Chain hooks on Bucket or just use pallet forks? (For misc chain hoisting)

[lowepg]

Seems like someone could fabricate someone kind of hook or chain stop that would slip into the notches on the pallet fork frame?

 

[deereman75]

I've never been big on hooking over forks due to the risk of slipping off. Also not thrilled about the hooks on the bucket since it limits you to a chain (risk of damage depending what you are lifting, and the chains most people use technically aren't rated for lifting)
On my loader buckets I have a couple of holes drilled (or torch) into the bucket. One in the middle of the cutting edge, and a couple along the top edge of the bucket. Easy to shackle through, and attach chains, wire rope, or synthetic slings as required.
On my forks (large off-road lumberyard style forklift rather than a loader attachment) I have a 1" hole cut in the tip of each fork with a mag-drill. I keep a pair of 1" shoulder rigging eye bolts along with nuts, washers, and a crescent wrench in the cab. You can use single or both as required, and there is no chance of slipping off the forks.

I've seen enough things be dropped by slings slipping off the forks. I'd rather not hurt someone, damage an expensive part, or drop something on a customers truck when it is so cheap and easy to use a much safer setup.

Also it is worth keeping a few synthetic round slings on hand. The 4' by 3000# rated ones are between $10 and $20 depending where you buy, and you will find yourself using them constantly once you have them. They choke tightly even to slippery parts, yet will not scratch or dent even polished items.

 

[dstig1]

I've used both methods a lot. When using the forks, I tend to lift with the chain or sling down in the corner of the forks, with the tips pointed up so it can't slip anywhere. Plus it is close in for better lifting power. If you need to be out on the end of the forks, then you should take extra precautions such as c-clamps to hold the chain/strap in place.

 

[CobyRupert]

If you use a grab hook, think about what size chain (and capacity) you’ll be using.

 

[Smokeydog]

 

[71bronco]

Since my forks are on most of the time I welded a hook on the frame of the forks and use it a lot. Also have hooks on my bucket so I'm set either way.

 

[mcfarmall]

I welded a 1/2" D-ring to the center of my pallet fork frame so my lift point is very close to the loader pivot pins for maximum lifting ability. I welded a 5/16-3/8 weld-on grab hook on each side of the backstop for load securement only...not for lifting.

 

[deereman75]

Another benefit to the hole in the tips of your forks is you can also install a hitch ball or drop a pin through it, for moving trailers or implements around the yard. It can be handier than hitching to the drawbar at times

 

[Smokeydog]

If you’re in the hook/ loop business, add some for tractor tie down too.

And backhoe.
View attachment 716559

 

[Smokeydog]

Sorry, don’t know why the wrong picture was loaded twice.