I have an extra 1t counterweight to bolt on under the existing counterweight on a 21t machine. I have one existing 1inch hole available which I wanted tapping along with 2 more either side so the weight will be held with 6 x bolts. The local engineering shop said 1 inch is a bit big to tap considering they will do it by hand upside down. They want to do 3/4 and use a 1.5mm thread. Will 4 x bolts be sufficient to support the counterweight? The plate is 3/4 inch thick. In the pics the 2 large holes are for the main counterweight.
I wouldn't be worried about 6 - 5/8" bolts holding 2000 pounds. I think the old IH 856 has only 4 - 1/2" bolts holding the weight bracket with 1000 pounds. The 3/4" bolts will be just fine. If you're worried, spread a bunch of silicone or gasket eliminator on before bolting up, really make it hard to get off for the next guy.
So, can I ask what you're doing that you need more lead in your pencil?
Oh man you’re really baiting Vtech there! I’ve put a longreach on so need it for balance, it’s really sketchy without. Do you mean silicon oN the mating surface or threads? I was going for locktite on threads.
Yes, mating surface. In essence, glue it on. Most people would be amazed at the holding ability that silicone or gasket eliminator has. An actual OEM long front, or an extend-a-stick? Most factory long fronts go on an existing machine. If it's really sketchy, I'd be surprised if 2000 pounds makes a "ton" of difference hehehehe
You could use Nord Lock washers on the bolts. They won't vibrate loose and easy to remove with no heat needed. Have heard Loctite isn't foolproof for vibration.
Ive nearly tipped a machine into a deep dam that would have pinned me in the cab and it was the wake-up call I needed. This OEM boom and arm is a different ball-game and I’m not willing to risk it especially since I’ll be doing long runs desilting water channel. I’ll be sidecasting none-stop , it isn’t practical zig-zagging all day to get over the idlers and I’m also running a slightly larger than standard tilting mud bucket. Agree with the silicon advice, that stuff is awesome these days, thanks for the tip.