4n1 on a L3830 size tractor

[_RaT_]

Anyone using one? What is the manufactuer? How much does it weigh. Did it take away significantly form the load lift ability. I ask because my association is buying a used L3830 HST and they have opted for a grapple system to pick up brush. I have not used grapples, only 4N1's. They have asked for my input. I would prefer the 4N1 but maybe the grapples OK. Just looks weaker. Thanks, Mark

 

[kennyd]

If it is specifically for brush than a small grapple like the Markham LD-48 or the WR Long equivalent is the ticket.

Advantages are:
-lighter weight
-cheaper
-better visibility
-easier for a non-regular user to use

 

[SouthernConservative]

I have a L4310 - and a Shop Built Grapple - the 4n1 is too much for brush.

 

[_RaT_]

Gracias, that's the input I was looking for.

 

[goneandbrokeit]

I have a a 48 inch grapple on a L3830. Works fine, I would think a 4 in 1 would eat up too much payload.

 

[alchemysa]

I would have thought a tractor that size would have no trouble with the extra weight of the 4in1. I think its a 'problem' that is often exagerated. In fact I don't think I've ever read any support for that comment from anyone who actually owns a 4in1.

I have a small tractor and a heavy 4in1 but it will still lift anything I can fit in the bucket, although you might need a little extra weight at the back end for traction.

I'd suggest you make your decision based on other reasons. Like what you really want it to do.

 

[Fritzy]

Sorry for my ignorance, what is a 4n1?

 

[goneandbrokeit]

That is one on alchemysa avatar. Some times refered to as a clamshell.

 

[KennyV]

I would have thought a tractor that size would have no trouble with the extra weight of the 4in1. I think its a 'problem' that is often exagerated. In fact I don't think I've ever read any support for that comment from anyone who actually owns a 4in1.

You are right.
I have a heavy 4 n 1 skid steer bucket on my L4200. Never any problems.
When I bought the 4n1 I thought I wanted a grapple so I bought one of the big rock brush grapples...
After using my 4n1 I have NEVER used the grapple. It's still new, I can not imagine anything I would ever do that the 4N1 would not handle as well or better...
There are some that like their grapple but I think if they used a 4N1 for a while they would see that its a better tool. KennyV

 

[_RaT_]

You are right.
I have a heavy 4 n 1 skid steer bucket on my L4200. Never any problems.
When I bought the 4n1 I thought I wanted a grapple so I bought one of the big rock brush grapples...
After using my 4n1 I have NEVER used the grapple. It's still new, I can not imagine anything I would ever do that the 4N1 would not handle as well or better...
There are some that like their grapple but I think if they used a 4N1 for a while they would see that its a better tool. KennyV

Thats kind of my thought. The reason for the grapple was to retrofit a very nice tooth bucket from our CAT skid steer and use it for brush. Use the stock Kubota bucket (with QA) for moving dirt etc. I would think that picking up stumps, logs and brush would work fine with a 4N1 plus the benefit of light dozing, back dragging type work.

 

[Redbug]

I have an L3830 with a WR Long UJ2 4in1 bucket. It is 72" wide and probably weighs around 600 with the tooth bar. It is perfectly matched to my tractor, in my opinion. I believe you need to have a little more ballast on the back when using one, although they have less capacity than a normal bucket. I also have a WR Long root grapple. Both have their uses, and I cannot imagine being without the 4in1 bucket with all it's usefulness.

 

[_RaT_]

I have an L3830 with a WR Long UJ2 4in1 bucket. It is 72" wide and probably weighs around 600 with the tooth bar. It is perfectly matched to my tractor, in my opinion. I believe you need to have a little more ballast on the back when using one, although they have less capacity than a normal bucket. I also have a WR Long root grapple. Both have their uses, and I cannot imagine being without the 4in1 bucket with all it's usefulness.

About what would one pay for a WR Long 4N1 like yours?
Do you ever think it not heavy duty enough of a bucket and wish you had a heavier one? Thanks

 

[Redbug]

Hi Rat...

Wr Long does make larger ones...next size up is the UJ1. It has more capacity, a little beefier and heavier. The UJ2 is perfect for my size tractor. It is heavy duty and stout enough for everything I have used it for, (moving concrete, etc). I am satisified with it. They also can add a spill guard to the bucket top/back for more capacity, which would be good for lighter material such as chips, manure, etc. I also got the WR Long electric diverter valve. More money, but I recommend it. Since it would be plumbed, having a grapple also would make you pretty diversified.

When I get back to the house, I will look on my sales receipt and PM you. It's good to go to several dealers and look at their aftermarket 4in1's to compare. I believe Kubota now has a 4in1 offered as an option. You may want to check that out. I do not know who makes it for them, or if they are making them themselves. One of the members here...(Builder, I believe), was looking at them. Maybe ask him, too. I am biased and like the WR Longs, though. Many people around here have them, also. Maybe Nelson Long can answer a question or two, since he is on our boards.

PS...If you are just doing brush, all you need is the grapple, like KennyD said...