Ford 1700 770 FEL front mounting bracket broken

[JohnFourteenSix]

The mounting bracket where the FEL attaches to the body of the trailer (New Holland (19SW1814) - FORD LOADER 15 & 17 TRACTOR (1/79-12/84) Parts Diagrams - see part 6 in the diagram) is cracked near the bolt hole on both ends. I don't have a welder nor do I know how to weld - and I'm unsure how much it would cost to actually repair it. A new one appears to be around $100

It seems quite flimsy to me though - I think it cracked because I jacked up the trailer with the FEL too many times - but from what I understand this is ok to do. Has anyone modified this bracket to be stronger? I have a feeling that if I get a new one, the same thing would just happen again.

 

[Kernopelli]

I would take it to a local welding shop and have them cut the old ears out and replace with new ears fabbed from at least 1/4" or preferably 3/8". Cant speculate on price, just not familiar with shop rates but it should be quick and easy. It will definitely be more stout than a new bracket, but then again, it did take 35 yrs. to break the original one:thumbsup:

 

[Gale Hawkins]

I agree with beefing up the OEM part at a local welding shop that repairs this kind of equipment.

 

[square1]

And while your there have some standing ribs welded along the outside edges, front & rear, of the uprights. That's where it wll break next.

 

[Gale Hawkins]

And while your there have some standing ribs welded along the outside edges, front & rear, of the uprights. That's where it wll break next.View attachment 540977

So like fixing one weak link just lets you find another one?

 

[Wolfy]

I would suggest getting the bracket, and a new trailer jack.