Just got my first tractor, a Kubota L3400. I really would like to get a root take type grapple. Is the 3400 big enough to be effective? And is adding the plumbing for hydraulics doable by a rookie? Any and all suggestions and comments are welcome. Good day
Grapple grapple questions
- Thread starter Jklatham
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Ductape
Elite Member
An L3400 will do well with a light duty root rake style grapple. Grapples are one of the most popular additions to tractors here on TBN. Up near the top of the page there is a search function. Do a few searches using terms like "grapple", "Diverter",and "third function" for hours worth of reading. I'm not trying to be unhelpful, but there are hundreds of threads on the matter here........... and it will save alot of time(it can get very repetetive) if you do some reading on the subject first. Doing the plumbing to power your grapple is definitely someting a do-it-yourselfer can do at home. Take a look at the W.R. Long website, as well as Markham Welding for info and prices on grapples light enough to be effective on your Kubota. Once you read up on installs others have done here, there are lots of folks who are glad to help with any specific questions you might have on your install.
Thanks for the reply. That's just what my wife wants to hear...MORE reading about tractors. I, however, am really excited about being able to do it myself. I've got over 150 trees down from house construction. Looking forward to using the grapple!
I might have some useful input about the grapple, as I have a Kubota L3400 with a grapple on the front. 
I have a W.R. Long Root Rake Grapple and I love it.
RBG
I did not put the third function valve on myself, the dealer did that. I bought the tractor and it came with it.
In my opinion, the grapple has been the best thing I have purchased for cleaning up trees around my place. I love it. the only thing that is more useful is the tractor itself. I pick up whole trees and throw them around. Of course, I am not talking about giant oak trees. Honestly I haven't tried to pick up a large tree yet, so I don't know what the capabilities are yet. I do know this, you better watch the weight and how high the loader is. I have almost tipped over several times while moving trees around because the change the center of gravity a bunch. Keep the heavy side uphill if you are moving across slopes and be prepared to lower the grapple to the ground if things get scary.
hope that helps!
Paul
I have a W.R. Long Root Rake Grapple and I love it.
RBG
I did not put the third function valve on myself, the dealer did that. I bought the tractor and it came with it.
In my opinion, the grapple has been the best thing I have purchased for cleaning up trees around my place. I love it. the only thing that is more useful is the tractor itself. I pick up whole trees and throw them around. Of course, I am not talking about giant oak trees. Honestly I haven't tried to pick up a large tree yet, so I don't know what the capabilities are yet. I do know this, you better watch the weight and how high the loader is. I have almost tipped over several times while moving trees around because the change the center of gravity a bunch. Keep the heavy side uphill if you are moving across slopes and be prepared to lower the grapple to the ground if things get scary.
hope that helps!
Paul
pitt_md
Veteran Member
I also recomend LOTS of rear weight. Even with a big weight on the back take it slow and keep the load as low as you can.
I just ordered a 48" light duty grapple rake from Markham Welding, they are offering 1/2 price shipping right now, under $1000 shipped to Maine.
