I have a 329D John Deere Skid steer and I know the 29 represents 2900 pounds of operating ratings. I have 3 sets of counter weights and I cannot find how much that effects operating capacity. I've seen specifications like the following as well: Which indicates the operating rating is only 35% of capacity is that the normal? I have a project and they want me to set 3,600 pound blocks. I'll have to get them off a trailer and place them no stacking on the ground. Is the 329D capable of doing that without a high risk of damage to the machine and also do it safely? I have a 450c that can lift 13,000 pounds it's just quite a bit more work to get it there. I have a 580c as well, I assume it could lift them from either end. I have a set of forks but they are not rated for this capacity and the blocks have lifting eyes. My plan was to use a smooth bucket with a couple of chokers (rated for the load) around the bucket and hooked to a clevis thru the eye. Is there a better suggestion? I realize this is pretty basic questions but I've never tried to lift blocks before and I figure I can avoid the learning curve with all the wisdom on this board. Thank you,
Lifting blocks as your suggesting would likely work as long as the block can't swing into the front of the machine's cab. The 35% ROC on track machines, in my view is a bit of a misnomer. Most everyone runs off of the 50% rating the SSL use or they advertise both ratings. The smaller front idler is the reason I believe for the 35% rating. I doubt your machine would have an issue with 3600 pounds. I typically use a set of forks. My SSL with a rated capacity of 3400 ROC at 50% lifts them no problem (CASE SV340). My forks are rated for 5K.
I would rather have a short jib like this than chains around the bucket, if you have a lot of them to set. You can curl the jib to you for more height and less reach out, which will increase capacity. I wouldn't extend the boom in the heavy blocks, just leave it retracted for capacity. https://www.palletforks.com/skid-st...rane-jib-–-5000-lb.-lift-capacity/194128.html
Thank you for the input , I only have 3 to set so I will just try and be careful with the swing.