Another 3pt logging winch thread

[ericm979]

There's a thread somewhere on this site from a few years back where experienced people (not me! I'm still a beginner) discussed self releasing snatch blocks including mods. I found it very useful.

Cable chokers are a lot lighter than chain, even high strength smaller link chain. It makes a difference when you're pulling the cable and carrying a choker or two up a steep hill. You don't need a rod attached to get them under the log. I think they grip logs harder than chains. The one I have is not as easy to come unhooked when you start a pull as the chains with slip hooks are. Setting those up properly helps but sometimes the first log bumps the second log before there is tension on the choker. Or you just got the direction of the forces wrong.

Cable chokers don't let you tie the log to the back of the winch to drag it out of the woods. Well you can but not so the winch pulls the butt up off the ground so it doesn't dig in. The chains are easy to store especially if your winch has a place to store them like some do.

 

[John_Mc]

The only self releasing blocks I can find online are the stewardship supplies and the one (I guess they actually have two but it's just different bodies, same block) Hud-Son sells. I don't really have any experience with either but am certainly interested in any comparisons (or other options..). The Igland looks maybe? a touch heavier but I can't find actual dimensions on either of them. The Igland is $50 cheaper but also back ordered until April.. The local forestry supply place (which is large and has apparently everything else..) didn't have any either (despite having regular blocks from 3" up to 24"..).

Oesco has Igland self releasing snatch blocks in stock for $340.

 

[Code54]

Thank you for sharing this valuable information.

In my specific case, I believe chains will be the most suitable option. The winch is designed to store and utilize them for multiple pulls. This thread has become a great resource of information!

 

[Code54]

The idea of painting the cable is genius! I am going to do that!

 

[WranglerX]

THE thing about working with chain it is infinitely adjustable for length, so you only need one, with cable you probably will need several of various lengths....And the one you really want, you left back at the shop....

 

[hayden]

I like chain chokers because on a tractor winch you cannot pull the slider end of the chokers into the winch like you can on a skidder. If you want to get the hitch off the ground you would need a whole assortment of cable choker lengths. With chain chokers you can adjust the choker length in the keyhole slider. Also if your winch has a slotted rack you will need chain chokers to use it.


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gg

I have a Farmi 351 and use chains for these same reasons. Being able to hook then onto the lifting slots is key.

 

[Code54]

Excellent information. After the storms pass I am going to check out a few local places for chain chockers since they sound the best for my situation.

 

[Gordon Gould]

If you have trouble finding what you want locally you can by chokers on-line at places like Labonville. It is usually cheaper to just buy the hooks on-line and buy chain locally then make your own. I use 5/16 hooks and grade 70 5/16 chain. It works fine with both 5/16 and 3/8 grab hooks and sliders and is plenty strong for tractor work. It is lighter and easier to handle compared to 3/8.

Norse - Choker Hook Only - Pin Type G80 5/16" [200693], [OLD_6228I]

www.labonville.com

I use a crude bending jig and torch to put a pin on the end to push under the log.

And you can make or buy a longer hook to push under larger logs or in the snow. Grab the chain and pull it under.

gg

 

[Code54]

Thanks for the link - I will check that out.

We have a ton of chains so making some would not be a big deal at all.

 

[Code54]

Dumb follow up question - with 1/2 chain what hook size do I need? 1/2 inch or do I need to drop a size to get the pin though the link?
Thanks