Anyone Using "The Thumb"?

[KB4330]

I am looking to add a thumb to my loader bucket and came across this site while doing a web search. Does anyone have one of these or know someone who does?

KB

The Thumb

 

[3RRL]

That is just another kind of bucket grapple, much like the Andy Tatro bucket grapples I have.

 

[bindian]

I am looking to add a thumb to my loader bucket and came across this site while doing a web search. Does anyone have one of these or know someone who does?

KB

The Thumb

Thumbs were originally designed for backhoe (BH) buckets. I have a fixed thumb on Bradco 511 BH. It works great for picketing objects up. I am in the process of ordering a hydraulic kit for it. I guess they just want to add more sales by offering it for loader buckets.
hugs, Brandi

 

[SkunkWerX]

"The Thumb" is a brand/model name for that particular manufacturer.
From what I have seen, around TBN, when the tractor-guys talk about "Thumbs" , they are usually talking about the device that does a similar function on their backhoe bucket.

For FELs (loader buckets) , the most used term is "grapple".

If you search "Grapple" on Google, you will find many manufacturers, makes and models.

If you search Grapple on this forum, you will find a wealth of information from folks who have built their own, and know them inside-out.

Also, a note, while products like "The Thumb" appear to be priced within reach, you still must consider the price of the hydraulics that will be needed to make it function, which can be as much, or more than the grapple itself. Just a little word to the wise, on that note.

On the other hand, a Grapple is a handy-dandy device, and everyone that now has one will tell just how great it is to be able to grab logs, brush piles, barrels, rocks and chunks of concrete by simply operating a lever. it's a real labor saver and boosts productivity quite a bit, and has FUN Factor , as well.

Good Luck in your quest, hope this little bit helped.

 

[hill]

Agree with SkunkWerX and all others above.

These would be fairly economical to build if ability is available.

There's a seller in ebay with a similar grapple that doesn't have as beefy a mounting base but does have a lower price.
Universal Grapple- Fits John Deere Loaders or SkidSteer - (item 200132369638 end time Aug-01-07 22:27:32 PDT)

 

[kennyd]

Did your #1 key get stuck

 

[hill]

Yeah, seems so, and I can't seem to delete that post. The edit box only brings me to a new post opportunity without offering the usual options?
Maybe if I close the browser and come back..... nope.

OK..fixed it. New lessons in forum vagaries.

 

[davidseaquist]

I bought the thumb and had the bracket welded on my grubbing bucket it works pretty Good I could buy another bracket for it and move the thumb to other buckets seems well made at a reasonable price I bought mine off of E-bay. It used hitch pins there is no zerk fittings David

 

[Glowplug]

I have seen posts from several members who have used "The Thumb" add-on grapple with good results. The member "M7040" comes to mind. He would sing its praises wholeheartedly. I haven't seen him around in a few months though. SkunkWerX is right on with the cost advice. The price of the unit itself is pretty cheap. It does include the hydraulic cylinder. When you add hoses and connectors you may as well plan on a couple hundred more. Also, make sure you have a way to power it. They seem to work well. Most say they're not as good as a dedicated brush grapple but you would pay 2 or 3 times as much for one of those.

 

[KB4330]

Thanks for the input everyone. I could make this myself but time is a big issue for me with work and two small kids. Right now I can get the one I need for $339 + shipping. I certainly couldn't make one for that and then buy the cylinder. I would love to have a dedicated brush grapple and that will most likely happen sometime in the future. For now, this will get me doing what I need to quite nicely and for a modest cost. Even if I do eventually get a dedicated grapple, this thing will no doubt be handy to have on the regular bucket. Again, I appreciate the help.