Project Front Loader Pt 5: Assembling the frame and the bucket
This video shows assembling the structural frame and attaching the bucket for a DIY front loader attachment. The build covers measuring and cutting steel, welding the loader arms and crossmembers, fabricating or fitting the bucket, installing pivot pins and hydraulic cylinder mounts, and a test-fit/movement check.
Build Sequence
1. Layout and measurement
Measure and mark the main loader geometry on steel tubing and plate. Verify widths, pivot locations, and cylinder mounting points using squares and templates.
2. Cut frame and arm pieces
Cut the square tubing and plate pieces to length and angle using a chop saw or bandsaw. Deburr edges and check fit-up before tacking.
3. Tack-weld assembly and check alignment
Clamp and tack-weld the main crossmembers and loader arms together, keeping everything square. Re-check critical dimensions (pivot spacing, arm spread) before final welding to avoid twist.
4. Final welds and reinforcement
Complete welds on all seams and add gussets/angle iron at high-stress joints. Grind and finish welds as needed for fit and appearance.
5. Fabricate or fit the bucket
Cut bucket plate, form the bucket sides and lip, and weld the shell together. Attach cutting edge and reinforce the top with a crossmember if required.
6. Install pivot pins, bushings and cylinder mounts
Drill mounting holes, press or install bushings, and fit heavy-duty pivot pins. Weld or bolt cylinder clevis mounts to the arms and bucket control linkages.
7. Hydraulic hose routing and hookup (dry fit)
Route hoses and loosely connect fittings to the cylinders to check travel and clearance. Note any rubbing and adjust hose length or routing before final installation.
8. Test movement, lubrication and paint
Cycle the loader through full travel (with the hydraulic source or manually) to verify geometry and clearances. Add grease fittings to pivot points and apply primer/paint for corrosion protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials thickness should I use for the bucket and frame?
Common practice is 3/16"–1/4" plate for the bucket shell and 1/4" or thicker steel for critical wear areas. Frame members typically use heavy wall square tubing appropriate for load (design dependent). The video uses robust plate/tubing sized for the intended loads.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →What type of hydraulic cylinders and hoses are required?
Use cylinders rated for the load and stroke required by your geometry (the video uses two lift cylinders). Hoses should be pressure-rated for the hydraulic system and sized to match the fittings; allow service loops to prevent binding during travel.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →How are pivot points protected against wear?
The build uses hardened pivot pins and bushings (bronze or pressed-in steel bushings) and grease fittings to maintain lubrication and reduce wear. Proper fitment of bushings is emphasized in the assembly steps.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →How much will this cost to build?
Material and component costs vary by region and chosen components; the parts list in the video totals approximately $1,280 for steel, cylinders, hoses, and consumables. Additional unexpected costs may arise for custom components or heavier-duty cylinders.
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Consumables used during frame and bucket welding.
Primary structural members for the loader arms and crossmembers; sizes vary by design.
Cut and formed to make the bucket shell and cutting edge.
Two lift/tilt cylinders for raising/lowering and tilting the bucket (price is combined for two cylinders).
Pressure hoses and appropriate fittings/adapters for the cylinders; length varies by setup.
Plates and angles welded into high-stress joints for strength.