What Kind and Size Hooks

[jdrotert]

Most everyone's talking about having problems with hooks mounted on the end of the bucket as opposed to in the middle. I have two 3/8" grab hooks that are not welded, but bolted on so they are NOT ridged. They swing a little. I have a short length of chain (about 24" or so) with a grab hook on one end. I use this short chain to "pull" my longer chain over to the center of the bucket. I kinda forms a "Y" so the pull is on the loader arms, not the center of the bucket. I have seen way too many buckets with deformed top center edges. I do like the idea of a heavy angle bolted or welded in place on top of the bucket. I'll take a pic tomorrow to show everyone what I am trying to convey. In the meantime, a quick drawing will have to do.

 

[Buster57]

I am taking delivery of a L3010 this Saturday and so I called the dealer and asked his opinion. He said now is certainly the time to have them welded on the HD bucket, but not on the front but in the back. Cost about $50.
Three hooks for standard logging chain. In the back of the bucket they are out of the way and have extra strength for vertical lift. Obviously everyone must be very careful to evenly distribute the load and not do damage to the arms.
This was for general-purpose future applications but I thought it was an excellent idea to weld them on the back.
Hope it helps.

 

[gerard]

here's some pics of my solution

 

[gerard]

another view

 

[gerard]

and lst view - what I like was the ease of installation, it's removable and if I ever get/need heavier chain I can just widen the slots. It also reinforces the top lip of the bucket and distributes the force over the whole top.

 

[TonyC]

Buster...are you able to post some pics of your installation? I'd be curious to see how the dealer does it.

 

[Buster57]

I will post a picture as soon as i take delivery of the tractor.

 

[billboe]

Gerard, I like it! Now I just need to find some angle iron..