We bought a 2015 John Deere 310 L backhoe, and obtained a class 3 quick attach, forklift carriage for the tractor. We now need forks. We have two choices. We can get a set of 42 inch, class 3 forks that will fit the carriage. They are full taper. New but rusty from being left in the warehouse for years. $250 for two. We can also get a set of 48 inch, class 3 forks, normal taper but used. $350 for two. We expect to use these to take pallets off a truck, or move materials around on pallets. Is 42 inches long enough, and is the full taper a problem in any way? Or should we spend the additional $100 for 48 inch? Is new better than used? Thanks
No problem. Just depends on your preference and job requirements. If you can use them the price sounds good ID pull the trigger. Longer might be better but here again just depends on your use. Used is fine as long as the are straight.
I suspect that for the amount of forking you will probably do, the 42" forks are fine.
What do longer forks give you?
reaching across flatbeds to the other side, but your loader has reach that a forklift does not. That negates that benefit. It only comes into play up by the headache rack. Easy, drive around the other side or re-position the truck. and 42 to 48 does not make a difference there IMO. you have to go to 6 foot forks. Then they are ungainly pain in the arse in tighter quarters.
Generally you'd want at least 4ft forks if you're moving Lumber drywall and other building materials around.
If your only moving pallets the 44 inch is best I don’t think it makes much difference in taper or new or used. I would get the longer ones for versatility.