Anybody know about Tractor Front Loader capacities (LOLER content)?

[m_c]

A neighbour is needing to get his tractor through a LOLER.
They've done an initial inspection, with the most expensive part being the forks are worn.

However the biggest problem is there is no load capacity sticker.
It's a rebranded ALO/Quicke 720US sold as a MF 872.
I have the operator manuals for both, and the 720US is rated at between 800kg and 2000kg depending on measuring point and height.
The MF872 is rated at a flat 1000KG.

However I'm aware loaders are often downrated depending on what tractor they're fitted to, but other than the maximum front axle load (4500kgf), I can't find anything in any of the manuals about how this would have been calculated, other than the capacity depends on the tractor it's fitted to.
The other tractor and loader combo I had to deal with, had charts for downrating.

I suspect the issue is that capacity plates on 2004 tractors/loaders probably weren't really a thing anybody really worried about then.

Would a simple sticker stating 1000kg max lift be acceptable?

 

[Gareth J]

Probably best to approach the tester and ask advice. They're not there to catch you out they're there to help make sure equipment can be used safely by people.

That said, I see plenty of "things" with hand painted, or weld written "SWL 500kg" on them.

 

[Munkul]

One approach based on common sense...
Two limiting factors on a loader - stability with/without rear weight, and hydraulic lift force. You need an SWL that takes both into account.

I'd see what it could lift weight wise whilst remaining stable without rear ballast. Then see if it picks same amount at the ground, where the hydraulic force is greatest. Make a SWL plate up, rivet it on, job jobbed.

(this advice is only worth what you paid for it, ie nothing)

 

[addjunkie]

Id suggest contacting the manufacturer and asking!

 

[lchris21]

It would have to have the manufacturers nameplate permanently attached along with serial numbers etc. Any monkey can put a sticker on or paint an SWL rating on, but unless there is some form of load test certification to back it up then its worthless Im afraid. The attachment is not traceable and will have no record otherwise.