Front-End Loader Has anyone used the BrushGrubber that attaches to the FEL?

[DwightD123]

I am usually working by myself and so woud prefer the Brush Grubber that attaches to the FEL but I have concerns and wonder if anyone has used this. First it seems like it would be difficult to see in order to properly align the BG to hit the tree right. Secondly does it "set" well and re-set easy.
I am also considering the Quick Spade Combo and just popping these autumn olive trees that way. Anyway thoughts and experiences are appreciated.

 

[KU Gator]

I have not used the brush grubber that mounts on the bucket, but I do have the regular and heavy duty version that you pull with a chain. They are very well built. I bought the heavy duty version 1st and later bought the regular duty one as it is lighter and easier to pull apart to get it around the tree. My tractor is not heavy enough to need the heavy duty. They work well unless it is a very smooth barked tree that bends easily. Then they slide up it. It is harder when working by yourself as there is a lot of getting on and off the tractor using them. Sometimes I can pull in forward and have it mounted to the two chain hooks on my bucket and just raise the bucket.

I also have the quick spade. It is very heavy made. Weighs about 85#. The UPS driver will not be happy with you when they deliver it. Requires a chain wrapped around the bucket and a ratchet type binder to fix it to the bucket. I use it some for digging small trees but more for rock removal. A little hard to judge where it is once you curl the bucket forward. You can also use it to dig a hole for planting trees.

You may also want to consider the ratchet rake for brush removal. They are now sold thru Tractor Supply, although some of the stores don't know it yet. It is also a well made tool.

Ratchet Rake, LLC - Tractor attachment, Bucket attachment, Loader, Skid loader, Kubota, Skid steer, Landscape rake, Brush remover, York Rake, Harley Rake, Rock Rake, Tractor rake attachment, Construction attachment, New Holland, Bobcat, Fire safety,

 

[horse7]

I've used the chain pull extreme version, which generally works well on shallow rooted tree stubs up to the size the jaws will fit on... or on somewhat larger sized ones if the tree is cut narrow enough for the jaws. I usually leave the stub 3-5 feet tall to get enough leverage to pull the roots out, attaching the grubber near the top.

Deep tap root trees are another story, maybe 1/2 the jaw opening is the largest size I can manage. Sometimes the tree just won't come out depending on the roots and the ground surface, not enough traction and the tree is just in there too tight.

Works ok on bushes but the unit is heavy and a toothbar or a lighter grubber (or just a chain) would be easier to use depending on access. The extreme version is heavy, maybe 40lb, if you don't need it you probably should get the lighter one. The extreme has fewer and longer spikes in the jaws which is sometimes useful, the spikes have held up well in use without bending or being damaged.

The only real complaint I have is that the spring that closes the jaws comes off sometimes as you drag the tree out even a little ways-- I put a length of flouro orange tape through the spring so I can find it in the dirt. It is a PITA to use without the spring... so don't lose it.

It is a heap faster to use with two people, and easier if the other person has to do the grubber set up and chaining in the noon day sun and deerflies

 

[DwightD123]

Thanks guys. Sounds like the HD version instead of the Extreme. Still would like to find someone that uses the FEL one. See if they like it or not. Anyone...Bueller?...

 

[doddsjzi]

Brush Grubber I have (must be next to smallest--about $80) has lost a couple of springs, and it doesn't really work without spring. First time, I called factory and ordered spring and e-clips to hold spring in place (e-clips shown in instruction sheet). Got call back saying they no longer use e-clips to secure spring; ordered 2 springs@$4.00; POSTAGE $10. Installed new spring and safety-wired in place--worked for a while, but undoubtedly I pulled the spring directly over something heavy when using the Grubber and spring was gone. Found perfect replacement for less $ (2 for $3.79, plus 2 shorter springs in package) at Home Depot and installed, with 1/4" e-clips. Has worked well since. Next time (if there is a next time), I'll also put a short piece of old garden hose over the spring. Now I try to make sure that when I use the Grubber, the spring is up and not likely to hang on something on the ground. On small stuff about 2", I get a better bite digging a couple of inches below the surface, where the root is bigger.