Homemade thumb log grapple for FEL

[carpediem4570]

Good Afternoon Ladies and Gents:

Have an old MF 65 with an FEL. Built a set of forks for it a couple years ago. Been trying to figure out how I can a attach a thumb to the forks to move logs, without adding additional cylinders. Was on youtube the other day and came across a video of a fellow who built exactly what I have been thinking about.

If you copy and paste the following, it will take you to the video on youtube, called #24 Homemade Log Grapple:

#24 Homemade Log Grapple - YouTube

Has anyone ever built such a unit? I'm interested in angles, dimensions, locations of pins, etc. A set of plans would be really helpful.

As always, thanks for the help.

Carpediem

 

[davedj1]

I just saw that and it is ingenious! I think you're going to have to do a little trial and error. Maybe use some wood to mock things up. Does your bucket have one or two cylinders, his works because he has one, I think two could be utilized but with two thumbs. Keep us posted.

 

[carpediem4570]

My FEL is a davis 99 loader with one bucket cylinder. Thats why this will work so well.

 

[davedj1]

Perfect. Maybe try messaging the guy on you toob or ask in the comments.

 

[carpediem4570]

Messaged the gentleman and he is drawing up plans for me. Will keep you posted on progress and pics

 

[dieselcrawler]

Thats a good idea... been thinking about a grapple type implement that doesnt use extra hydraulics ever since I saw my buddys Westendorf BrushCrushers... only dont want to un-pin my JD style quick attach frame. Lots of food for thought in that video. Thanks for posting.

 

[NCMau]

Here is my homemade simple grapple using a 2" receiver system. It is a permanent resident of the bucket, but it can easily be taken out with couple of pins. It has been later modified with a longer cylinder later to accommodate a higher opening.