Moving cut tree branches & logs

[jyoutz]

Buy an actual logging choker cable. Attach to your drawbar (not 3ph), drive forward and skid the log. Your MX will handle it. Choker cables are so nice to work with because they self tighten (choke) the log as you start skidding, then easily release. The bell of the choker easily slips under the log to attach.

1/2" MEDIUM DUTY Cat Choker w/ Eye

1/2" MEDIUM DUTY Cat Choker w/ Eye | Buy Logging Supplies Online | Lifting.com

lifting.com

 

[Aggie66]

Thanks for all the comments. Good ideas. I was concerned that using the FEL would possibly damage something. I was concerned about using the drawbar because years ago (novice tractor operator) I nearly tipped a tractor back while trying to pull out a stuck drilling rig. Thanks again.

 

[thclimer]

Take some pictures of before and after, we always like to see how others are using their tractors to make their lives easier.

 

[D&D]

Buy an actual logging choker cable. Attach to your drawbar (not 3ph), drive forward and skid the log. Your MX will handle it. Choker cables are so nice to work with because they self tighten (choke) the log as you start skidding, then easily release. The bell of the choker easily slips under the log to attach.

1/2" MEDIUM DUTY Cat Choker w/ Eye

1/2" MEDIUM DUTY Cat Choker w/ Eye | Buy Logging Supplies Online | Lifting.com

lifting.com

I dont like using cable. I just added a choker hook to my chain

3/8" Chain Choker Hook

CHAIN CHOKER HOOK 3/8" W/ BOLT

www.riggingwarehouse.com

 

[ArlyA]

I used choker chains with utv's for years. Liked them much and carry one in the 6x6 we have today. Not sure of its weight but might be 5/16 or 3/8 chain. Lighter than most used with tractors or trucks.

 

[bsekf]

We got a set of log tongs and it works fine. Hang in on the middle hook on the bucket and the only trick is getting it centered on the log. Helper can guide the log if it is not perfectly centered. Only hook it on the middle of the bucket! Or you can use pallet forks to carry the log, just don't raise it and roll the log back onto the tractor. Be careful, especially if you have a light weight compact tractor. I hate to drag them and get them covered in mud, dulls the chainsaw.

 

[jyoutz]

I dont like using cable. I just added a choker hook to my chain

3/8" Chain Choker Hook

CHAIN CHOKER HOOK 3/8" W/ BOLT

www.riggingwarehouse.com

Cable is what loggers use.

 

[Tinhack]

Looks like everyone covered the meat of the subject but I'll throw in another suggestion. Just another wood clearing tip: Watch your valve stems!

 

[JeepHead]

I pull some very large trees using the draw bar on my L2502. You will be just fine with your MX, go slow and watch for the end of the log catching on something.

 

[5030]

I have a large oak tree that the wind blew down along our creek. It’s probably 50 ft or so tall and trunk diameter of near 36 inches. I plan on piecing it out with a chain saw and using my MX5400 to drag the cut pieces out. My question is:due to working along the creek bank I’ll have to use chains to drag the cut pieces out. I don’t have front weights so I don’t feel comfortable using the drawbar but I’m not sure how much lifting/pulling I should do with the hooks on my FEL bucket. Anyone who does a bit of “logging” comments appreciated. Thanks

Your drawbar 'pulls' from lower than the centerline of the rear axle so any force exerted on the drawbar equates to a 'downward' force on the front axle of the tractor. Why drawbars are located where they are in relationship to the rear axle.

People that buy a crossbar to attach to the 3 point lower arm balls are pulling ABOVE the centerline of the rear axle and extreme pulls will cause the front axle to come up.

I always pull from the drawbar, always.