Logging cable?

SteveInMD · May 14, 2008

Charles Park said:
Is the idea to pull brush out of the ground by the roots? Or to just gather brush that has been already cut and haul it to a pile?

I want to pull them out by the roots to slow the rate they return. I ordered the 3/8" cat choker from Bailey's. It looks like the right tool for the job. I may keep an eye out for one with a longer cable. Or find someone to make one up for me.

sunspot · May 15, 2008

How is cable thickness rated for horsepower? I would like to use a cable but I do not want the dreaded "Snap"? I know the thinner the cable, the easier it is to handle but the maximum pull will be less.
I have 47hp tractor. What size cable choker would I use?
TIA.

Charlesaf3 · May 15, 2008

If you are lifting with the bucket or pto, anything with a working load limit comfortably excess of capacity.

I'm sure some of the more knowledgable people here would know how to calculate drawbar pull in pounds. I'd buy a large margin for that, as there's more oppty for dynamic loading (ie jerks). I really don't think jerking cable is a great idea....

I use grade 70 chain from Harbor freight.

Northland · May 15, 2008

sunspot said:
How is cable thickness rated for horsepower? I would like to use a cable but I do not want the dreaded "Snap"? I know the thinner the cable, the easier it is to handle but the maximum pull will be less.
I have 47hp tractor. What size cable choker would I use?
TIA.

I have 1/2" cable which is what my logger neighbors use on their skidders- these cables have mega pulling power-way more then I would ever need. There are also 3/4, 5/8 and 9/16"s sizes to. I will buy 3/4" from now on.

see http://www.slingchoker.com/pdf/WIREROPE.PDF

and Wire Rope - Woodlander Products

Charlesaf3 · May 15, 2008

good point. Basically, no one ever got upset by their cable NOT breaking. And from the sounds of it they are pretty deadly when they do. I'd be cautious and go large.