4-in-1 mods?

[Foggy]

Hello all,

I'm a newbie that's been lurking for a few weeks trying to absorb as much collective wisdom as I can - these forums are a fantastic resource for someone like me - thanks to all.

I'm in the process of finalising the specs for a small tractor in the 25-30 hp range. I'm looking for a workhorse that will help with general maintenance of my 5.5 acre property, so I've been keenly reading as much as I can about "add-ons" like toothbars, forks, grapples, hooks, etc, etc.

Like many newbies I'm tossing up the trade-offs between a FEL with a normal bucket vs a 4-in-1 (dearer and more functional).

My main questions relate to 4-in-1 mods:
<ul type="square">[*]Can most of the common FEL mods (toothbar, forks, grapple, hooks) be implemented on a 4-in-1?
[*]If you've done any, do you have pictures?
[*]Are there any "gotchas" I should be aware of?
[*]Does the 4-in-1 offer any interesting possibilities for other innovations (most mods I see seem to be on normal buckets)?
[/list]
Supplementary question... ag vs turf tires. My property is all turf (away from the house I keep it less manicured, but it's still turf). If I go with turf tires I'll minimise problems with gouging, but will I give up too much in traction? For example, if I need to pull stumps or fence posts, am I likely to regret getting turf tires?

Thanks again for letting me join this excellent community.

Cheers, Foggy

 

[EddieWalker]

If you can afford it, the 4 in 1 bucket is the ultimate attachment for a tractor. It will do everything a regular bucket will do, but so much more. Just haveing the ability to pick up stuff with it is worth it's weight in gold. Not having to take off your bucket and put on a grapple is also a huge time and energy savings. Changing any implement is an effort, so when you avoid having to do so, it's very nice!!!

Eddie

 

[MarkV]

Foggy, welcome to the forum. Most of what you could add to a normal bucket you would be able to add to a 4in1 bucket. For sure hooks and a tooth bar could be easily added and recommended. Clamp on forks might be an issue that I would check with the manufacture about. A more efficient system would be to have the loader and bucket equipped with a skid steer type quick attach system where you could drop the bucket and attach forks. That will also keep the load closer to the loader arms allowing you to lift heavier loads. I would think that adding a grapple to the bucket would be some what redundant given the 4in1 buckets ability to clamp on to an item.

As you shop there are a couple of things to keep in mind about 4in1 buckets. They will normally weigh more than the stock bucket which will reduce your lift capacity. Your needs will determined if the versatility of the 4in1 out weighs the loss in lifting ability. You will also have to have supplemental hydraulics run to the bucket to operate it. You can take a look here www.wrlonginc.com for examples of buckets and the hydraulic kits.

I’ve never run turf tires so I can’t be much help with that question. If the tractor is going to be your main mowing machine I would go turf. If not I haven’t done much turf damage with R4 industrial tires and they would offer better traction for the big jobs.

MarkV

 

[Bill_in_MI]

I think you will find that with a compact tractor any stump or post pulling will more likely be using the FEL to lift while pushng or pulling. In which case traction should not be an issue if the soil is reasonably firm/stable. I have used both Ag and Turf tires and prefer the turf tires for all uses. I also have the W.R. Long 4 in 1. I agree with the other posters on the versatility. I don't think I could not have one now. The weight issue mentioned is a consideration. Personally I do not miss the loss in lift capacity and I do move a lot of dirt, stone, etc. You will find the ride a little bumpy if you do not have a rear implement mounted for balance. And, in my opinion filled rear tires are a must. Welcome and hope this helps.

 

[Foggy]

Thanks all