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San Diego

for the first time ever, will be renting a fork lift to move my pumpkin. Never done it, know absolutely nothing about it. I need to purchase the pumpkin straps this week. My question is this: what other parts or chains come with the forklift to lift it up and what other parts do I need to have myself if I use the straps? and please explain in 101 terms, I don't know anything! Thanks.

9/11/2012 2:09:55 PM

West [email protected]

If the pumpkin is not to big I would just tip it on to a pallet with blankets for cushion and then just use the forks, this will save on straps and a lifting ring. But if you want to lift it you might want to rent a big kabota cause it might offer better hook up points. Just some thoughts, good luck

9/11/2012 3:50:34 PM

Planet Orange

Jim, you will need a heavy chain I don't know chain gauges but the one we wrap around the bolt in the tripod has about maybe 3/8 or so thick steel. probably only a few feet would be needed in a forklift scenario. Then we use something called a clevis pin attached to the chain, that is what the lifting ring or straps is attached to. I would guess that the forklift rental place has this simple equipment and hope that they would throw in for free. Never hurts to ask. Good luck with your new PB! - Jim Gerhardt

9/11/2012 5:08:27 PM

Princeton Kentucky

Heres a good example of why I think it would be cool if someone had the time and resources to make a simple "How to load a Giant Pumpkin" video. Post it here with maybe two or three situations different growers with different funds may find theirselves in, sling, pallet, Tarp with handles. trailer or truck hauling. If some one knows of a video heck let me know too.. would like to see one just for diff approaches. I wish I could make one but don't have the resources or thee experience. Good luck Team Faith

9/11/2012 7:24:55 PM

Corryton, TN

Don't get that fork lift off of VERY solid driving surface. They are extremly heavy and will sink in soft ground. If your talking about a Bobcat, allow enough time for practice driving.

9/12/2012 6:17:02 AM

Novar, Ontario

Be careful, if the forklift is built for outdoors use it will have tires simular to a car, but heavier, if built for indoor use the tires will be solid, dont take solid tires anywhere off concrete or asphalt. The greatest concern is that forktrucks have little to no suspension and will bounce the load if not driven with extreme caution, ending your season. Good luck, Dave

9/12/2012 8:45:27 PM

San Diego

thanks for all the info guys! appreciated.

9/12/2012 9:12:51 PM