Grapple Help me choose a grapple

MOTractor · Oct 26, 2015

After drooling over the grapple threads for a while, it is time to buy. I will tell you what projects I have to do and what I think I need. Please tell me how wrong I am ☺

I have recently purchased a new LS XR4040 with a LL4102 FEL, its lift capacity is 2500lbs - but I am sure real world working capacity is lower.

The XR4040 has a pair of rear remotes and although I have not used them, the controls seem conveniently located almost directly below the FEL joystick. Not to much hand movement from loader to grapple / rear remote control.

I have been looking at the EA Single Lid Wicked Root Grapple and the double lid version - 60" wide.

My first project is to clear about 7 acres or so of downed cedars from an old field clearing project that got put on hold years ago. Will have to grapple them a couple hundred yards to a large cut that I will filling, not burning. The trees are mostly cedars and about half have had the limbs bucked off.

The next long term project will be clearing about the same amount of land, but I plan to drop a few trees then clean that up completely - tree disposal and stump grinding - then drop a few more and repeat.

I do not see myself moving many stumps, plan on grinding them, unless popping them out with the grapple is easier.

Even with the clearing the majority of the property will still be wooded.

I have no experience with grapples, only reading and videos.

I am planning on using the rear remotes for grapple open / close.

I am leaning toward the single lid - what do you think? Pros and cons of the single lid? Double lid? Why would i want a double lid instead of a single? What do you think of the 60" width? A manufacturer other than EA?

John

KenB2920 · Oct 27, 2015

Although pricey, I really like my EA double lid 72" grapple. If you get a single lid Im sure you'll be happy. I've never used a single but seems everyone is happy that has one. I don't know the cost difference between between dual lid and single but that may be the difference for you.

As for the controlling the grapple, I'm really happy I sprung for a third function and highly recommend the same for you. With that said, a member here TSO had a LS with rear remotes and that's how he controlled his grapple. Id ask him his thoughts. If clearing acres like you are, Id really think about it.

I use it all the time and it's in my loader more than the bucket. Mind as well spring for what yA want if yA can. It just makes life easier and saves time in the long run.

Coyote machine · Oct 27, 2015

I use a dedicated log grapple made by Igland out of Norway. I also have their model 4001 winch. I love them both. The log grapple a model GR-20 is around 360 pounds and is very heavy duty. These guys know how to log the woods. You're looking at grapples that are used to do brush and similar things, and that may not suit your primary tasks. I can carry huge entire trees with the log grapple and cut the log once off the ground to needed size too. See my avatar with a boulder in it's jaws.

Igland AS

Igland AS

Mysfyt · Oct 27, 2015

I'm pretty much doing the same thing you are and I chose the EA 60" double. Since this is the only grapple I've owned, I have no opinion to offer other than it gets the job done and so far no issues. I'll put in a second vote for getting the 3rd function.

EverythingAttachments · Oct 27, 2015

I like 60". Single or double is up to ya! $300 difference and I haven't heard of any game changing limitations of one vs. the other.
Travis

And now........A subliminal ad from our sponsors!

k0ua · Oct 27, 2015

I have the single lid EA grapple, and it works fine for me. I am using a rear remote to control the lid. I did lengthen the rear remote lever to make it more convenient to operate.

Luke'sScreenName · Oct 27, 2015

If you aren't moving lots of boulders or multiple stumps at a time go with single lid. Should have a faster cycle time and be able to handle torsional load from long logs better.
Also, go with a flat bottom tine not a "root" grapple for the work you described.
If I could do it over, I would have a 60" not 72" grapple.

TripleR · Oct 27, 2015

I have only been using grapples for a bit over a year and use a double lid 72" on our M8540 and 60" on my L5740, both Loflin as that is what our dealer uses on his farms, so I really can't offer much guidance on the quality and durability of various brands.

I do really like the third function we have on my 5740 and recommend it if you can afford it. My second choice would be a diverter kit, you can make your own or get the kit from Ken's Bolt On Hooks then third use the rear remotes, we are getting along that way on our M8540, bu it causes problems when using our hydraulics on the box scraper, not a problem for many.

oosik · Oct 27, 2015

I have a single lid grapple - Land Pride SGC1560. I sprung for the $$$ and had the dealer install the third function. I find I use it so often that the bucket is seldom on the tractor. Its a very HD grapple but my experience told me to go this way and avoid "grapple damage".

I would definitely recommend the third function AND beef up your grill guard to protect the radiator. Lots of threads on TBN where folks did this after expensive damage.View attachment 445330 View attachment 445331