Grapple questions

[akpilot]

I have read all searches about scratch built Grapples, I'm very impressed with this groups ingenuity!! I have a TC40DA w/a 72" bucket, should I build root rake/grapple that wide? Is it less likely to stress the FEL if I build a....say 60" Any thoughts?? I plan on using two grapple arms is it best to use independent valves, or hook them up in series??
Any thoughts or input would be appreciated.

 

[Rio_Grande]

For my use it will be better in series, I don't pick up much that is evenly shaped and I only have 2 hands and have to move quick.

I am preparing to build 2 one for my Fel and one for the rear fork I have.

 

[MJPetersen]

I would think that you would want to build the pair with one valve and in parallel. That way when you grab something that is od shaped, ie. a tree stump, then they will self regulate and both will clamp down on the object. 2 volves will work, but it sure seems unnecessary and a bunch more work.

Part of it depends on how you are going to power them. One very popular way is that you can use an electric diverter valve attached through the curl function of the FEL. Then get a "joystick" FEL handle to control the diverter valve. Definitely cool!!

Mike

 

[3RRL]

As Mike said, hook them up in parallel so the two jaws find their way down to the object and can clamp on uneven stuff.
Mine are bucket grapples but that's how mine are set up.

 

[akpilot]

Thanks for the input! I plan on installing two NH valves anyway, they come with two blank slots for additional valves, I think I will use one for the grapple and one for the Top link (Future addition)

3RRL Thats some good looking grapple arms Whats your opinion on the width of the root rake/ bucket?

 

[3RRL]

Thanks for the input! I plan on installing two NH valves anyway, they come with two blank slots for additional valves, I think I will use one for the grapple and one for the Top link (Future addition)

3RRL Thats some good looking grapple arms Whats your opinion on the width of the root rake/ bucket?

Thanks for asking, even though my opinion isn't worth a hill of beans. Everyone has his own opinion.
If it was me, I'd build it smaller than your bucket is now. You mentioned 60" wide, but even a little narrower wouldn't hurt, but 60" is a good size. You might consider the width of your front tires into the equation? That way you're reducing what you run over with your tires and also keeping brush from getting to your tractor when driving into it...kinda like a grill guard.

Unlike a bucket, you can get a lot more into a true root rake grapple, especially with no sides on it. More than likely, you'll be picking up shrubs and logs and rocks ... stuff like that. The shrubs, sticks and logs can hang over the sides with no problem. They do even with my bucket grapples. So you don't need a super wide grapple for that kind of stuff. You are not going to waste your time picking up every little stick anyway. Most likely, you'll rake it into a pile and grab it that way.
Anyway ... my 2 cents.