Modifying a Bale Spear?

[teg]

I want to lighten a Bale Spear, it weighed 250 lbs. I unbolted the old brackets and would like to weld new bottom brackets that will lower the overall weight by 100 lbs. As a side bonus, I can bring the hook up points 2 inches closer to the tractor (when you talk about a half ton, that adds up, (I think ) ).

Questions, Will it be strong enough? and does it matter which way the brackets go? I know I can reverse the pins later but would like to know if one way is stronger, my gut says to the left (But if it's not welded good - it really doesn't matter which way, eh? ).

(I have a question in the attachment section on if I should just sell this but I would still like to know if you guys think welding the brackets a certain way works better or not).

 

[tessiers]

I usually mount mine with the pin pointing out because my draft links swing out freely. It makes it a little easier to hook up without adjusting the sway links.

I have bent a few angles mounted in this configuration however a small gusset, maybe 2x2 or 3x3 welded on the bottom or top of the angle should give it all the strength you need.