front end loader Q's

73bronco · Jan 17, 2001

front end loader Q\'s

Hello all,
I recently tool delivery of a TC33 with FEL. I have question about the loader level indicator rod. My dealer says some people cut theirs off at the upper bracket when the bucket is level, but its possible that the rod can then fall out of the hole. So he suggested marking it and not cutting it. Anyone come up with a slick way to mark it or other ideas. My second and final question is, has anyone welded or otherwise attached hooks to the top of the loader bucket to hook a chain to. And if so, did you reinforce the top rail on the bucket. Thanks in advance. Ron in N. CA

RobS · Jan 17, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

Ron, congratulations on your tractor. If you search the forum for "bucket hooks" you'll find a lenghthy thread covering every possible aspect in exruciating detail. It seems most owners do have a hook or two. They are very handy. For me, I bolted on a tow hook with a keeper tab. No welder and I didn't want to weld on my new tractor anyway. I made a simple back up plate to further spread the load under the attaching nuts. I prefer the tow hook (equivalent to a slip hook) to a grab hook as I frequently use nylon slings to lift with. Do it, you'll get lot's of use out of it.

Rob

Bird · Jan 17, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

73bronco, mark that level indicator rod with paint. Pick the spot you want the mark, put a little masking tape on to protect the rest of it, and I prefer a spray (rattle can), but you could use a brush.

And yes, I think nearly everyone bolts or welds chain hooks on to the top edge of their loader bucket (even if the manual does say not to). Some use grab hooks, some use slip hooks, some put one hook in the middle, some put one on each end, and some use 3 hooks. I have grab hooks on top of each end of the bucket, bolted on with U-bolts. Some do add re-enforcing to the top of the bucket; I decided it wasn't necessary for the way mine is done. Just remember to hook up things to keep the weight centered and lift very slowly at first because you can quite easily turn the tractor over and/or possibly damage the loader arms.

Bird

TomG · Jan 17, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

A couple of comments: With a hook in the centre of the bucket, there's a tendency to lift loads from that hook. A sizable load can buckle a lightweight bucket, so some discretion is needed. For heavy loads, it's safer to run chain over both loader arms.

When securing loads onto a bucket with a loop of chain: If the bucket doesn't have a grab hook, it's possible for the chain to loosen and the load can slip around the bucket.

Investing a several chain load binders also is a good idea, because a chain can't be pulled very tight when getting a link into a grab hook. The handles on old-style binders should be ties down, because they can pop open. I know a trucker whose brother had an old-style binder break his jaw.

Blu21 · Jan 17, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

I use some red electrical tape on the level indicator,quick to replace when worn.Tom

ERNIEB · Jan 17, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

73bronco, I have the NH 7308 FEL. I tried marking it with different color paints, but always had trouble seeing the mark. Finally with the bucket level, I cut it off even with the top of the sleeve. Hasn't come out of the sleeve yet.
I guess it is possible, but for that to happen I would think there has to be some other force acting on the rod, pushing on it or bending it. Since even with the bucket tilted all the way down, the cut off end of the rod does not reach the end of the sleeve. Again, this is on the 7308

Ernie
"It will be appalling to you to learn, and see herewith inclosed our alarming weakness"
James C. Neill, Alamo commander Jan. 1836

TomG · Jan 18, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

I use silver duct tape. However, I haven't found the level indicator particularly useful. The bucket is only level when the tractor is on level ground.

dullpain · Jan 18, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

I use Black Electrical Tape. Has lasted 3 months and no sign of wear. Easy to change though when needed. Easy to see.

paccorti · Jan 19, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

Ron,

The larger TC's (16LA loader) have a bend in the bucket level indicator. I'm not sure that's a possible solution for you but it works great on the 16LA. Or perhaps the 16LA indicator will fit on your loader. Check out the attached picture from the manual.

Peter

Bird · Jan 20, 2001

Re: front end loader Q\'s

Peter, that's a type of level indicator I don't believe I've seen before. I like it. And the picture is great; I doubt that I could describe that one with words in a way that anyone else could understand.

Bird