backstop with FEL forks

[mikehaugen]

the other fork thread prompted me to ask this. I have a set of forks from a forklift as well as the backstop, I do not however have the mounting plate for the forks. I have been looking to get one, and was under the impression that I had to find one that would be compatible with my backstop, but am now thinking maybe I don't care. Do you guys use a backstop with your forks? I guess maybe I don't need one, and would be nice to limit the weight. Maybe I should just forget about the backstop idea?

 

[Willl]

Like a roll bar or seat belt, it's not important till needed.

Be careful.

 

[hr3]

How would you attach it without one,, The reason I ask is I did it but they "the forks" attach to the ATI quick hitch...

 

[BHD]

yes use the back stop, UNLIKE a fork lift that stays basically flat/level , when a loader lifts many times, the forks tilt back and if carrying some items you may find them in your lap with out a back stop,, and a 1500 pound Bale or other load, mostly likely would be fatal.

 

[mikehaugen]

The reason I ask this is because many people use bucket forks, and end up with less backstop than I would have with just the mounting plate (the back of the forks create about a 18" backstop). They don't seem to complain so I didn't know how much of an issue it was. The forks/backstop fare from a Linde (~5k) forklift, so it probably won't be that big of an issue to find the right mounting plate, I guess the weight was the bigger issue as the backstop probably weighs close to 100lbs.

 

[2458n]

Agree with the idea that you do not need a backstop until you need one. The hood on the small Kubota says I need one. A couple railroad ties or big logs can really crowd you when they come back at you -instead of dumping as you had planned.

 

[hr3]

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/198650-bucket-forks-rebuilt-pin.html Here is a pic of mine,, no dents in the hood yet...

 

[Sfrankland]

This is the forks I made up over Christmas. The backstop is only 1 1/2" x 1/4" flat bar that I bent on the press and welded the pieces to the inside of the outer frame. This was then welded onto the fork assembly. For the cost of the flat bar I figure it will more than pay for itself the first time I need it. Also it doesn't impede the use of the forks or my vision when coming into a load.

 

[Gary Fowler]

This is the forks I made up over Christmas. The backstop is only 1 1/2" x 1/4" flat bar that I bent on the press and welded the pieces to the inside of the outer frame. This was then welded onto the fork assembly. For the cost of the flat bar I figure it will more than pay for itself the first time I need it. Also it doesn't impede the use of the forks or my vision when coming into a load.

That is very professional looking job. Looks easy to build, lightweight and very strong

 

[Sfrankland]

Oh and I should of added this famous line to my post. Just ask me how I know. I was lifting a 15" thickness planner up to put it in the back of a pickup with my neighbours Mahindra tractor. We had it strapped down but the strap slipped and $3000 dollars latter my neighbour had a completely new front end on his tractor.

 

[mikehaugen]

so, it seems that the consensus says that I should use the backstop. I can't argue with that, thanks for your insight/experience guys.