Pallet fork size - 36", 42" or 48"?

[alia176]

Just curious what size is a good all around length for forks. I'm picturing a set of pallet forks rated around 2,000lbs but wasn't sure what length would be good for all around use. I see myself using the forks more for non pallet lifting work - engine pulling, moving/carrying bulky items. But now that I'll have forks, I may opt for finding pallets to store things on.

I need a skidsteer quick attach style of pallet fork so my choices are huge. But, I'd like to find a vendor that'll do free shipping or low cost shipping to a terminal. I am finding decently prices 2,000lb rated for less than $600 but the shipping comes to $400! If you have any preferred vendors, please let me know. Why 2,000lbs rated? My loader can only lift 1400lbs!

My local CASE dealer has the HLA attachments pallet forks model HD20B0500, 2000 lb for $800. These look great, made in Canada. So, I have a local option. I'll call around more tractor places next week.

Thanks for your inputs.

 

[kennyd]

I like 42" myself, they fit most pallets perfectly.

 

[JAD99]

I'm using 42 also. Typical for pallets and good all around.

 

[k0ua]

I like 42" myself, they fit most pallets perfectly.

Same here, That is what I have.

 

[SSdoxie]

I have 42".

 

[Industrial Toys]

Sometimes long forks are very usefull but othertimes they get in the way. I would never buy new pallet forks as so many are always available up here (canada) from fork lift service guys. Like $100.00/pair!

I bought a whole carrier with hydraulic adjustable forks for peanuts! Just welded on a skid steer plate. Never get off your machine to adjust forks again!

My first fork carrier for my JD 6200 came from HLA when you could still buy direct from the factory and I supplied the forks.

 

[xring100]

I like my 48" never wanted shorter. But I have thought about getting a set of 60" from the local recycling yard. I could see how some people like shorter forks but I routinely lift large objects and wood that is bigger than standard pallets. Then again I can Lift ~2900 lbs (800 mm forward, max height). The longer the forks the easier the tips are to see. I have to stand up to see mine

 

[MtnViewRanch]

42" for me also.

 

[grsthegreat]

have 42" myself. they were $100 cheaper and also lighter ... win win

 

[MN3240]

I would vote for 48" universal style skid steer forks, even with a 1400# lift capacity. The longer forks are very handy for loading and unloading pickup beds, 8' wide trailers, pallet racks, etc.. I store snowmobiles and 4 wheelers on 48" wide pallet rack and it's nice to have the vehicles fully supported when lifting them. Used forks around here on craigslist and the auction sites seem to go for close to new prices. I have never seen a set of forks for sale for $100.