Slide in pallet forks

[denmansoft]

I got the idea from these pallet forks from Alchemysa :

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/102060-forks-my-fel-4.html#post1168982

I made them as 2 separate forks instead of one frame. This makes it easier for those of us that can't easily pick up 100lb+ of steel...

Base Material is 2x4 steel tubing. This is cut and welded so it fits flat on the bottom of the bucket and up the first slope of the back.
On mine I welded a hinge on the vertical part so it folds for easier storage. When in use, the hinge is just locating the vertical not taking any on the compressive strain. The vertical piece has a 1 1/2 angle welded on top to give a point that locks into the angle bolted to the top of the bucket. The outer bolt heads were left on to stop the fork from sliding off the end.



I'll get some detailed pics of the forks if anyone is interested.

 

[denmansoft]

Here are some pics of the forks in use. I do actually use them for pallets too.

Here I am using them to place a 6x10 header on my new garage.


Here I have extended them by sliding in 12' 2x4 for lifting sheets of plywod to the attic floor.


They come in handy for moving things like my 5th Wheel hitch.

 

[Bill Hoffman]

If you'd be so kind, some detail photos would
be great. I'm not sure I can picture the hinge.

Thanks,

Bill

 

[denmansoft]

I don't have any pics yet but I looked at my visio drawings and visio has a neat print feature. Here are my drawings. I put the hinges in the 65.2 deg angle.
All the tabs are for bolt in 2x2 spreaders to hold the forks lined up. Not implemented yet. These have been so useful even though they flop around a bit sideways.
www.denmansoft.ca/downloads/tractor/tractor_parts.htm

 

[denmansoft]

Some days I wish I had made them slightly shorter so total length would fit inside my 48" bucket. easier to move them around when putting everything away.
I MUST paint the tips ORANGE so it is easier to see where they are when poking into pallets or brush etc.

 

[smfcpacfp]

Looks like a great idea. I could have saved a few bucks if I would have done something like that.

 

[Gary Fowler]

Now if the ends were just tapered, they would look just like solid steel store bought high dollar forks.

 

[denmansoft]

But then I wouldn't be able to extend them with 2x4!