Grapple Another Grapple Thread

[N80]

I know there are lots of grapple threads but I just need a few basic pointers. I'm having about 110 acres thinned for the first time. I'm expecting them to make a huge mess. With the proceeds (and possible tax write-off) I'm thinking about getting a grapple for clean up. I have spent a few minutes on the Anbo site but otherwise know nothing about grapples.

I have a Kubota L4400 4wd with the Kubota LA 703 loader on it. I have 1 set of rear remotes. The bucket on the LA 703 attached directly to the loader arms and cylinders with large pins. Not sure how to remove it but it can't be that hard.

Questions:

What are the more popular brands?

Most of them seem to use skid steer attachments. Will I be able to find one that attaches just like my bucket does?

For the hydraulics do I just run hoses to the rear of the tractor for the rear remotes? Sounds messy (and maybe expensive too) and it worries me that long hoses could snag on stuff. I do lot of work in the woods.

The lever for the rear remotes is on the left and slightly behind me. Is that going to be impossible to use for a grapple or just a pain in the butt?

Finally, what type of budget should I be looking at for a 6' grapple. Does not have to be real heavy duty. Tractor is 45hp but small and light.

Thanks for any help and my apologies for repeating common questions.

 

[k0ua]

I might be able to help a little. With the pin on bucket, you are down a notch at the start.. first step , get converted to SSQA.. you can buy the SSQA adaptor from your Kubota dealer, and either buy a new bucket or convert your existing bucket.. I show how to convert existing bucket here, but you need to weld.

I used the rear remote, BUT mine was very conviently place next to the joystick control and is very easy to operate, but it does not sound like yours is. So I am thinking you will need a diverter valve or a 3rd function. I would use the diverter valve. Brian at fitrite hydraulics can fix you up on that, or you can shop it out yourself.

As for type and model of grapple, well, there are a thousand of them and everyone likes a different one. I have the EA single lid wicked grapple, and it does all I need. You may or may not need a 6 foot grapple.. Lots of opinions on that, My 50 inch is as wide as I would ever want, but your usage and desires may be different, and you will get as many different answers as people you ask.

I hope this helped a bit, and would be happy to answer any specific questions you have as I have been down this road, and pondered many of the same questions.

 

[N80]

Thanks James. So there is no chance that I'll be able to find a grapple that mounts the same way my current bucket does? I realize this would not be a "quick detach and would probably take 20 minutes to change over but I'll only be using the grapple a few times a year at most.

Kubota makes a quick detach mount for the LA703A loader but not the plain LA703 like mine. To gett hem to work on the plain 703 requires some grinding and cutting on the loader arm ends and the bucket.

I don't weld and I'm not up for buying a new bucket, skid steer mounts and paying for installation so if I can't find a grapple that will mount to my loader arms then it might just be cheaper to me to rent a skid steer for a weekend to get this clean up done.

 

[Rocky Hoffler]

Yes you can find one that will fit but a few minute job turns into removing pins and realigning to either put grapple on bucket and that's on and off not a real pleasant task. I would recommend for the size tractor you have to also stay with 60 inch grapple . There are two basic types of grapple a bucket grapple which has a flat bottom and a root rake style which is usually rounded and choice of single or dual clamp. since you don't have SSQA think about gitting a grapple clamp for your bucket.

 

[kennyd]

George, I think Everything Attachments will make you a pin-on style grapple, or at least sell you a plain back one with no mounts that you could take to a local welding shop to have the proper mounts added-that should be cheaper than converting to SSQA. You can also just run long 1/4" hoses from your rear remote to operate it, anything larger is a waste of money and real estate IMHO.

PS: I hope your still enjoying your Bolt-On Hooks, you inspired me make them...I even tell the story on the About Us page on the website, thanks again!:thumbsup: :salute:

 

[N80]

I love my bolt on grab hooks. As a non-welder (I really am going to have to learn some day) I love bolt on stuff.

And thanks for the reply. It got me wondering about finding an old LA 703 bucket, which people discard when they go to a QD set up, and cutting the mounts off of it to be welded onto a grapple with blank mounting surface. Just an idea.

Anyway, what I'll more likely end up doing is just getting a bucket grapple. Nowhere near as useful but no welding and virtually no additional expense other than the hydraulic hoses.

 

[kennyd]

I love my bolt on grab hooks. As a non-welder (I really am going to have to learn some day) I love bolt on stuff.

Thanks!

Anyway, what I'll more likely end up doing is just getting a bucket grapple. Nowhere near as useful but no welding and virtually no additional expense other than the hydraulic hoses.

Here is a nice one: ATI Corporation - Grapple Kit Images

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Hoses are not that expensive as long as you get them from the right place.:thumbsup:

 

[Poopdeck Pappy]

Hoses are not that expensive as long as you get them from the right place.:thumbsup:

Yes!! I learned a hard lesson NOT to buy hydraulic hoses at NAPA.

 

[Redbug]

Hi there George!

I think James has some good advise. In the long run your tractor will be much more versatile.

I would go to your Kubota dealer, (Wilsons...Newberry?), and order/get the quick attach unit that goes on your tractor. It will attach on the pins that connects to the bucket. They usually have some laying in the back lot... you can just pick up right then and there. It's a common item. It's not hard to pin it on your tractor when you get it.

Now...Take a look at this. I would order one of Ted's Plates, then load your bucket in your pickup truck and drop it off at the welder or even at Wilsons, (they know what to do).
Construction Attachments Weld-On Skid Steer, Skidsteer Universal Skid Steer Quick Attach Plate

You can do all this in two trips...One to drop off your bucket at Wilson's, (with the plate you ordered from Ted), and pick up the QA unit from them. Second trip is to get your bucket with the welding done and take it home.

Then you go to the next step of getting a grapple, then a stump bucket, then a set of forks, then a...

By the way...I have a WR Long grapple, valve and setup. My grapple is 5 feet wide. It is the width of the front tires. That way you can clear stuff and not be running all over it with the front tires.