Best method for a tractor to move/haul/process downed logs?

[John_Mc]

The forestry package cab on skid steers typically includes lexan windows which will take a beating from my experience.

Lexan will take a whale of a beating and not break. If you use it, make sure you get the stuff that is treated for UV resistance. It will still yellow with age, but not nearly as quickly. Also Lexan WILL scratch, and I've heard the scratches cannot be repaired.

 

[roadhunter]

Here is what do for homemade chokers. A simple half link of chain works great to make the opening the right size where the chain fits through. I also weld the pins on both hooks.



I carry 6 of them on my little skidder along with a 20 ft chain. Then I simply attach the individual chokers along the chain as I drive through the woods and get my logs. I also have extra weld on chain hooks on my boom so I can winch a log in (or back right up to it) and attach its' choker right to the boom which is what I do on bigger stuff. .

 

[plowhog]

Well, how about an update from the OP?

I have not bought a tractor. I do have my Massey 1710 but that's for another property. The jury is still out. It might become true that neither the telehandler or tractor advocates were giving me the best advice. Out of left field-- the local govt has a program with cost share to masticate land like this. Hmmm. I DO need to look into that!

I'm still kicking around what to do. And thinking of how hot it will be out in the bare pasture, at 95 degrees F I in the sun, mowing. So a shiny new cab model tractor is appealing.

 

[motownbrowne]

Here is what do for homemade chokers. A simple half link of chain works great to make the opening the right size where the chain fits through. I also weld the pins on both hooks.
View attachment 485576
View attachment 485577

I carry 6 of them on my little skidder along with a 20 ft chain. Then I simply attach the individual chokers along the chain as I drive through the woods and get my logs. I also have extra weld on chain hooks on my boom so I can winch a log in (or back right up to it) and attach its' choker right to the boom which is what I do on bigger stuff. .

Oh man, best idea I've seen all day. Thank you for posting that!!!!

I'd really like to find some rings to go in the end of chokers. About 4" in diameter, big enough to fit the chain through, strong like a hook, but won't come off. Haven't found any yet, though.

 

[roadhunter]

Oh man, best idea I've seen all day. Thank you for posting that!!!!

I'd really like to find some rings to go in the end of chokers. About 4" in diameter, big enough to fit the chain through, strong like a hook, but won't come off. Haven't found any yet, though.

This might work for what you are wanting to do.
Forged Steel Round Ring. 3-15/16" Outside Diameter, 1.43 lbs

 

[motownbrowne]

This might work for what you are wanting to do.
Forged Steel Round Ring. 3-15/16" Outside Diameter, 1.43 lbs

Thanks for the link. Yeah, that's exactly what I'm thinking. I'd need to find it's working load limit, though. Might be worth a call.