What materials thickness should I use for the bucket and frame?
Documented on the Project Front Loader Pt 5: Assembling the frame build
Published April 27, 2026
Common practice is 3/16"–1/4" plate for the bucket shell and 1/4" or thicker steel for critical wear areas.
Full Answer
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.
Documented In This Build
Related Knowledge
What type of hydraulic cylinders and hoses are required?How are pivot points protected against wear?How much will this cost to build?What torque should I use on the blade bolt?What maintenance is required to keep the runtime optimal?What were the most critical problems found on the test drive?Can these issues be fixed cheaply or will it cost a lot?How do I know if the leak is from the oil pump or the tank?
Related Parts
MIG welding wire and shielding gas (consumables)
$40
Primer and paint
$40
Grease fittings (zerk fittings) and grease
$10
Fasteners (grade 8 bolts, nuts, washers)
$30
Steel square tubing (various sizes for frame and arms)
$120
Steel plate for bucket (3/16"–1/4" sheet)
$180
Hydraulic cylinder (front loader lift) - quantity 2
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Pivot pins and bronze/steel bushings
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Hydraulic hoses and fittings
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Gusset plates, angle iron and reinforcement brackets
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Measuring tools (tape, square, angle finder)
Angle grinder with cutting and grinding discs
Chop saw / metal cutoff saw
Clamps and angle clamps
Hammer and mallet
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