Grapple 3rd function question

[norsker]

I'm adding a grapple and 3rd function to my 2120 for moving logs but can also see myself using a root grapple for clean up work. Is a grapple controller with momentary switches preferred, or are On/Off rocker switches more desirable? I realize that if I use On/Off switches I will be taking flow away from my loader whenever one of those switches is activated, but do the momentary switches lock the grapple onto a log?

Thanks!

 

[dstig1]

Mine uses a diverter with a momentary switch on the FEL joystick. Push the button and hold it and then the dump/curl becomes grapple open/close while you hold it. Most of my work is brush and logs and it works great.

 

[oldnslo]

Your 3rd function valve should have the work ports blocked in the spring loaded home position so grapple would hold position with valve not energized.

 

[norsker]

Interesting....so is that something which can generally be assumed about 3rd function SOVs? I'm probably going with a Summit kit.

 

[norsker]

Mine uses a diverter with a momentary switch on the FEL joystick. Push the button and hold it and then the dump/curl becomes grapple open/close while you hold it. Most of my work is brush and logs and it works great.

Is there a reason you chose a diverter in lieu of an SOV on the PB circuit?

 

[oldnslo]

Is there a reason you chose a diverter in lieu of an SOV on the PB circuit?

It depends on what the intended use(s) are for the 3rd function

Diverter on curl circuit allows you to feather the flow via the joystick to the 3rd function so you can operate that function slowly or full speed. Also not in main pump line so no added line loss creating heat when not in use.

3rd function with solenoid operated valve in the power beyond circuit is on or off flow like a light switch so no fine movement of that function. This a better choice if wanting to run a motor like FEL mounted post hole auger.

Hopefully these explanations make sense.

 

[Jtsnow]

I'm adding a grapple and 3rd function to my 2120 for moving logs but can also see myself using a root grapple for clean up work. Is a grapple controller with momentary switches preferred, or are On/Off rocker switches more desirable? I realize that if I use On/Off switches I will be taking flow away from my loader whenever one of those switches is activated, but do the momentary switches lock the grapple onto a log?

Thanks!

I have a true third function. It is just on and off each way with two buttons on the stick. I do like being able to curl and close at the same time but that said operating the loader takes most of the flow away from the grapple anyway. I don’t think you can go wrong either way.

 

[JeepHead]

I have a true 3rd function on mine but I did it myself without a kit. I just bought a 2 spool valve, plumbed it into the PB on the loader and ran ports to the front for a 3rd function, and to the rear for a hydraulic top link. Can do this for under $400. I did have to fab up my own brackets but that was simple. This setup works very well for me.

 

[dstig1]

Is there a reason you chose a diverter in lieu of an SOV on the PB circuit?

Easier. Possibly cheaper too, but nothing is cheap when you are talking hydraulics...

 

[5030]

I have neither actually. My M9 Kubota's both have plenty of hydraulic flow so what I did / do is I ran a set of hoses from the rear that I engage the top most remote (I have 3 sets on each tractor with flow control on the top set), I plug the males into the top most remote (Pioneer break away under pressure) and use the top valve levers in the cab to control the grapple and what I did was bought a Green Machining weld on grapple that fits on top of one of my buckets (I have 3) and I use that grapple on the bucket. Bought the appropriate hose and 2 Pioneer female fittings and fabbed up and welded on a mount for them on the loader lower cross tube. My loader are both 2 lever Bobcat style detach so I can use the grapple bucket or mu power angle snowplow or just a regular excavation bucket on either tractor. Like I said I do have a lot of hydraulic flow however and it's not power beyond but rather closed center.