Forks; Clip-on or Chain?

[jimbob_rebel]

I used my front loader and a tow chain today to hoist a 500lb. 5' countyline box blade from the bed of my F-150 and park it on some boards. I had just enough clearance but it occurred to me while I was doing this, and to my wife who was watching and helping out, that forks would have been necessary for anything much bulkier than what I was lifting. I Know they make chain and clip-on forks which will mount to the FEL bucket and I was wondering what kind of experiences y'all have had with each type and what you'd reccommend.

 

[California]

I built a set of strap-on forks and described them in this thread.

2.5 years later that still looks like the right answer. While they could theoretically ding the top of the bucket, it's already dinged so it doesn't matter. That's a lot better than bending the front cutting edge, which I'm concerned might happen with the clamp-on type.

 

[sigpros]

I have a set that goes on the front of the bucket and a bolt tuns down to hold them on. I really like therm alot.

 

[jimbob_rebel]

California, I like those forks of yours, they'd work basically like the chain on type?

I've already got a honey-do list as long as my arm and I don't weld..........who sells quick attatch forks other than Tractor Supply?

 

[California]

I would say mine are chain-on forks! If it's not clear in that photo, each load binder spans the gap between the front and rear chain for its fork.

They were so simple to make that I expect any welder could duplicate them if you show him that photo (and my comments in that post). 1"x4" channel should be good up to a loader rated capacity around 800 lbs, maybe more.