Can I use angle iron this way

[shadetree]

This will be category 0 3 point lightweight forks, can the angle iron be turned this way or would a L shape be better? Forks ~34 inches long Frame 20 inches wide.

 

[PILOON]

IMO, angle would be better.
On the other hand I'd prefer 1.5 X 3 (or 4) channel.

 

[shadetree]

Thanks, This is really going to be for light weight stuff. Will be hooked to the 140 3pt that is on the front of a 318 so loads will be less than 300 pounds. I already have some angle iron just wondered if kinda turning them upside down would be alright?

 

[s219]

They are a lot weaker in that orientation. However, it's possible they will still be OK. I'd suggest calculating the loads/deflection. You don't want to guess at this stuff -- would be a shame to ruin the forks after doing all the work to fab them.

 

[George2615]

What size and thickness is the angle you have?

 

[shadetree]

I'm sure it is 3/16 inch and believe it is 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 but it might be 2 x 2.

 

[George2615]

With 3/16 inch you'll be pushing it lifting 300 lbs. It may work for a while but will probably bend. I made a set pf 3 pt. forks using 1.5 x 4 x 1/4" thick channel and have bent them. I straightened them out and welded reinforcing plate steel on the bottom of them but rarely use them since I bought a set of QASS forks.
If possible, clamp one of your pieces of angle in a vise then 34" away from the vise put your full weight on the angle to see if it flexes.
Just my opinion but I would not feel safe lifting something using the angle you have.

 

[2458n]

Do it right and it will last a lifetime. 3/16 will be light.

 

[SSdoxie]

If you have plenty of this angle iron, use 4 pieces. Lap 2 together forming a C channel then stich weld them together.
Even though you may not bend the single 3/16 with weight you plan to lift, they could bend digging into ground while sliding under the load.

 

[Jim Timber]

Angle's not going to be a good choice. Find some used forks. I got mine for $99/pr and they're hardly used.