Grapple ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple?

   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple? #1  

BGigHarbor

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Tractor
.l5460, bcs 725, 852
I really like the look of the ETA root wicked root grapples for my soon to have l5460 with la1055 loader.

But since I will be handling logs and such as well as brush, it struck me that a single clamp would be nice in a width wider than the 50 incher they sell now (and a slightly beefier grapple for larger CUTs).

Anyone have thoughts on a grapple say 60 inch wide but with a single clamp? Would it be a problem grabbing from brush piles due to the single clamp?

Sorry if this is discussed in another thread.
 
   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple? #2  
I really like the look of the ETA root wicked root grapples for my soon to have l5460 with la1055 loader.

But since I will be handling logs and such as well as brush, it struck me that a single clamp would be nice in a width wider than the 50 incher they sell now (and a slightly beefier grapple for larger CUTs).

Anyone have thoughts on a grapple say 60 inch wide but with a single clamp? Would it be a problem grabbing from brush piles due to the single clamp?

Sorry if this is discussed in another thread.

I believe the thinking is that on the wider grapples is that 2 lids are better because it allows for an object that is not an uniform size to be grasped fully. As an example a tree trunk or stump you would pickup may be narrow on one end and quite wide on the other, The two lids would allow or full clamping on both ends of this object. My Grapple is of course a single lid, but it is narrower.

James K0UA
 
   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple?
  • Thread Starter
#3  
I believe the thinking is that on the wider grapples is that 2 lids are better because it allows for an object that is not an uniform size to be grasped fully. As an example a tree trunk or stump you would pickup may be narrow on one end and quite wide on the other, The two lids would allow or full clamping on both ends of this object. My Grapple is of course a single lid, but it is narrower.

James K0UA

I understand that thinking for general brush use, but am wondering about a slightly bigger and stouter version of the current single clamp?

Seems it might have it's place as well. Don't have a grapple yet, so just thinking aloud.
 
   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple? #4  
Ted has been working on the ETA version of a rake style grapple like the Bradco. This may be something to consider if you want wider with a single lid.
I'll have to get an update on how that's coming along.

br-109984-root-rake-7S (1).jpg
 
   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple?
  • Thread Starter
#5  
Yes, would be interested in knowing eta of the ETA version.
 
   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple? #6  
Keep in mind:

Tractors are designed to PULL. Most of the time you want ground contact implements on the Three Point Hitch, which transfers weight to the rear wheels through the Lower Links and to the front wheels though the Top Link.

You will be PUSHING the grapple/root rake. PUSHING in not what a tractor is engineered to do. A grapple unloads weight on rear tires so traction is reduced. Every pound you add to a single clamp, which will not grip as securely as a double clamp, reduces the payload you can carry in the grapple and reduces rear wheel traction. Neither are the FEL lift arms designed to PUSH, arms are designed to LIFT but only to limit set by lift valve. You can push some with the lift arms but if you force the action you are looking at VERY EXPENSIVE repair, maybe $5000?

The clamp is just a clamp. You want the weight in the ground contact portion of the grapple where the draft forces act and grapple stress is max. Selecting grapple weight is a close call. You want the grapple sturdy enough, but you also want max grapple payload. Your incipient L5460 will operate a fairly light grapple fine. GREAT FUN.

Keep a counter-balance on the three point hitch when grappling, to relieve pressure on the front axle. Filled tires will not relieve front axle pressure, you need a counter-balance behind the rear axle.

Heavier grapples are engineered for wheeled or tracked Skid Steers, prime movers designed to PUSH. I have never seen a Tree Service or Land Clearing Service in Florida using a tractor mounted grapple; it is always a two lid grapple mounted before a tracked skid steer.

Bradcos are heavy. You probaly want to look at W.R. Long. ETA may surprise with SEVERE DUTY, WICKED DUTY, ANGRY DUTY and EXTREME DUTY forest grapple models for all.

I twit ETA for fun. I am an ETA repeat customer.

LINK:

W.R. Long Grapples

Photo: Rollover Box Blade grappling wild grape vine roots.
 

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   / ETA root grapple, how about wider than 50 but single grapple? #7  
Yes, would be interested in knowing eta of the ETA version.

Looks like the first one should be complete in 2 weeks or less unless something comes up. Ted's been in boxblade mode, but he's gonna get back in grapple mode soon.:D
 
 
 
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