FEL Work Platform

downsizingnow48 · Sep 19, 2018

I am replacing all the windows and siding on the Mendocino place. Three buildings and a lot of work. Rather than ladders or scaffold I decided to make a work platform for the tractor. I have seen two or three TBN folk use IBC Totes, which looked like a good idea. So I did the same.

I will be spending quite a bit of time in, it so added a few things to make it worker-friendly. Plastic caps are on the cut tubes so I can't gouge myself. Safety chain so I can't step off by accident. Racks to hold a tool bucket, a tool belt, and a trash bucket. And bumpers made out of 4x4 redwood, so if I nudge the siding it won't immediately make a big scratch. The top bumper extends out 24" on the entrance side, so I have a place to lean a ladder other than the side of the buildings.

npalen · Sep 19, 2018

Looks good! I use a 2x4 framed sheet of 1/2" plywood with 2x4 railing. A pair of the IBC tote frames end to end would make a nice railing instead of the 2x4's.

dalola · Sep 19, 2018

Great idea! What does that weigh? Where would one find such a thing (the tote)? Cost?

downsizingnow48 · Sep 19, 2018

The IBC tote (frame plus 275 gal plastic container) weighs 135 lbs. I guess the frame weighs about 90 lbs. Here in Sacramento they are in Craigslist all the time. Used. For food grade, $100 - $125. For non food grade, $50 - $75.

AchingBack · Sep 19, 2018

downsizingnow48 said:
The IBC tote (frame plus 275 gal plastic container) weighs 135 lbs. I guess the frame weighs about 90 lbs. Here in Sacramento they are in Craigslist all the time. Used. For food grade, $100 - $125. For non food grade, $50 - $75.

Very good job.
Is it mounted to forks? If so, what keeps it in place? To prevent it from creeping down, do you leave your engine running while working? I know I would have to.

downsizingnow48 · Sep 19, 2018

Yes the tote is made to be carried on pallet forks and that is what I use. I turn the engine off. With that weight, which is not very much, the loader drifts down maybe an inch in an hour. I would not be in one position for that long anyway.

Gem99ultra · Sep 20, 2018

A couple of suggestions to consider...
The bumpers extending out 24" might be too much. Maybe 6 inches - just enough to keep your ladder from sliding off.
Put the gate on the side, not on the front side.
I added D-rings and light weight straps fastening the platform to the tractor, just as an insurance factor.
Keep the floor rough.
I simply mounted mine on a pallet, put down a 3/4 inch floor, and added castors to the pallet. It sure is handy for tree-trimming, etc..

I like the end caps idea. I just used aluminum tape like the use for a/c ductwork.

mikester · Sep 20, 2018

Looks good, you read my mind! Do you chain it to the forks?

downsizingnow48 · Sep 20, 2018

Thanks for the suggestions. I had not thought of strapping or chaining it to the forks but will do that. Using plywood for a flat slip resistant floor is also a good idea.

Here is another photo that clarifies how the gate, bumper, and ladder work. I have several step ladders that will work at the heights I need for the siding and window work.

woody · Sep 20, 2018

I don't see using the ladder prop if you have the platform to work off of, I left the top bar on mine and put the safety chain about mid way. the plastic caps are a good idea I just cut mine flush and sanded smooth. they are fifty dollars at the local feed and seed store.