FEL Bucket 54" or 60"

   / FEL Bucket 54" or 60" #51  
I wonder if someone buys a new tractor, installs a bigger aftermarket bucket and breaks a part of the loader if they would cover it under warranty.

I know someone that did this and when they came to pick the tractor up for repair he took the bucket off and put it in the barn before they arrived, he got away with it but I wonder what would have happened if he left it on..
 
   / FEL Bucket 54" or 60" #52  
In my case, when I bought my B2910 about 16 years ago, I initially decided on the 60 bucket. Bigger is better, right?

I am pretty sure my tractor and yours are the same physical size. Actually both buckets are on the light duty side.

Anyway, I changed my mind and went for the 54 inch bucket with a heavy duty tooth bar. I welded a piece of angle across the top to facilitate welding on chain hooks. This stiffened the top of the bucket and the tooth bar stiffened the bottom lip. Worked well for 15 years.

I think as long as the bucket is wider than the wheels the narrower bucket is a good choice. Personally I think for my needs choosing the narrower bucket was the right decision.

This summer for the first time I damaged the bucket. I was digging out a stump and do not know how I did it.

45143834-5253-4857-8A96-38B330B0BA6C.jpeg

I think either bucket would have bent the same way.

On a rare occasion I have thought I was glad I had the narrower bucket, when I was loaded with some heavy dirt or stone. But usually not.

Heat and a sledge hammer straightened the bucked edge. I welded on some 3 inch by .25 inch stiffeners on the bucket sides, hopefully enough so the edges will not bend again.

34D01F89-2465-402A-9AA0-315917A78486.jpeg

A9560659-FCA3-4B62-B4B3-918F620DAE9E.jpeg

A narrow bucket is better if you are digging with the loader. Otherwise either one will suffice, if you do not need to move the tractor between close clearance.

Bottom line is both buckets are light duty buckets if you do not modify them. So choose which one you like best and do not look back...:)
 

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