Loader New Grapple Build! Let me know what you think

[Snowback]

Well, Almost done!
Got my grapple dry fit for extra assurance. Now it's off to paint and then patiently ( )waiting for hydraulics and 3rd function kit.

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Also got my Quick Attach on and my two most used implements set up for it, my box blade and my rotary cutter; I still need to set up my landscape rake, trencher, fertilize spreader and my 55 year old disc.

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Very impressive!

Say - what type of quick hitch is that and how far back do the rear hooks extend beyond the tip of three point arms? (From back of arm to back of hook on hitch?) I'm limited for space in my current shed and that might push me just beyond available length. Thanks.

 

[aarolar]

I've got $122 dollars in it so far.

You're in a very unusual situation I'm glad it's working out for you.

 

[slharman1]

Very impressive!

Say - what type of quick hitch is that and how far back do the rear hooks extend beyond the tip of three point arms? (From back of arm to back of hook on hitch?) I'm limited for space in my current shed and that might push me just beyond available length. Thanks.

Snowback,
I measured it when I got it install, it added just under 4" center to center of three point holes to QA center of hooks.
I will measure today when I get off work to see how much total real estate it adds from the original end of three point to the farthest point on QA and let you know.
Might be time for a new machinery shed!

 

[IslandTractor]

I've got $122 dollars in it so far.

Plus a least $1500 of talent that most of us don't have.

 

[slharman1]

Plus a least $1500 of talent that most of us don't have.

Well Thanks IslandTractor, but my belief is that one man can do anything another can - just takes some willingness and of course a lot of effort.
I learned a lot during this build so far and already have some things I would do different but all in all I am thrilled so far! :thumbsup:

 

[slharman1]

Very impressive!

Say - what type of quick hitch is that and how far back do the rear hooks extend beyond the tip of three point arms? (From back of arm to back of hook on hitch?) I'm limited for space in my current shed and that might push me just beyond available length. Thanks.

Snowback,

I measured it and from the center of the pin hole on the 3ph it is 6 1/2" overall to the back far edge of the hitch.
I got the hitch by the way at Harbor Freight - if you want one they have two more at the Jersey Village location.
The manager told me they are discontinuing them so if you want one of theirs you might want to jump on it.
$86 and some change with the 20% coupon which i got on there site with my phone right in the check-out line.
The only thing I see different from the others I have looked at is the tabs that hold the implement in the lower hooks is a bit thinner but looks substantial enough at 3/8" thick, at least for our tractors.

Hope it fits the shed because I really like the idea of not getting off the tractor to hook up - at least not until I have to hook up the PTO on something.

 

[slharman1]

Well, i am going nuts waiting for my parts so i added ballast to the rear tires (just water here on the gulf coast (that is what Tyler at j5 said they would put in if I had them do it.)
Took a whole hour to do both tires. At 41.5 gallons per tire according to counterweightblue.com and 8.355 lbs/gal I figure I've added about 693 lbs total to my weight.

Now I am just waiting for my 3rd function kit and cylinder - supposed to be delivered by Thursday close of business.
Then more waiting while i measure and order hoses. (be patient Steve)
Getting close.
Grapple is being painted tomorrow.
I'll post some pics of it once it's done.

 

[IslandTractor]

Then more waiting while i measure and order hoses. (be patient Steve)
.

Custom hoses from a local hydraulic shop are convenient but pretty expensive. You'd likely spend more on custom hoses than on what you've invested in the grapple to date. Surplus supply sells them with SAE end fittings in various lengths up to 18 feet or so. It might be useful to test out locations and routing for various hose connections so you can take advantage of pre-made hoses.

 

[slharman1]

Custom hoses from a local hydraulic shop are convenient but pretty expensive. You'd likely spend more on custom hoses than on what you've invested in the grapple to date. Surplus supply sells them with SAE end fittings in various lengths up to 18 feet or so. It might be useful to test out locations and routing for various hose connections so you can take advantage of pre-made hoses.

I planned on Surplus Center online, but I did a search for Surplus Supply since you mentioned it and found out they are in Conroe Tx, about 40 minutes from the house.
I'll give them a call tomorrow and see what they have.
Thanks!

 

[IslandTractor]

I planned on Surplus Center online, but I did a search for Surplus Supply since you mentioned it and found out they are in Conroe Tx, about 40 minutes from the house.
I'll give them a call tomorrow and see what they have.
Thanks!

I might actually have been thinking of Surplus Center so I don't know if Surplus Supply will have the same offerings. Just about any premade hydraulic hose will be cheaper than a local shop however.