Grapple Grapple and 3rd Function control for Kioti DK40se

[southerniltractor]

Good morning folks,

I'm looking at grapples from Everything Attachments and other sources for my Kioti DK40se. I'd like to hear your thoughts on various grapples for my tractor. In addition, I'm trying to determine if I should pay the additional $775.00 to get the third function added, or just use hoses and quick attachments from my rear remotes. I've never used a grapple, but I've got to figure out a way to move brush and logs in a more efficient and effective manner. My body just can't pay the bills anymore and I need to mechanize my work here.

Thanks,
Mike

[EverythingAttachments]

You'll get many opinions about the 3rd function...DIY vs Kit and grapples, but my recommendation on a grapple is.........
Wicked Grapple All The Way!!!!!! Your tractor will thank you.

[kiotiken]

I don't have a grapple and I've never used one, but if I was buying one, I'd have a 3rd function kit added. If you'll be doing hrs of grapple work, having control on your FEL joystick will be worth every dime when compared to playing around with the remotes. I find the controls for the remotes un-ergonomic and a PITA to use, Kioti did a much better job on the CK series.

[GManBart]

I'm trying to make the same decision right now. I'm definitely getting ETA's Wicked Grapple (still waffling on size a little bit)...that's already decided. I'm pretty handy, and have a neighbor who can fix/work on just about anything, so I'm sure between the two of us, we could add a 3rd function kit, but I'm not sure it makes the most financial sense for me at this point. I've been thinking of initially going with a rear remote, and if I use the grapple a lot, eventually adding the 3rd function kit since the cost of using the rear remotes is pretty low. Decisions, decisions....

[murphy1244]

I went with MIE Grapple and hose kit to use my second remote.
Hound Dog Brush / Debris Grapples

[k0ua]

I'm trying to make the same decision right now. I'm definitely getting ETA's Wicked Grapple (still waffling on size a little bit)...that's already decided. I'm pretty handy, and have a neighbor who can fix/work on just about anything, so I'm sure between the two of us, we could add a 3rd function kit, but I'm not sure it makes the most financial sense for me at this point. I've been thinking of initially going with a rear remote, and if I use the grapple a lot, eventually adding the 3rd function kit since the cost of using the rear remotes is pretty low. Decisions, decisions....

My thoughts on this is why not start with the rear remotes, run from the rear remotes with a 6 foot hoses up to the area where the loader starts, use couplers to continue on with hoses out to the torque tube of the loader, these hoses would be tie wrapped to the existing loader hoses, so now you can still remove your loader easily. AND also if you decide to install a third function valve it would go in the area of the couplers and you could likely re-use the longer loader mounted hoses for the hookup to the electric/hydraulic valve. So you are out 2 six foot hoses from the remotes to the loader post if you decide to go with the 3rd function idea.. Not a lot a money. And should you get along fine with using the rear hookup and manual control valve already on your tractor.. Well you are done and a happy camper.. Thats my 2 centavos.

James K0UA

[GManBart]

My thoughts on this is why not start with the rear remotes, run from the rear remotes with a 6 foot hoses up to the area where the loader starts, use couplers to continue on with hoses out to the torque tube of the loader, these hoses would be tie wrapped to the existing loader hoses, so now you can still remove your loader easily. AND also if you decide to install a third function valve it would go in the area of the couplers and you could likely re-use the longer loader mounted hoses for the hookup to the electric/hydraulic valve. So you are out 2 six foot hoses from the remotes to the loader post if you decide to go with the 3rd function idea.. Not a lot a money. And should you get along fine with using the rear hookup and manual control valve already on your tractor.. Well you are done and a happy camper.. Thats my 2 centavos.

James K0UA

That's a good plan...thanks!

[crazyangel]

If you have a rear remote that is unutilized then that can be a cost effective way to start, but might not make sense if you have to unplug something else. Also, Having the controls right on my loader lever was important to me. So I put the third function kit on my tractor. The Wicked Grapple is a great design. A nice choice for sure!

[moriboy]

I just bought a grapple and installed the 3rd function option on my tractor. I can say that operating the loader, while steering, and then being able to also control the grapple via remotes would be tough....

[grsthegreat]

I didnt want to spend the extra $880 for the 3rd myself, so added a set of hoses to the rear non detente set of ports i already had. I also installed a quick disconnect at the same location as the tractors QD's so i can split the hoses when removing the loader. The hoses end in a nice bracket up front.

so far no issues. I did make a short extension bracket for the rear remote to raise it up to an easier to use position when using the plow. very easy to reach and use.

i only spent $250 on this setup. at the time i had already unloaded too much available cash and had to stop somewheres.

Nowdays i may hsave opted for the 3rd function valve..... but who knows. I dont feel im missing much.