Boom pole aka Crane: variations

I set out to build myself a boom pole for general lifting purposes, and asked around for input to the design. My dilemma was to figure out the geometry such that the weight will move toward the tractor as it lifts. This implies one of two things: either a rigid setup using a top link, or, a design incorporating some kind of pivoting action.  Following are pictures sent in by a few generous people - thanks to all of you for doing so! Once I get my own unit constructed I will add a picture of it here.

Here is the usual type found at farm stores, and they're not too expensive. Something like this would be simple enough to make, and you might wonder why I would even bother to build one when you can get one for a hundred bucks or so.  Three reasons: a) I have some material around to build one. 2) The far end is still quite far from the tractor in the raised position. I am after both height and having the weight close to the rear of the tractor. c) I just want to. Here is the original Ferguson type. This one features a very clever geometry that does bring the weight in closer to the tractor as it rises. The lift arms from the tractor do not directly lift the crane: the lowest point that you can see is a pivot point, and as the tractor's lift arms rise, they get closer to the rear supports for the crane. Hard to describe, and so, I think, hard to fabricate. Probably also heavy by the looks of it. .

Here's an old advertising shot of the Ferguson model at work. You can see how the tractor's lift arms are higher and closer in to the supports for the boom. Don't forget your fedora when you go pulling poles.

Not sure of the origins of this one. It does get the load in closer to the tractor, and it lifts pretty high too. No top link is used; a pivot point is incorporated instead. Interesting that it connects to the existing drawbar. I don't have a way to bend a big tube like that, but I think this is getting closer to what I am after.

This one appears as though it would not be too hard to fabricate at home. I still need to determine how well it might swing the load toward the tractor. (Click on the image for a larger view.)

Here is a home made unit including all the dimensions - still mulling this one over too.

After considering all the above options I noticed this crane on sale, and mounted it to my carryall platform as shown. It extends out (which reduces its capacity), and pivots. I can hook up a load, lift it with the hydraulic jack, swing the load over the platform, and lower it. I put it over one of the lift arm pins, as it just seems like it would be more stable.