hydraulics on Grapple slow

[ddivinia]

What RPM are you running the engine?

I have a JD 4720 with a JD grapple bucket. I am using the 3rd SCV. It is never really that quick closing, but I am not waiting on it too much. I use the same grapple on my JD 5525 which has a much higher capacity hydraulic system and it runs about the same.

The time I see it is really slower is if the engine RPMs are down or if I have a lot of additional load on the tractor. Like moving, turning, raising and clamping at the same time.

D.

 

[3RRL]

I think Jim is onto something.
With the variation between fast and slow operation "sometimes", leads me to believe you have an obstruction like a torn "O" ring or something or a piece of debris that "sometimes" interferes with the flow.
You might want to check your valve to see if that's the case.