toothbar: should I bother welding it?

[Mackinac Joe]

Hi Guys,

My new 7-tooth Markham toothbar is just begging to be installed on my 53-inch bucket. It came with a couple small spacer plates that appear to be designed to be welded to the inside of the bucket.

I'm sure this would reduce the chance of reaming out the bolt holes. But is welding the plates really necessary?

I'm no welder (it's been 20 years since I've welded anything and I was a novice then), and I'd have to either pay to have it done or rent a welder.

Should I bother welding it, or just bolt it up? Your advice?

Thanks,

Joe

 

[RoyJackson]

I just drilled through the sides of the bucket and used washers for spacers.
Can't say I've seen any wear or obrounding of the bucket mounting holes yet.

 

[radman1]

The plates are probably just spacers. I wouldn't weld any additional plates. Your chances of wearing out the bolt hole is next to none IMHO. I can't tell any wear in mine.

 

[Willl]

I welded mine.

 

[JDFANATIC]

I never welded mine.

 

[EdC]

I would not weld them. I've had mine off a few times already. I can back drag a lot better with the smooth bucket and get better results back dragging with the bucket than I do with my scraper. (Thanks Eddie for the idea!)

 

[gunmaker]

I've only bolted mine on. I do take them off for different tasks. I would suggest bolting them on until you determine your own use and preference.

 

[Chris2520]

I would not weld the spacers ....

Chris....

 

[Mayor]

I did not weld mine. Nice company to deal with.

 

[lincolnvt]

I did not weld mine