4-in-1 How thick does my SSQA adapter plate need to be?

[TORQUIN]

I am researching changing my Kubota LA723 loader over to a SSQA and have been looking at weld-on adapter plates to go onto the back of my WR Long 4n1 bucket once I cut the pivot pins off. I have noticed that many vendors offer 3/16", 1/4", 5/16" and 1/2" plates to weld on. Is there any formula or rule of thumb to determine how thick my plate needs to be? Obviously I want it string enough, but there is a significant price difference as you go thicker.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[Gary Fowler]

Obviously, the bigger the tractor, the thicker the plate has to be. I think my B26 has 1/4" mounting plate (haven't used a micrometer on it though) and my LS P7010 plates are 3/8 or maybe a little more. I will measure them next time I am out if I think about it.
For your tractor, I wouldn't go more than 5/16".

 

[TractorGuy]

I think a good rule of thumb is to use the same thickness of the bushing plates are currently. Probably need to consider what grade steel the new plate is.

My full size backhoe with an 84 inch loader bucket only has 3/16 thick plates for the bushings.

Not sure if you shouldn't double the thickness of the bushing plates. Just remember when adding weight you decrease lifting capacity.

 

[Industrial Toys]

I think all the plates I have gotten (various friends make them) were around 1/4". The biggest decision was always whether to get a whole plate or one with the oval hole in the middle. I never got the one with the hole yet. What and where you weld the plate on factors heavily into the overall strength.

 

[TORQUIN]

I think all of the plates are A36, the cheapest grade out there. I saw one site that mentioned it. None of the others have mentioned steel grade.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[ruffdog]

I would go with the 5/16".

 

[DK35vince]

I went with 5/16" a while back, and what I would recommend for that size tractor/loader.