Fork repair?...Equip guys

[jeffscarstrucks]

I picked up a set of Bobcat forks that need repair. The frame work is easy enough but one of the forks has about a one inch of fork broken off. I am sure that some idiot thought that it would be a great pry bar but it obviously did not work out:eek:. I am trying to decide how to build this up to make it a decent repair. I am planning to keep these a while and don't want to second guess myself every time I see them. I have the MIG or TIG capability but it is the composition of the fork material that I am concerned about. We had a few good Big Equip guys here for a while so I am looking for some sound advice. Thanks in advance and always reading..., JEFF

[walker]

Forklift forks right? just cut the other one off to match and taper the ends a bit on the bottom side. The very end of the forks usually see a bit of wear anyway, and I don't think you could really build it up with anything that would last.

[diamondback]

Be careful, the forks are made from HSLA materials and have a special heat treatment that they go through. Welding on them will normalize them and take away the heat treatment. Check with the manufacturer for a proper repair specification.

[jeffscarstrucks]

Thanks Guys, I think that a little touch-up with a grinder and that part is done. This set of fork-lift forks came out of a truck shop and took quite a beatin'. The little Bobcat 742 was even worse. Thanks , JEFF