Forks 2000# vs. 3500# Forks

[Deere Dude]

I have a 3720 with a CX 300 loader and heard arguments both ways for heavier or lighter forks. Stronger vs. lifting capacity. If forks are heavier, you can lift less. If forks are lighter, they bend easier.

The question is; If you have a tractor approximately my size and you have either a light size or a heavy size set of forks, do you regret getting the one you have and wish you would have gotten the other size?

I had people with a 2000 series and heavy forks complain about the lifting capacity.

I am trying to decide what weight capacity to get. Depends on the responses I get here. Thanks

 

[jake98]

Are you really ever going to lift anything like a ton? I bought a set of cheap clamp on forks and they're just what I need for occational lifting of gadgets and stuff.

 

[John_in_TN]

As long as the fork capacity is at or above the lift capacity of your loader you will be ok. Anything heavier just reduces the load you can carry.
I have a 3520 with a 300CX loader. My 1800 lb capacity, Everything Attachments forks handle everything my rig can throw at them. I have had them about four years now and have hit the limits on my loader hydraulics numerous times with no damage to the forks.

 

[Deere Dude]

Are you really ever going to lift anything like a ton? I bought a set of cheap clamp on forks and they're just what I need for occational lifting of gadgets and stuff.

I'm sure I'll lift as heavy of a load as I can with that tractor. Some light stuff no doubt, but also at times I will max out the tractor I'm sure. That's just me.

 

[jake98]

I'm sure I'll lift as heavy of a load as I can with that tractor. Some light stuff no doubt, but also at times I will max out the tractor I'm sure. That's just me.

That's everybody, not just you.. but with forks on? A buddy of mine has a heavy duty set on a bigger CUT and he can almost move a cube of block with it. Max loads are hairy. Leave some safety margin and you're better off, unless you're moving stumps or something you don't mind dropping.

 

[jinman]

I would recommend buying forks that are rated higher than the loader's breakout force rather than lifting force. I don't think 3500 lb forks weigh that much more than 2000 lb forks anyhow.:2cents:

 

[jenkinsph]

I would recommend buying forks that are rated higher than the loader's breakout force rather than lifting force. I don't think 3500 lb forks weigh that much more than 2000 lb forks anyhow.:2cents:

Very good point^^^^^

 

[GreatWhitehunter]

Since the cx loader doesn't lift 2000lbs you'll be fine. I've got the horst 2000 lbs for my 300x and they're well built.

Matt:thumbsup:

 

[crazyal]

Are you talking about forks that mount to the bucket or a set up where you remove the bucket?

 

[SamSpade]

I have a JD4320 (48 hp as opposed to your 43 in the next larger tractor frame) with a set of Horst 3700# forks. I use them a lot and like them. I am glad I went with these heavier ones. If you are going to use them a lot, I would suggest having some hooks welded on before you bring them home. Also add the pins and eyelets for a three point option and they will be even more useful.