Bucket Hooks FEL Hooks

J_J · Nov 17, 2009

Very easy to do what you want.

clundog · Nov 17, 2009

Hooks are pretty versatile. I added clevis mounts to mine as well!

wolc123 · Nov 17, 2009

I have the heavy duty bucket and 400x loader on my JD 4120. There are 1/2" holes across the cutting edge for installation of a tooth bar, etc. I keep a couple 3/8 chain hooks in the toolbox, and a few 1/2" bolts. When I need hooks, I just bolt them into these holes. Having them on the lower edge is nice because it gives you more lift from the tilt function than you would get from hooks on the top of the bucket. That bucket is really strong. I also drilled a couple more holes further back on the bottom of the bucket in line with the lift arms, and bolt a couple pieces of heavy angle to the bottom for use as forks for lifting logs, etc. I dont think the standard bucket would work so well with these tricks however.

JB4310 · Nov 17, 2009

3/8" grab hooks are handy to have, but put them on the sides, save the middle for your receiver tube, you can just weld one on as well.

I bolted mine as I wasn't sure it was a good idea since mine was one of the earlier top center installs (that I had seen at the time). Now everyone has caught on for obvious reasons, it's versatility is limited only by your imagination.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...g/93535-bucket-buddy-instead-weld-hooks.html?

You can read about my reasoning for the receiver tube here.

JB.

Diamondpilot · Nov 17, 2009

I paid $5 each for my hooks so that is a deal. If I were you I would also pick up a step bumper hitch at HF or any auto parts store for $20 and have them add it also.

I put 3 hooks on each of my buckets. The pic is a old one when I had only 1 hook but soon realized I wanted more. I put 1 in the center on top of the hitch and 1 on each corner.

Chris

Bob Ha · Nov 17, 2009

When I asked my NH dealer about this I was expecting $75 or $100 but like I've said several times in these threads... "I feel lucky to have found a dealer than aims to please" and I am pleased.

This dealer is not looking to make every penny they can on every little job so I don't feel nickel and dimed to death. Thanks for all the info and pictures... TBN is great!

bota7800 · Nov 17, 2009

sailorman said:
I 'm following this thread gettin' ready to get hooks. I don 't weld and plan on having hooks welded on re-enforcing plate by a pro to bolt to loader. Question : how hard is it to drill holes through the metal on the loader ? I have pretty good drills and bits.

It is not hard if you have a strong drill and good bits. I drilled 4 holes to mount the plate for my PHD. I did not use my cordless, I prefer corded for that type of operation.

That said, I had my hooks welded on, I trust the welds. My hooks were welded to a plate which was then welded to the bucket (hopefully strengthening it) I paid about $100 at a local welder including the plate. I provided the hooks from AWDirect: Weld-On Grab Hook - Grade 70 - 1/2" - Mfg# 11-12WGH.

Do a search here. There are lots of good posts on bucket hooks including the one that I unashamedly copied.

have_blue · Nov 18, 2009

JB4310 said:
3/8" grab hooks are handy to have, but put them on the sides, save the middle for your receiver tube, you can just weld one on as well.

I bolted mine as I wasn't sure it was a good idea since mine was one of the earlier top center installs (that I had seen at the time). Now everyone has caught on for obvious reasons, it's versatility is limited only by your imagination.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...g/93535-bucket-buddy-instead-weld-hooks.html?

You can read about my reasoning for the receiver tube here.

JB.

Nice setup JB!

I made a pair of movable hook brackets that slide anywhere along the bucket. No
welding or drilling into the bucket. (not that it hurts anything)