FEL hooks

[dlabrie]

I have been reading the posts on FEL hooks . I don't have access to a welder so I followed Bird's method. The parts cost me $14 at hardware store and unfortunatly the dril bit cost $14 too. I will post a series of picts of the project. starting with the holes.David

 

[dlabrie]

Here are the parts. Most new except for a few large washers from the junk pile.

 

[dlabrie]

Here it is installed from the top.

 

[dlabrie]

From the bottom.

 

[dlabrie]

Using both hooks for a wide load.

 

[dlabrie]

And finally, Centering the chain for a center load.

 

[skipperbrown]

I did almost the exact same thing in almost the exact same place except I put the 'u' bolt inside the bucket and hang the hooks inside the bucket. I guess it changes the load from vertical to horizonal. My hooks are on swivels and my cost was about $20. I used stainless 5/16" 'u' bolts.

I use quick detach pins so I can remove the hooks quickly if I don't want them in the bucket. I consider my installation to be for light duty use only.

I already had a drill bit. That bucket was tougher to drill than I thought it would be and I think my bit needs sharpening now.

mark

 

[MrP]

What kind of drill bit did you guys use? Is there anything special I should look for?

 

[dlabrie]

I used a Dewalt 3/8 bit for metal. I imagine any bit for metal will do. I used a punch to start, then a small bit for a pilot hole then the 3/8 bit. I used a ew drops of oil to help it along.David

 

[dlabrie]

Mark,I put mine on top so they hang just on the top edge when in use and lie out of the way when not in use. Also, I am not an engineer, but I think that with the bucket tilted up. I spread out the weight points from the chain to the U bolt, top front edge and bottom edge. David