Landscape Rake on my FEL

[bandit67]

I need to do some regrading close to our foundation before I dig some new drainage trenches, including ones to dump the downspouts into. The mucky clay fill is kind of a pain to back drag with the FEL bucket, being so damp with all the rain we've been getting. I have to get this project done before the spring rains really set in, so I don't have the luxury of waiting and HOPING the clay dries out.

I wanted the ability to work the rake with a bit more precision than I would get with the 3pt hitch. I figured the loaded rears would end up making a mess up close to the house, and probably trashing the landscaping I'm trying to keep intact. With the rake sitting so far out from the front tires, I can keep the machine further away from the foundation too.

After looking things over, I decided to remove the upper 3pt hitch mount from the rake to lighten it up a bit, and then use 2 existing bolts on the rake frame to attach to the pallet forks (already had holes drilled at the tips). It only took me 30 minutes to set up.

I wouldn't use this particular setup for any heavier duty or higher speed work, but for this type of light duty precision back dragging, it's working out great.

 

[Smokeydog]

You made a tool to improve the job. Sounds like you know the limitations and see a better way to get the results you want. Nice job!

 

[jeff9366]

A simpler, 'factory' alternative is the Ratchet Rake bucket attachment. Ratchet Rake requires minimum storage space.

VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=tractor+ratchet+rake+grading

 

[shooterdon]

I bought a SSQA adapter for $200 that lets me put 3 PH attachments on the FEL. I mount my rake and back blade and it works for light duty work. I plow light snow falls that the blower will not handle well with the blade. The rake is handy for scratching up soil before overseeing. Works for moving plies of leaves too.

 

[npalen]

Looks like the landscape rake on the FEL would also work great for pulling trash out around the edge of a pond.

 

[Xfaxman]

I have this old 6' landscape rake. Removed the Cat0 3 point frame and use it in a receiver hitch:

 

[bcp]

This is a similar arrangement, used for ditch cleaning, but it's a blade on a rear loader.

Bruce

 

[Gem99ultra]

Awesome idea, bolting the rake to forks. I'll be modifying mine like you did PDQ! Thanks for the tip.

 

[bdhsfz6]

I use this SSQA / 3 pt adapter to attach my 8' York rake to a FEL:

Skidsteer 3 Point Attachment Adapter Skid Steer hitch front loader 129 LB HD



Using the 3 pt adapter allows the rake to angle. It would be much more useful if it would tilt as well. Perhaps a cylinder operated by a 3rd function valve could be rigged to do so.