Derek, good questions. I have absolutely zero experience with this but I can visualize two things happening under high pulling loads, neither good.
First, it would seem that there must be a tendency for the chain to be pulled into a straight line between the pulled object and the hooks on the top of the bucket. This would mean that the chain line under the bucket would try to lift the bucket up vertically so the chain could straighten. This could either damage the cylinders or actually lift the front wheels off the ground.
Second, the towing force could easily exceed the lift rating of the FEL (at least in my case, 880 lbs.). What happens then? It seems again that you could damage the loader cylinders or arms. Or maybe they would even suddenly release upward creating a bad situation. I don't know if the hydraulics would react this way, but it is a strange situation. The bucket arms are being forced in the "wrong" direction (upwards) by a force greater than they could generate by their own down pressure.
Just thought experiments.
Glenn
First, it would seem that there must be a tendency for the chain to be pulled into a straight line between the pulled object and the hooks on the top of the bucket. This would mean that the chain line under the bucket would try to lift the bucket up vertically so the chain could straighten. This could either damage the cylinders or actually lift the front wheels off the ground.
Second, the towing force could easily exceed the lift rating of the FEL (at least in my case, 880 lbs.). What happens then? It seems again that you could damage the loader cylinders or arms. Or maybe they would even suddenly release upward creating a bad situation. I don't know if the hydraulics would react this way, but it is a strange situation. The bucket arms are being forced in the "wrong" direction (upwards) by a force greater than they could generate by their own down pressure.
Just thought experiments.
Glenn