How to remove power pole

[mred2]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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.

 

[Mat4644]

Power pole weights