Lifting Attachment For Dual Bale Spikes On Pickup Flatbed

Lifting Attachment For Dual Bale Spikes On Pickup Flatbed BALE HANDLING Bale Handling (31B) 21-5-37 We made a lifting attachment for the dual bale spikes on our pickup flatbed. I built it be-cause I know of someone who twisted the bed of their truck by pulling with one spike. We made this device to fit over both spears to pull fence posts, lift down cows, carry equipment, and even pull small trees and shrubs out of the ground. We even use it to pick up our lawnmower to change blades. The device consists of a pair of sleeves made out of 2-in. dia. pipe. They slip over the ends of the spears. A piece of 2 3/8-in. dia. pipe goes between. Large flat washers are welded inside each sleeve to keep them from slipping all the way down the spikes. An 8-in. upright is welded and gusseted to the center pipe with a 1/4-in. chain hook attached for lifting. I drilled 1/ 4-in. holes through the lifter and the spikes so the device can be pinned into place. I keep the lifter in the truck at all times because I never know when I might need it. We also made handy PVC pipe covers for the bale spikes to keep them from rusting. They also serve as safety shields. We used 2-in. dia. schedule 40 pipe to cover the 2-in. dia. spikes. We glued caps on the end of each pipe. Keeps the spears shiny and smooth for better bale handling. We've used these for two years. (Lary & Roxanne Weeks, Rt. 1, Box 85-A, Aline, Okla. 73716)

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