FEL forks using forklift forks

[ronjhall]

Here is a thread where more parts were than you did to make them fit FEL. Click Here
Another thread. Click Here
My favorite thread on making forks fit a FEL. Click Here

 

[westbrooklawn]

ronjhall -

Thanks for the links. I also like the frame that was fabricated for the 430 loader. My problem is that my kubota LA463 loader does not have a QA bucket, so I want to make my fork frame attach to the existing bucket. I know I will be sacrificing some lift capacity by having it that much farther forward.

I have some ideas on how to attach to the bucket, but am certainly open to more suggestions. Thanks.

 

[JRP]

In April 2002 I started a thread "Post your pictures of forks". A whole lot of TBN readers sent in their pictures.

You did well in buying real forks. The metalurgy is superior to regular steel shapes such as channels. You won't bend them.

I put in a new reply post today in "Build it yourself" so you can find this old post.

Have fun and build it right.

JRPOUX

 

[gotrocks]

I did not have a frame for my forks. We just added to the top and I curl my bucket to catch the round pipe then "un-curl" and my forks are ready for use.
I am able to vary spacing with this setup.

 

[gotrocks]

Here is a view showing one of my uses. Had to have the tank replaced on well pump. Did not want pump man to try moving or working inside the little space.

 

[westbrooklawn]

gotrocks-

Very interesting setup. I wonder what the capacity would be? It seems like you may have some lateral movement where the forks meet the cutting edge of the bucket if your load shifted to the side.

I like the concept though!

 

[gotrocks]

The forks will hold more than my 2910 will lift. There is some flop side to side but it has never been a problem. I also have used (abused /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif) the forks together and individually to dig up shrubs and small trees. I sure beats the "trench wrench."

 

[westbrooklawn]

Gotrocks - check your PM. Thanks.

 

[uhmgawa]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">(
The forks have the standard 16" spaced brackets on the back side of the verticals... these slide on horizontal bars on the standard forklift frame. I wold like to use these brackets if possible since it would allow me to adjust the fork spacing just by sliding the forks apart or together.)</font>

Yea that is the route I took as well. I believe the terminology
is "ITA Category II" with respect to the nominal 16" mounting
configuration. A new set of 48" forks was around $250.

I built a quick-tach style frame to mate with my loader
from some 4" channel growing in the backyard and a
few sundries scrounged/bought elsewhere. Here is a
picture before it was actually completed just to verify
whether my structural stress calculations were accurate.
The goal was to keep the frame as light as practical to
avoid excessive loss of loader lift capacity.

 

[uhmgawa]

Sometimes things can't wait for projects to complete.