If you're a tractor owner, you know that having the right attachments can make a world of difference in terms of productivity, ease of use, and back-saving comfort. But with so many different options available, how do you know which attachment is the best investment for your money? In my mind, pallet forks are essential for anyone who needs to move heavy materials around efficiently. They're a true game changer when it comes to reducing manual labor and protecting your back from injury. In this video, I’ll explain why pallet forks are the best attachment investment you can make for your tractor and provide an in-depth guide on how to select the right pair.
Whether you're a small farm owner, landscaper, or just someone who enjoys DIY projects around the yard, pallet forks provide unparalleled versatility. From lifting pallets of materials to hauling logs and other heavy objects, you’ll find that a set of pallet forks can quickly pay for itself.
When it comes to pallet forks, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is the fork length. There are a few factors that will determine which length is best for you, including the size and lift capacity of your tractor and the kind of work you’re planning to do.
36" Forks: Best for smaller sub-compact tractors with limited lift capacities. These are the ideal size for tight spaces and lighter loads.
For most standard-sized tractors, 42" forks are a great all-around choice. These forks are long enough to handle most standard pallets, but short enough to be maneuverable in tighter spaces. They allow you to pick up a pallet in a row without having to back up, making them ideal for fast and efficient loading and unloading.
Longer 48" forks are best suited for larger or irregularly shaped pallets, or if you plan to use your tractor for loading and scooting items into a pickup truck, 48" forks are your best bet.
Once you’ve chosen the right length, there are a few other features to consider when purchasing pallet forks. First is the headache rack. Always check for a strong headache rack at the back of the forks. This acts as a safety feature to protect the hood of your tractor while offering visibility to the forks. However, be careful when choosing pallet forks for smaller tractors, because a heavy rack can limit your lift capacity. Ideally, look for a flat top rack that can also serve as a gauge to help you keep the forks level.
Attachment Plate Angle: The attachment plate, where the forks connect to the tractor, should be angled at 23 degrees. This angle ensures that the forks can be leveled properly on a wide variety of tractors, especially older models. Avoid cheap, poorly made forks with straight attachment plates, as they might not provide enough rollback angle to properly level the forks.
In this video, I also dive into the differences between bale forks and bale spikes—essential attachments if you’re working with round bales. A bale spike typically has a single spike and two stabilizers, while bale forks come with two spikes for better load stability.
Another important factor to consider is the origin of the spike. Generally, European-made bale spikes and tend to be stronger and more durable than their Chinese counterparts. While the initial cost might be higher, investing in higher-quality bale forks can save you money in the long run—especially when it comes to avoiding the cost of replacing bent or broken spikes.
Finally, in this video, I’m excited to introduce The Spork—a unique combination attachment that’s perfect for those who need both pallet forks and bale spikes. Designed and built locally, The Spork offers the flexibility of switching between a pallet fork and a bale spike with ease. Not only that, but it also comes equipped with a receiver hitch, making it a true triple-purpose attachment for your tractor. Watch as I demonstrate in real-time how quickly and easily The Spork can be converted from one attachment to the other!
00:00 Introduction
00:43 What to Look for When Buying Pallet Forks
05:32 Bale Spikes and Bale Forks
07:17 Introducing "The Spork"
08:22 How to Remove Forks from a Frame
11:55 Frame has a Receiver Hitch
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