Bucket Thumb install finished

[picker77]

Finally got around to finishing up the install of a 28" Greens Machine Shop bucket thumb on my JD 3032E. Works great, especially in combo with the tooth bar. This will be a huge help in cleaning up brush this winter. Total weight of the thumb and it's base mount was 108 lb, plus of course the weight of the 3x4x1/4 tubing I used to mount it on, and a couple of 5x12x3/8 backing plates hidden up under the lip of the bucket. Didn't want to weld on the bucket, it's mounted with 5/8" and 3/4" Grade 8 hardware. I noticed no flex at all when grabbing stuff, although there must be a little even if I can't see it. I think this setup will hold up fine if I don't abuse it.

I would like to improve the mounting of the QC's on the torque tube, they are currently tie-wrapped. I plan to fabricate a small rigid mounting plate for bulkhead fittings when I have time this winter. I used 14' 3/8 hoses with a 90 degree fitting at the rear SCV plug-ins. As currently set up I have to unplug the side link cylinder from one of the remotes to plug in the thumb, so one of these days I want to look into a 3rd SCV to mount on the joystick. However, the piggy bank wouldn't stand for that yet. I didn't use the .060" restrictors provided, didn't need them--operational speed was perfect just like it is.

Can't say enough good about Green's Machine Shop, David's workmanship is first rate, shipping was very fast, and his prices are reasonable.

 

[magicheater]

Looks like you did a nice clean job! If you don't mind me asking, what did the grapple, tooth bar and the associated costs run you?

 

[ctgoldwing]

Excellent looking install! Good luck with it

 

[picker77]

Looks like you did a nice clean job! If you don't mind me asking, what did the grapple, tooth bar and the associated costs run you?

No, I don't mind, it's public information.

Grapple: $350 plus shipping. Hoses, fittings, steel, and small hardware another $200.
Greens Machine

Toothbar (Iowa Farm Equipment): $350 with free shipping.
Iowa Farm Equipment -- Bucket Toothbars & Cutting Edges

 

[magicheater]

Hey thanx, was that a 300x or a 200x loader?

 

[picker77]

Hey thanx, was that a 300x or a 200x loader?

It's a 305.

 

[magicheater]

It's a 305.

Thank you, I see it is comparable to an LA 504 Kubota Loader. Superior in some areas and lacking in others. What do think the weight of your add-on's are to your bucket? Your bucket must weigh at least 150# -180#.

 

[picker77]

Total weight of the thumb and it's base mount was 108 lb, plus of course the weight of the 3x4x1/4 tubing I used to mount it on, and a couple of 5x12x3/8 backing plates hidden up under the lip of the bucket.

Total weight added to the bucket was around 140 pounds. I'd say the Kubota LA463 is a closer comparison.

 

[MF1652]

I've been looking for a grapple to pick up logs and brush but can still be removed from the bucket easily when it's not needed. It looks like that grapple can be removed by pulling three pins and disconnecting the hoses. How does it do with picking up logs? I'm curious, what was the reason for mounting the grapple on top of the 3x5 square tubing?

 

[nybirdman]

I also have and Green's Machine thumb and a Markham tooth-bar.Great tool.
Great for brush and logs.Mine is also bolt on,for easy removal.