FEL Bale Spear

imported_Charliechan · Dec 22, 2003

My dealer told me that they make bale spears that will attach to the bucket, but that he would avoid them, because if you lift a heavy bale, it could bend the bucket. I would like to ask you experts what yall think about that. The dealer recommends a bale spear that requires unmounting the bucket and then mounting the spear to the arms of the ML260 FEL.

WHich way should I go ?

Charlie

rback33 · Dec 24, 2003

I'd listen to him. Not only could you damage the bucket, but using this type of setup will reduce your lift and roll back capacities a great deal. The further out from the pivot point the more force that will be required. If it is a KMW ML260, there are both skid steer and pin on type quick attaches available. These both make for an easy transition from bale spear to bucket and back. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Rollin_M · Jan 8, 2004

I produce approx. 250 tons of hay per year and we use our 4110 to move it all. I opted for the ATI Tach All which replaced the stock bucket (which in my opinion is not worth a ****). I agree with the dealer as the stock bucket is not worth the metal it is made from and the bolt-on bale spear will only exacerbate the stock bucket's intolerances. For instance, I bent the stock bucket beyond repair within a few months of use.

Regardless, I bought a used, quick attach JCB bucket from HOLT machinery's rental line for approx. $150. The bucket was in excellent condition and came with removable teeth. More to the point, I purchased a new, quick attach bale spear (as I could not locate a used one) for moving my round bales (approx. weight is 1,200 lbs.). It is tough, heavy duty and ideal. It cost approx. $500.

I have to write that I will never own another tractor without a quick attach on the FEL like the ATI Tach All.

If you will moving many bales, then I would not purchase the bolt-on bucket style. However, if you move two to ten bales a year, then I would improvise and make do with them.

Hope this helps.

5030 · Jan 8, 2004

Charliechan:

I'm not familiar with a Mahindra bucket, but I agree with the other posters. I do use a bucket spear with my 5030HSTC Kubota in our commercial operation. I handle upward of 400 rounds per year X 2. The only way I'd use a bucket spear is with an excavation type bucket. A material bucket will flex and break in the corners. You put a tremendous strain on the bottom lip of the bucket every time you lift a bale and that strain is concentrated in a small area, right in the center of the bucket, right at it's weakest point. I also agree that a Bobcat style quick attach is the only way to go. I have pallet forks, etc. and the quick attach makes it easy to change implements.

jwcinpk · Jan 8, 2004

I got the 6000 with the QA Plate and a bale spear and I'm glad i did. I can be from bucket to spear to bucket in no time. I don't know how anyone could make a stronger bucket than Mahindra. I've used mine for everything from digging up stumps and grading driveways to pounding in posts and it's held up wonderfully. I chose the QA options for convenience.