Stupid or smart - ballast/trailer hitch/log skidder

[fatboycowen]

I need a trailer hitch. I also wanted one to raise and drag logs (not too frequently). I thought maybe i'd get a cheap 3 point receiver. Then, i thought maybe i could surround it with concrete, and use it when i need a medium ballast. I have a backhoe when i need serious ballast, but its big and clumsy, and has no hitch.

For 23 bucks, i can get a hitch extension, and weld it on to whatever length i need. I'll weld on some braces from scrap i have laying around. Then, weld on some rebar to further engage the concrete. Then, build a plywood box around it and fill with concrete. I'll be just over 100 bucks when done.

Hopefully the attachment works.

Thoughts? Stupid idea? What type of hook should i weld on to the top, for log skidding?
My only concern is how well the bottom pins are attached. It looks like they are just thread in, and i don't know how thick the steel is that it's threaded into. Should i be concerned with that?

 

[Egon]

That wil work. Weld on a few chain hooks & drill a few holes for pins. Be aware that you may be pulling high. Keep the bucket full and a foot or hand on the controls at all times.

A search on this site will turn up many examples of what you wish to build. Way back Henro had a really nice one.

 

[flingwing1969]

Just a thought, while there is a real time and place for towing a trailer, I really prefer to push the trailers around my place. It is much easier to maneuver them into place (I have trees everywhere to dodge) I would have one in front and in back but I would use my front receiver way more often than my back one - I have a receiver on all of my FEL attachments.

Great idea and nice plan.

I'm thinking along these lines too, but doing a dump bucket/carryall box with a 4 to 6" concrete bottom for ballast when my hoe is off. I've been trying to figure a good solution for adding a winch too, maybe above the box and towards the front with the cable running through a snatchblock under the box? The box/ballast with hydraulic TL dump will happen soon, the winch/skidder maybe later.