Clamp-on bucket receiver hitch

[MadReferee]

Here is another of the latest creations from the shop of MadReferee. This was made for another TBN'er.

This a clamp-on bucket receiver hitch. The actual base is 18" long with 10" extending under the bucket. The nice thing about this design is that it fits over a bucket toothbar frame so you do not have to remove the toothbar to use the forks.

The base are made from 3" x 1.5" x 3/16" bar channel and the top plate from 3" x 3/8" flat bar.

This project is easy enough so that a beginner at welding can make it with no problems.

I will make available a materials cut list and design sheet in a week or so for those who may want to build it yourself.

 

[MadReferee]

Here is picture #2.

 

[MadReferee]

Here is the final picture, #3.

 

[DannyD]

You tease those of us that do not have and can not weld. How much to make/ship one to Indiana?

 

[have_blue]

Mad,

Very nifty and imaginative accessory!

I'm just wondering though, has it been tried out? What's to keep the thin top part of the clamp from spreading under a load or bind?

 

[MadReferee]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I'm just wondering though, has it been tried out? What's to keep the thin top part of the clamp from spreading under a load or bind?)</font>

That "thin" top part is 3" x 3/8" flat bar. It doesn't bend /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

The 4" pad made from the same 3" flat bar on the bottom snugs up against the bottom of the bucket. The round pipe snugs up against the beveled cutting edge of the bucket, and the 3/4" threaded rod snugs the top against the bucket. When tight nothing moves. Remember this is designed to MOVE trailers short distances, not haul them for any distances. When properly attached it will not move. As soon as the owner, 8561, tries it I hope he will post pics and experiences.

 

[MadReferee]

DannyD,

Sent you a PM.

 

[8561]

The finish coat of paint is still wet. I'll be trying it out soon. I will let everyone know how it goes, but I can't see how it doesn't work as intended.

 

[8561]

Here is a picture with the final coat of paint on and mounted to the bucket. I have used this unit to move my 5000 lb camper.

 

[8561]

Photo 2.

 

[8561]

Photo shows the underside of the bucket. The bottom pad rests tight to the back of the cutting edge, taking away any chance it can pull off the bucket while dragging a heavy trailer.

 

[8561]

Last one underneath the bucket from the other side.

 

[MadReferee]

Free plans for the clamp-on bucket forks and clamp-on receiver hitch are now available.

To get your copy, PM me with your real email address.

 

[johnday]

Mad; Just thought I'd show my version of the buckethitch I welded up with the plans you sent me. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif Only mods were 4' channel, and 1/2" solid in place of the schedule40 pipe. All materials were dragged out of the dumpster at work. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif I also got 2 1/2' square tubing for free. Only problem was the seam on the inside I hadn't noticed until everything was welded. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif I wound up using my Metabo to grind down one side of the ballmount. I also reversed the ballmount for better visibility. Thanks much for the plans Paul. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Oh, and everyone notice the correct BLUE paint job!!! /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[MarkStewart]

Nice job, almost didn't see the cat.

 

[MadReferee]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I also got 2 1/2' square tubing for free. Only problem was the seam on the inside I hadn't noticed until everything was welded. )</font>

That's why hitch receivers use DOM tubing. It's more expensive, and usually has to be special ordered, but it has no seam.

It's good to see that the plans can be modified to suit your available materials.

 

[johnday]

Paul; I think this is also a good starting point for a front mounted boompole. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif I'm running that around in my brainpan right now. 2" square should work for the boom, and some 2 1/2" DOM for an adjustable mount for the hook. Just thinking about the struts and how to attache them to the top edge of the bucket. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[johnday]

Mark; Thanks, that's the Devilcat there!! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[zapper]

I used Madreferee plans which was excellent. I made the bucket forks and receiver hitch and cost me $70.00 for materials. I am very pleased /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif Thanks Mad

 

[ronjhall]

That <font color="blue"> blue </font> does not look like <font color="blue"> NH Blue</font>. Shouldn't it be painted Black Cat Black like the bucket? /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif