A grapple for fabrication challenged folks like me

VT_Kioti · Jul 18, 2005

I wrestled with the same issue. My choice was made in part because the loader is on most of the time and my land is relatively clear. Also because after I read the posts by mike, kennyd, Kubotabilly and others I thought “I can do that, --maybe”. Then it got to the point I had to do it because I would drool when I thought about it. Take my wife out to dinner and drool, got to the bamk, stand in line and drool. It had to stop and the only way that was going to happen was when the grapple was on and worked.

I would like to put a thumb on the BH at some point but for me this was the most needed, right now.

I agreed with you that the posts of many very talented people here on TBN are not just fun reading (they sure are) but far more value than they might think while they are posting. Thanks to all of them my tractor now can do things with ease now that used to be time consuming.
Then - dig out small trees - push them across the field with the loader on the ground - Dam, loader was not flat, dug a big chunk out of the lawn - go back and get the pieces that got away - now try to get them up on top of the pile. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

Now dig out small trees – pick them up carry them to pile lift and place. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

So, IMHO, I guess if your needs go to rocks, the BH thumb would be the way to go, if its trees the loader grapple is much handier. It kind of sounds like the BH thumb would be the handest for you at this point but if you do go the bucket grapple route and want a kit made for your machine, WR Long's kit is quality all the way. PM me if you need the phone number of my dealer who now handles that line.

Al

VT_Kioti · Jul 18, 2005

I would love one on my backhoe. That may have to be a future project. KiotiJohn has worked out a discount with CDP- Backhoe and the thumb now comes assembled. Sounds like it is getting nearer all the time.

Al

VT_Kioti · Jul 18, 2005

Steve
I followed your thread " Thumb ... GEEZ IT"S HANDY !!! " with interest when I was trying to decide wether to go with the bucket or BH for the thumb project. Each has it's strong points and I was impressed with how much could be done with a little imagination. In the end, for my use, the bucket won out (for now).
My next project will probably be a belly pan like the one Red Rocker built because I am in the brush a lot and there is a lot of exposed things like hydro filters hanging there just waiting for the right piece of brush to come along. He did a super job of fabing that one and now I want it too. I feel the drool starting all over again.

Al

HomeBrew2 · Jul 18, 2005

I agree completely, Al, both systems have advantages (and disadvantages). My reply was directed specifically to trlong cuz he asked for input about his decision. I concur with everyone that you have about the quickest, easiest class-act grapple yet and when I'm about to drown from the grapple lust slobber, I expect to refer back to your thread /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Cheers!

B7800 · Jul 18, 2005

Looks like the way to go for us who are "Challenged". Can you guess what the approximate weight of the unit is? I located the seller on ebay and the price looks good. I just wonder how much capacity I would have left for a load on my Kubota LA402 loader if I went that way.

VT_Kioti · Jul 18, 2005

I would estimate that the complete grapple with the top mount on mine weighs about 70lbs. I over built the mount when I use a 2 x 4 x 1/4 tube. You would have a very strong mount using a 2 x 2 x 1/4 tube. There are others on this forum that would know the answer to that and could help you with the design keeping the weight down. Tremendous help and support here.

Al

jinman · Jul 19, 2005

Al, I haven't had much time to add to your thread, but you've done a fine job of getting that grapple mounted. I think you'll find it's very handy. Since it is so lightweight and can easily be removed with three pins and two quick connects, you can just set it aside when you need to do digging projects where it might get in the way. I say that because that's what I do with mine which is almost identical to yours. Mine is mounted on my rock bucket. You've probably seen it, but here it is again for comparison.

Open Wide

Did you use a restrictor orifice in one of your hydraulic lines? Do you have good slow speed control of the grapple? I really like the 1/4" lines and the control that gives me.

I've got an extension project I need to finish on my grapple and I need to make a mounting for my FEL bucket, so I have plenty more grapple projects to complete, but the grapple on my rock rake is really handy for all types of debris. I just got married a month ago, so I've been a little "distracted" lately. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

RedRocker · Jul 19, 2005

( . I just got married a month ago, so I've been a little "distracted" lately. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif )

I'm really hurt that you'd rather spend time with your lovely bride than post on the tractor board. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

shoppintractors · Jul 19, 2005

( . I just got married a month ago, so I've been a little "distracted" lately. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif )

Jinman has changed his tune. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

Ya won't hear the song "I think my tractor's sexy" coming from his speakers. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

VTKioti, great project /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif. I'm saving your pictures for future reference.

Don

MadReferee · Jul 19, 2005

2" x 4" x 1/4" is probably overkill for this application. From a weight standpoint the 2x4 will weigh in at 8.81 lbs/ft. On the other hand 2" x 2" x 1/4" weighs in at 5.41 lbs/ft. Since we are not talking about tons of force here, the 2x2 would probably be just fine.

However, 2.5" x 2.5" x 3/16" at 5.59 lbs/ft would be ideal in that you get more surface to deal with for mounting, etc. Neither of the above options is going to flex much over a 54" to 60" span so I would go with what you have.