What size FEL hooks

Redneck in training · Nov 30, 2010

I also plan on adding hooks to the bucket. But I will weld few hooks facing forward. That way I will be able to hook up a chain behind the bucket. I would like to also add few rope cleats:

Expensive one:

Harken Trigger Cleat: Mauri Pro Sailing

or somewhat cheaper one:

Harken Cam Cleats: Mauri Pro Sailing

or really cheap

Amazon.com: Clamcleat Rope Cleats Clamcleat Cl201 Vertical Rope Cleat: Sports & Outdoors

magicheater · Nov 30, 2010

Scruffy1 said:
Well after stopping at a hardware store I got to see some grab hooks they had. I decided to go with the 5/16" hooks, a 3/8" link still slid into it.

I use the 5/16" hooks as well, 1/4", 5/16" and 3/8" chain all work with it.

Baby Grand · Nov 30, 2010

I used RV style slip hooks from TSC - about $10 each, I think. At the time I didn't have any welding equipment and drilling & bolting was a quick solution that has work well for the past 3 years. Like Easygo, I prefer to work with ropes most of the time. They weigh a lot less than chain and are much easier to work with - especially when you are dealing with lengths of 25 ft (or more). If there's a lot of dragging to be done, or abrasion is a concern, then I switch to 5/16" chain and use grab links on the slip hooks:

kendive · Nov 30, 2010

Scruffy1 said:
Hey Guys,
I read through the other 1000 posts on FEL hooks and learned a lot. I am getting ready to put some hooks on my B2620. I am planning on having the 3x3 angle welded across the top of the bucket. I am thinking of having 1 slip hook on the top center and 1 slip hook on the back of bucket between the lift arms.

Now here is the question: I want 2 grab hooks on the top of the bucket, just outboard of the lift arms by 2" to 4" (1 hook on each side) I have a 5/16" chain but I was thinking of having 3/8" grab hooks welded on. Will the 3/8" grab hooks work ok with my 5/16" chain? The reason I am thinking of 3/8" hooks is I can the use the larger chain as well. I just don't have experience in using these hooks and don't know how much slop is in these hooks or is the groove pretty tight fitting. I am assuming a 3/8" chain would not fit in a 5/16" grab hook.
Thanks for the advise guys.