Can I use angle iron this way

   / Can I use angle iron this way #1  

shadetree

Silver Member
Joined
Aug 1, 2007
Messages
132
3pt forks.jpg

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.
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way
  • Thread Starter
#3  
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?
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way #4  
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.
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way
  • Thread Starter
#6  
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.
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way #7  
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.
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way #8  
Do it right and it will last a lifetime. 3/16 will be light.
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way #9  
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.
 
   / Can I use angle iron this way #10  
Angle's not going to be a good choice. Find some used forks. I got mine for $99/pr and they're hardly used.
 

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