2000 lb or 4000 lb pallet forks?

[PeteN]

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?

 

[K5lwq]

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.

 

[Midniteoyl]

If you have the LL4106 loader w/ 2680lbs capacity, I would think the 2000lbs fork would be marginal. Sure, they can lift more than thier rating, usually, but so can your loader at ground and carrying heights.. Personally I would get the 4000lbs set.

 

[RickB]

If you have the LL4106 loader w/ 2680lbs capacity, I would think the 2000lbs fork would be marginal. Sure, they can lift more than thier rating, usually, but so can your loader at ground and carrying heights.. Personally I would get the 4000lbs set.

If I take those loader specs at face value (and there's no reason for me not to) I agree that the 4000lb set is a better choice.

 

[JCoastie]

2000 or 4000, I was contemplating that for a while, then I found a 3000# Tarter set at Tractor Supply on super sale.
3000 is perfect for me, my FEL is listed at 2153 and of course wanted some room to spare, so 3000 was the sweet spot for me.

https://tarterusa.com/tarter-products/pallet-fork

The MSRP on the main site is crazy, TSC had them normally for $799, I got them for $499 which I thought was a crazy good deal. Purchase for reference was late 2020.

 

[jyoutz]

2000 or 4000, I was contemplating that for a while, then I found a 3000# Tarter set at Tractor Supply on super sale.
3000 is perfect for me, my FEL is listed at 2153 and of course wanted some room to spare, so 3000 was the sweet spot for me.

https://tarterusa.com/tarter-products/pallet-fork

The MSRP on the main site is crazy, TSC had them normally for $799, I got them for $499 which I thought was a crazy good deal. Purchase for reference was late 2020.

Just checked tractor supply website. The only forks they have now is 1200# for$999. They are made by Tarter.

 

[Midniteoyl]

If you're buying the tractor new from a dealer, I would just get their forks. Easier, can be added to the finance if needed, and you know they have (or can get easily enough) them in stock. And right now, probably cheaper than you'll find elsewhere.

 

[jyoutz]

Tried that. Back ordered. Of course.

 

[bigtiller]

Your tractor will be better behaved with the 4" 4000lb forks. The smaller 3" forks are best for <2500 lb tractors.

 

[Slowpoke Slim]

It really depends on what you are going to use the forks for? Just pallet work only, the 2000 lb set may be fine. But if you're using them for other things, moving big rocks, or downed trees, or other heavy irregular shaped things, the added stress on the forks and frame may be too much. Not to mention if you try to pry out old tree stumps or bushes. But just sliding the forks into a pallet, lifting it straight up and moving it, doesn't put sideways (or other) stresses on the frame.

I went with 3000 lb frame and forks so that I have a bit more strength reserve if I'm trying to do something that doesn't involve lifting a pallet off the floor.