forks extended from front of maintenance cage = 60 inch forks. Maintenance cage is actual supported by four forks which lowers the flexing when maximizing lift capacity.)
An a 8 ft box scrape also works as a counter weight on Workmaster 50.please describe more your intended use. i don't see forks being used for digging or prying, etc but some do (using them that way puts added stress on loader arms too). in that case, get the heavier duty.
your loader is better matched for 2-3k version, enjoy, occasionally i'll paint my fork tips red for safety, etc, having loaded rear tires helps a lot if you're pushing the loader max
good luck