BX23 Brush fork

[ametcalf]

The broad array of projects on TBN inspired me to try and build a brush fork and a grapple for our BX23. Here is the brush fork. The tines are 3' pieces of 3/4 inch rebar and they are held together with 1/4 inch by 2" flat stock. I have an old Lincoln stick welder but I am not a welder. I can strike an arc and generally stick two pieces of steel together by using a lot of rods. Anyway here are the results.

 

[Depmandog]

Ametcalf

What a great idea!! I just moved this idea to the top of my projects to do list. Just bought a new to me L5030 w/FEL and was considering ordering a grapple to help me deal with tree trimming brush. Don't think I need to now - thanks to you.

The "Forker" - since I named your invention - don't forget me after you make your millions building and selling the "Forker" to the masses!!

Dean

 

[ametcalf]

Ametcalf

What a great idea!! I just moved this idea to the top of my projects to do list. Just bought a new to me L5030 w/FEL and was considering ordering a grapple to help me deal with tree trimming brush. Don't think I need to now - thanks to you.

The "Forker" - since I named your invention - don't forget me after you make your millions building and selling the "Forker" to the masses!!

Dean

Thank you for the kind words. I have a mock up of a wooden grapple posted under the title of wooden BX23 grapple under the build it yourself forum. It has been a busy week but I hope to at least get all the hydraulics ordered for the grapple next week. It is great that this web site is so encouraging and helpful.

 

[Short Game]

I think I will do a variation on this too. I need something just like that. The only change I'd make is, instead of bolts, use pins through the bucket and lynchpins to lock them in. I wouldn't want to have to go get a wrench.

 

[Don87]

I think I will do a variation on this too. I need something just like that. The only change I'd make is, instead of bolts, use pins through the bucket and lynchpins to lock them in. I wouldn't want to have to go get a wrench.

You would be much better off with bolts. Pins would eventually 'wallow' the holes out, and cause much bigger issues.

 

[Short Game]

I built a set of bucket forks that pin in place and have used them for years. They go on and come off with ease. The design just has to have some element that keeps it from working around when in use.

 

[Don87]

I built a set of bucket forks that pin in place and have used them for years. They go on and come off with ease. The design just has to have some element that keeps it from working around when in use.

Cool, could you post some pics?

 

[blunosr]

I've been thinking of buying a manure fork for clearing brush, limbs, etc. That re-bar gives me inspiration to make my own. I have a Kubota MX5000, so I think I'll use re-bar that's as heavy as I can find in the junk yard.

Also, I think I will pin it through the sides of the bucket with half inch pins and lynch pins. Easy on/off is best for me. I have a bolt on scarifier for my Bobcat, and it's just a pain in the butt to put on/off.

Thanks for the idea!

 

[k0ua]

Excellent project, Like the others I would have probably used pins, but whatever works for you. If the holes in the bucket wallow out you could weld a little gusset plate on, and/or just weld up the holes once in a while. Would just take a couple of minutes. With a welder you have the power to put metal back:thumbsup:. Anyway it looks like a very useful tool for very little money, and oh by the way, your welds look fine, and they are working for ya.:thumbsup:

James K0UA

 

[cttractor]

The broad array of projects on TBN inspired me to try and build a brush fork and a grapple for our BX23. Here is the brush fork. The tines are 3' pieces of 3/4 inch rebar and they are held together with 1/4 inch by 2" flat stock. I have an old Lincoln stick welder but I am not a welder. I can strike an arc and generally stick two pieces of steel together by using a lot of rods. Anyway here are the results.

I like what you did and the photos you posted show that works well. Thanks for sharing! This just moved up on my list also.