Brush Fork

[nctox]

I saw something like this on-line and in Northern Tool's catalog, and thought I could make one. It is a brush fork that attaches to my small tractor's loader bucket. I made the tines out of 2"x3"x3/16" tubing, and the clamps from 1/2"x4" plate. I haven't painted it yet, but I used it for an afternoon moving brush and rotten cut logs that I never got around to splittin' for firewood. I think I could have used smaller tubing, but I got a better deal on what my supplier had already in stock. It's definitely stronger than the bucket. I had to add a strip to the bottom of the bucket to stiffen it and prevent the clamping bolt from pushing thru it. I tried to remove some heat induced bowing by running several beads across the bottom of the clamp. Limited success....
My welds aren't perfect,,yet.. He!!, they may never be, but I'm having a good time.:D

[urch55]

The welding looks pretty good, but I think your tractor will tear up the mounts. Your tines need to run under the bucket about three quarters of the way. Weld one or two tabs behind that so you can pin the forks on then use 3"x3"x3/8" angle so it rests on the cutting edge and the leg that is aiming down should be pierced so the tines run through it. This design will have no pressure on the bolts, and all the pressure will be on the cutting edge pulling down, and bottom of the bucket pushing up. The only reason you need some pins is when you dump the bucket the forks won't fall off. I cut my tines out of 3/4" plate 2" tall. I built the one I discribed but I have no pictures this was before computer days at least like it is now. Well I did not have one, This was back in 1987.

[nctox]

Urch55,
Thanks for the response. I'm not sure I follow your description about the mounts. I'm rather new to welding and fabrication, and just designed this much like other forks I've seen. I will re-read your post tomorrow with a rested brain, and hope I can grasp your suggestion. I'm always open to learning a better way of doing something.:)

[mike landrich]

look at how these tines extend under the bucket. This is what I think URCH55 is saying

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200319505_200319505

[nctox]

I guess I didn't include a pic of the side of the mounts. I tried to copy the ones in your reference (Northern Tool's "Paynes' Forks"). That's why I had to add the reinforcing piece on the underside of the bucket. I've used it several times and it is holding up well. I think the fork is much heftier than the bucket.

[mike landrich]

I guess I didn't include a pic of the side of the mounts. I tried to copy the ones in your reference (Northern Tool's "Paynes' Forks"). That's why I had to add the reinforcing piece on the underside of the bucket. I've used it several times and it is holding up well. I think the fork is much heftier than the bucket.

Your tines do not extend under the bucket, at least not all of them. It looks like a mount is welded to a fork made of 5 tines, not one solid piece

EDIT: I don't think your design is weak, bit it could be stronger and simpler