New member question

[731marty]

I've been lurking for some time and finally decided to join up. I recently bought a Kubota L3800 with a LA524 loader and I'm possibly in the market for a grapple for the loader. Would like some suggestions on brand, what to look for, what to avoid, weight considerations, etc, etc. Most grapples that I've found seem to be awful heavy for a small tractor/loader. This is my first experience with a loader and not sure about the practicality of a grapple on a small tractor/loader. does this combo work fairly well or not so much? Not looking to do any heavy lifting, just basic brush cleanup, etc. Thanks for any input!!!

 

[Thomas]

Welcome to TBN.

 

[wmonroe]

Welcome! I don't have a grapple so i'm no help but there are others here with experience that will be along to give you suggestions.

 

[Wnc3]

For brush clean up they are great. I'd say 10 times better than a plain bucket.
You will be able to pick up brush piles without leaving the seat. You may have to add a third section control valve if your tractor is not equipped.
Once you get used to it you can roll the bucket forward with grapple open,
Lower it on the pile, close the grapple, roll bucket back, and move the pile.
Some one else will let you know the best size and brand for your model...

 

[First one]

Glad to hear you joined in !
Your going to get a lot of people on here that can give really good advice on diff. grapples and prices . Same with anything , it all depends on what you want to do with it . Wildkat is a good brand to check out , I think you can pick one up pretty cheap there. I have a Titan that I got at skid steer express
they have a few to pick from. There are many more too ,all depends how much $ you want to spend , just research all you can before buying.:thumbsup: Good luck!

 

[moored4]

:welcome: to TBN! :thumbsup:

Happy :tractor: ing!

 

[731marty]

Thanks for the hospitality!! Looking forward to learning a lot from y'all. Looking forward to hearing some suggestions.

 

[scoutcub]

:welcome: to TBN!

If you search under "grapple" threads in this attachment section, you'll find all KINDS of useful info.
I recently purchased a versetech 66" grapple at a Ritchie Bros auction, got a great price on it. Probably very similar to the Wildkat's that so many folks here have. Mine is probably around 400-500 lbs, so only around 100-200 more than the bucket, if that.
Just finished installing the front aux valve, it wasn't too bad to install myself. Haven't used the setup yet, but will when the ground dries out, and can't wait.

Have fun shopping!