Front-End Loader Adjusting Toothbar on FEL

[Champy]

I have a toothbar on my FEL (JD 300CX) that I remove each winter so that I can use the FEL for moving snow, etc... My problem is that I literally have to use a sledge hammer to drive it on or off. It fits fine across the front lip of the bucket, but is very tight on the support arm sides where the bolts attach it to the bucket.

Question - would it be alright to simply grind the sides of the toothbar down slightly so that it just slides into place easier? Or does this affect the strength, flexing, etc....? I probably only need to take off 1/8". Anyone else have this problem, or is a very tight fit like this considered normal?

Thanks

 

[tallyho8]

My Markham toothbar has about 1/8" clearance and is very easy to remove and install and very sturdy.

 

[ragkar]

The interior dimensions of my bucket is 60 7/8 inches and my JD toothbar was 60 7/8 inches wide. No clearance.
I opted for discarding it and buying a markhamwelding replacement. It fit perfectly.
The guy I gave it to said that he touched up the interior welds of his bucket and then it fit. A close fit but he was able to get it on.
There's an interesting discussion here
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/nh-owning-operating/108663-ordered-markem-tooth-bar-today-4.html

I was looking at a documentary on the blizzard of 1977 in Buffalo and I noticed one heavy metal operator scooping snow with a bucket with toothbar.

 

[texasjohn]

Grind it down until it slips in.... no problem with decreasing strength....it'll just improve your satisfaction with the toothbar.

 

[Champy]

Thanks all.....grinding it is!