How to remove power pole

mred2 · Aug 18, 2020

If you think there are underground power lines, call before you dig. The utility company here will locate all underground at no charge.

Diggin It · Aug 18, 2020

Turns out, I'm going to have this exact situation. I'll need to move an old telephone pole about 30' to get it and what's on it out from under a very large oak tree. My plan is to dig a trench beside it and lay it over. I hope to have a neighbor drill the new hole and help me stand it back up.

But I need to figure out how to lay it down safely.

I might be able to have the same neighbor use his JD 4230 behind it, chain it to his FEL and push it over. I don't think he can pull it straight up without the trench, but I'm not sure.

grsthegreat · Aug 18, 2020

Diggin It said:
Turns out, I'm going to have this exact situation. I'll need to move an old telephone pole about 30' to get it and what's on it out from under a very large oak tree. My plan is to dig a trench beside it and lay it over. I hope to have a neighbor drill the new hole and help me stand it back up.

But I need to figure out how to lay it down safely.

I might be able to have the same neighbor use his JD 4230 behind it, chain it to his FEL and push it over. I don't think he can pull it straight up without the trench, but I'm not sure.

whats on the pole?

Diggin It · Aug 18, 2020

Telephone line and a camera, both of which I can easily remove and reinstall, but could be damaged if this large branch over it broke off and fell..

grsthegreat · Aug 18, 2020

Ok, i was wondering if it had power cables attached. I have never moved one with a tractor as i previously stated. Personally i would not want to as im afraid to damage my expensive cab tractor. But as shown here it can be done. Im just too chicken. :chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken::chicken:

Mat4644 · Aug 18, 2020

We've removed several using method in post #2. Dig out enough on one side for the tractor to push over with FEL. If it's solid it won't break. Always afraid a pole this long could upset a tractor if it's chained to it. If solid the weight will surprise you.

shooterdon · Aug 18, 2020

Richard, I am impressed!!! I am too poor an operator and too chicken to even attempt what you did.

To the OP...it is a pole and not worth risking having an accident to save it IMHO. I would saw it off first.

ovrszd · Aug 18, 2020

oosik said:
Thanks for your answer - ovrszd. Leaning into a tree - man, THAT'S using the 'ol noggin. That one picture certainly shows the hazards that you could encounter using a tractor. The tractor in the pic - doesn't seem to be one listed in your profile. What size Kubota is it??

That was my previous L4400. I think I could have laid the pole on the ground with the M9540. Lot more clearance under the front axle.

ovrszd · Aug 18, 2020

shooterdon said:
Richard, I am impressed!!! I am too poor an operator and too chicken to even attempt what you did.

To the OP...it is a pole and not worth risking having an accident to save it IMHO. I would saw it off first.

Thanks Don.

It never felt awkward or like it was too much for the tractor. I had to "wiggle" it with the 3pt to get it started upward. My M9540 would handle one easily.