Forage King chopper box pix

[Fordfarmer]

My Grandpa bought this one new, around '77-'79. Almost became a parts box for my other one Tuesday. The grader had gone by and left a pile of gravel where he lifted the blade at the bridge. My cousin was hauling for me, and although he slowed and pulled to the left to avoid most of the piled gravel, it wasn't enough. Snapped both front spindles, dropping the bolster onto the road. That sent the box forward onto the tongue and against the 3-point arms. Tongue was pulled off the bearings at the bolster, but tie rods were still holding - had to torch them to pull the tractor ahead to unhook it. Spent most of Wednesday pitching the corn into pickups and then the blower. Got the box lifted and on another running gear before milking. Should have it back to work by noon today...I hope.