Loader L39 FEL bucket modifcation

caballero59 · Dec 2, 2017

I am not satisfied with the bucket profile on the L39. The cutting lip is too short compared to the height of the bucket which is too high. It makes it hard to load since it requires power to bunch the material up. Would much prefer a skidsteer style which is long horizontally but short vertically. Has anyone ever tried lengthening the lower cutting edge so the cutting edge of the bucket extends further forward? I'm not concerned with the reduction in lift capacity.

mikester · Dec 3, 2017

Have you considered trying a bolt-on tooth bar?

I'd personally recommend finding/trying a used larger QA bucket over modifying the stock one cutting edge. Most construction loaders use the narrow/tall buckets for better break out force. Depending on the work you do you might not be happy with the longer skidsteer style buckets as they aren't as good for grading and you get more spill back onto your tractor when you curl the bucket or raise the loader arms.

Are you mostly loading loose materials from a pile or cutting hard pack soil directly?

Tomtint · Dec 3, 2017

I have the same bucket you have on my L3700, it's difficult to see what you are loading at times. So I switch back and forth with my skidsteer bucket when needed. You just need to be careful because the bottom of the loader arms sit much closer to the ground with a SS type bucket and can drag if you are not careful