Fork lift Frame

[Dale1995]

I am in the process of building a set of forks for my 2320 John deere tractor, I just purchased a set of 1000 lb capacity forks from a supplier, since my tractors lifting capacity is only 989 lbs, I figured that the forks would be plenty strong. My question is I am going to build this fork lift frame out of 2" x 4" rectangular tubing, in order to keep the weight down I am planing to use 3/16 " wall thickness, instead of 1/4" thickness. Tubing is very strong, has any one out there done this and what is your opinion? Will this be strong enough for my needs? Thanks for any help.

 

[kennyd]

I think the 3/16" will be fine.

 

[Chris_in_Oz]

I could do with a fork lift on my "little blue thing" -what did the forks cost you?

 

[kennyd]

-what did the forks cost you?

I paid $100US for my used 42" forks from a forklift dealer. They where "out of spec" for real forklift use but still have plenty life in them for a CUT.

 

[Hookblock]

I don't know if this is what you are looking for. I used 2''x4'' 3/16'' for the top and bottom. 3/8''x 4'' for the sides, and 6'' x 1/4'' channel for the loader mount. 1 3/4'' round for the forks, that are old brick forks.