Clamp on pallet forks, are they worth buying?

[Carl Bert]

I'm thinking of buying a set of pallet forks. I don't have much storage space and I won't leave anything outside, so I was considering the clamp on style forks. Can anyone tell me if they are worth buying?

 

[arlen4720]

I think they would be OK for a large AG tractor with a 4000 pound lift capability. I wouldn't consider one for my 4720 which lifts 2300 or so pounds. They just stick the load too far out. I love my REAL pallet forks though.

 

[scobrado]

I'm happy with the pair I bought with stabilizer for $169 delivered from palletforks.com:

Clamp on Pallet Forks LW & Stabilizer Bar $169.00 | Pallet Fork Attachments | Clamp on Pallet Forks | LW Clamp on Pallet Forks | palletforks.com

I see forks that go for a lot more, but my needs are relatively light.

 

[kirkawilson]

I too am very happy with the HD clamp on pallet forks I bought from palletforks.com. I clamp them to my Bushhog loader bucket on my New Holland 1920 CUT and have moved storage buildings, carried implements, and even moved pallets. They have held up nicely. The LW (lightweight) set linked from an earlier post appear to have a much lighter puck design, which is a critical connect point, so I would suggest going with the HD set. Also, I wish I would have purchased the stabilizer bar at the same time, but instead, frequently dismount the tractor to straighten the forks. One could make a stabilizer bar but not for much less than palletforks.com sells them for. I did notice the pucks dented the the bucket steel while doing heavy lifts so your bucket lip steel should be stout.

 

[Carl Bert]

I think they would be OK for a large AG tractor with a 4000 pound lift capability. I wouldn't consider one for my 4720 which lifts 2300 or so pounds. They just stick the load too far out. I love my REAL pallet forks though.

What size pallet forks do you have? I see they range from 36" to 60".

 

[Terryfied]

I used to have clamp on forks but soon figured out that the complete fork attachment is vastly better. Sure they're more expensive but if you use them a lot they'll pay for themselves quickly. With clamp on's you obviously can't see through the bucket while aligning to pick up a load unless you have a spotter or you get on and off tractor several times. You also reduce the lift capacity greatly with them sticking out so far from pivot point. Save your bucks up and get the attachment and forget about clamp on forks, you won't be sorry!

 

[newbury]

I'd like to write I'm pleased with the HD pair w/ stabilizer I bought from palletforks.com.

BUT I haven't gotten home to use them yet

Delivery was quick.

I'm planning on being able to use them on either of my tractors. I only need pallet forks once and a while but when I do they will be very useful.

 

[Carl Bert]

I used to have clamp on forks but soon figured out that the complete fork attachment is vastly better. Sure they're more expensive but if you use them a lot they'll pay for themselves quickly. With clamp on's you obviously can't see through the bucket while aligning to pick up a load unless you have a spotter or you get on and off tractor several times. You also reduce the lift capacity greatly with them sticking out so far from pivot point. Save your bucks up and get the attachment and forget about clamp on forks, you won't be sorry!

Yeah lift capacity was one of my concerns with the clamp on type. What size forks do you have or recommend?

 

[Terryfied]

I have 42" forks and I think they're rated for 1 ton. That's about max for my loader so I didn't see the need for the extra expense and weight of the larger set. I should mention that my loader has the quick attach system which makes mounting a breeze and is a must have imo. Mine are made by Braber Equipment and I got them from my New Holland dealer for around $600 which is a very good deal.

 

[arlen4720]

What size pallet forks do you have? I see they range from 36" to 60".

I have the John Deere Worksite Pro 48 inch forks (I have the skid steer mounts on my loader). They are very heavy duty. They weigh about 400 pounds. I use them more than the bucket. I wouldn't want the 42 inch.... The longer ones make it easier to see the tips from the seat. How much can your Kubota lift?