Need Ideas For Forks

   / Need Ideas For Forks #1  

tmain

New member
Joined
Jan 17, 2009
Messages
17
Location
Carthage, NY
Tractor
2003 TC35D
Hey all, I just received a set of forks to be used on my TC35D, I also purchased the universal weld on mount from Northern Tool. I would like some Ideas and mabye some pics of forks you guys may allready have, especially the angle the forks are at when the level indicator is in the notch. The forks will mainly be used for handling firewood logs, but I would like to make them adjustable. I have a welder so welding is not a problem. Oyea, quick detach bucket.

Thanks
 
   / Need Ideas For Forks #2  
There are alot of good threads on what you need to do, ask this question in the build it yourself or attachments section, that's where most of these threads were, and alot more people hang out in those forums, they will steer you to those threads or answer your questions.

You can search for them, "pallet forks" or just "forks" I have no good luck searching but maybe you'll do better.

I have a set of JD forks that I modded for use on 3 pt, you might consider that while you're at it, makes moving pallets easier than with the loader as long as you don't have to lift them high.
Throw a receiver tube on that frame to, those come in super handy front or rear.

As far as the level indicator, if yours is like my JD, it's adjustable so that doesn't matter.

There's alot of good stuff on this, just gotta find it.

Good luck, JB.
 
   / Need Ideas For Forks #3  
Gosh! You know, I think I'd set my forks on a flat surface and then move my tractor up to them with only the QA plate attached to the tractor and the level indicator set exactly in it's valley. Then, I'd look at what the shape, size, and angles I'd need to build and attach the adapter to the forks. Maybe sacrifice a cardboard box and cut out some template pieces as go-bys.

In addition, I'd go on a "shopping" tour to look at some forks at any nearby dealer and keep my eyes open as to how the QA plate is attached.

I would not make any change to the level indicator if it works for your current bucket. Make the forks conform to the same geometry so you don't have to make changes on the level indicator. Alternately, you could paint a band on the indicator shaft to use for the forks only.
 
   / Need Ideas For Forks #4  
jinman is right.

You want the forks level when the indicator is level. If the indicator is calibrated for your bucket, match the forks to it.

My used JD forks were already set up that way when I got them. Never gave it another thought -- just put them on and the indicator was right.

One of the things you need to deal with is that fork leveling is much more sensitive than your indicator. You need to be able to see as much of the fork as possible in order to get it right. For instance, when I pick up a pallet from the back of a truck, I can not use the indicator for anything but an initial approximation to the right angle. I have to stand up and look at the forks to get them exactly right.

The indicator is only good to keep from tilting the pallet enough to have something fall off. Same thing when I put the pallet on the ground. Being able to see the forks is critical.
 
   / Need Ideas For Forks #5  
Good point Dave, the indicator is only accurate when the bucket/forks are on the ground. The geometry changes as soon as you lift it.

For that very reason I would NOT worry about trying to make the fork carrier have the same geometry as the bucket. I would simply make the forks square/perpendicular to the quick attach frame. IMO much simpler to engineer.

EDIT: My JD/Horst forks are just made square like that, If I want to adjust the level indicator it's just a set screw, but I've never had to.
Wish these CUTS had self leveling buckets, I was totally naive to the fact that they didn't and only found out when I got it home, I was use to skid-steers and larger loaders so I just assumed that my new loader would be self leveling, I was a little disappointed that day :( end edit:

I do use the indicator with the bucket but don't with the forks, like you said with loader mounted forks it's difficult to engage pallets and often you have to stand up to see what's going on.
For me with seat safety, that's a royal PITN cause then I can't move the machine forward as I'm standing. That's why I like the 3pt forks, easy to engage.

JB.
 
Last edited:
   / Need Ideas For Forks #6  
I have to stand up and look at the forks to get them exactly right.

Me too! At those times, I really wish I had a hand HST control like I have on an old Gilson riding mower. Trying to stand and feather the HST pedal at the same time is a challenge. I disconnected my seat switch within a week of buying the tractor, so that's not a problem.
 
   / Need Ideas For Forks
  • Thread Starter
#7  
Thanks for the input. I've never seen the Build it Yourself forum before... Got some great ideas there.
 

Tractor & Equipment Auctions

2013 VOLVO VNM TANDEM AXLE DAY CAB (A52141)
2013 VOLVO VNM...
2005 Pierce Enforcer Fire Truck (A50323)
2005 Pierce...
SET OF HANG ON WHEEL LOADER FORKS (A51242)
SET OF HANG ON...
Hayrack (A50515)
Hayrack (A50515)
Round Bale Feeder with Skirt (A50515)
Round Bale Feeder...
2015 Ford F-150 Ext. Cab Pickup Truck (A50323)
2015 Ford F-150...
 
Top