Cheap FEL indicator

[JW1554]

A loader bucket position indicator is a handy thing to have and my recently acquired BX2200 does not have one. I cobbled the following out of scrap and it works fine.

The rod is 1/2" pvc attached on the bottom end to a small strap hinge with a hose clamp and running through half of a 3/4" pvc coupling as a guide at the top. The hinge and coupling are secured to wood mounts shaped to fit and glued to the machine with JB Weld. The glue spot was sanded and wiped down with acetone, and seems secure.

The rod would probably not last long in brush, but it would be easy to replace, and I don't have much brush.

Picasa Web Albums - Jess - Kubota
Picasa Web Albums - Jess - Kubota
Picasa Web Albums - Jess - Kubota

 

[milkman]

Just above your white pipe (black arrow) is the factory installed bucket level indicator, the top edge of the level indicator is parallel to the bottom of the FEL bucket, so even if your tractor isn't setting on level front to rear, that one will still let you get the bottom of the bucket level

 

[JW1554]

Thanks Milkman. I wondered what that bracket was for. Learn something new every day

 

[milkman]

Since you don't have brush, yours will come in handy since it is closer to eye level and will work well for quick reference.

 

[hill]

Thanks Milkman. I wondered what that bracket was for. Learn something new every day

When I got my B7800 that bracket atop the loader bucket carried a green and white label with "bucket level indicator" (or such as) in bold black lettering right on the horizontal upper surface.
I've since removed the label because I THINK I can remember what it said.

 

[DiezNutz]

I've since removed the label because I THINK I can remember what it said.

Just curious why you would intentionally remove the label?

 

[Toolguy]

The indicator you made is so much handier than the stock strap. I have a similar indicator on mine. When working a pile you can set the level of the bucket before lowering it and then just drive into the pile. The tape reference will allow you to adjust the level slightly so that you can either dig more or less or the same as the last time. I wouldn't want to be without it now that I have it.

 

[JW1554]

Thanks for the comments. I've gotten used to this thing and am happy as a pig in clover with it. I find myself referring to it constantly. Not only is it accurate and useful, but since the cost was basically zero, it also makes me feel virtuous.

My wife thinks it would be a dandy place to mount a small flag. Then I could feel not only fiscally prudent and virtuous, but also patriotic. Is that a good return on a few pieces of scrap or what?

 

[srossman]

look good Jw.
As a side note, how do you like using Picassa web? I use it locally, but haven't published any of my photos to the web yet.

 

[JW1554]

Srossman -

I've just started using Picasa Albums, and like the convenience. However, I'm still unsure of what the recipient actually sees. That is, when I click on the link I have posted, I get the actual website and can see all the photos, change settings, etc. I think others see only the picture, but am not sure.

I have used Picasa on my computer for a long time and think it is an excellent program. I like the convenience of it being linked to Picasa Albums. Just not sure how it all works yet. I did find a way to insert the actual picture from the Album into a post instead of a link, but this forum seems to use links more.