MX5400 and grill guard suggestions

[TxMN]

I know there are no factory or aftermarket grill guards for this model. I do not have the skill to build or modify the factory grill guard, just questioning if getting expanded metal welded to outline of grill guard is enough protection? I will not likely be doing heavy duty grapple work, but do see a need for radiator protection. Since my grill guard has to tip forward to raise hood, seems adding anything out side the shape of factory guard might be a problem. Your thoughts and ideas are appreciated.

 

[oosik]

What little "brush work" I do - this expanded metal addition has saved me more than a couple times. A young fellow at the local welding shop did this work.

View attachment 677154View attachment 677155 As you can see - my guard fold forward in the middle to allow the hood to open.

 

[WranglerX]

I know there are no factory or aftermarket grill guards for this model. I do not have the skill to build or modify the factory grill guard, just questioning if getting expanded metal welded to outline of grill guard is enough protection? I will not likely be doing heavy duty grapple work, but do see a need for radiator protection. Since my grill guard has to tip forward to raise hood, seems adding anything out side the shape of factory guard might be a problem. Your thoughts and ideas are appreciated.

As a side note and not a criticism, but may be time to learn new skills.... Its amazing the things you can make with a simple MIG welder and a 4.5 inch angle grinder and a bit of scrap materials....

IF not wanting to learn new skills find local youth that has some vocational training (welding) and have him fab up something and helps him along in life....

Dale

 

[RickB]

The MX2268A grille guard is an accessory to all MX tractors. Adding heavy expanded metal to the OEM grille guard is a worthwhile mod.

 

[Smokeydog]

Some grapples come with brush bars and some have added metal to their grapple too. In addition to adding to their tractor guard. Sticks are sneaky.

 

[ehcrain]

I welded expanded metal to the stock guard on my 3901, if i were to do it again I would use flat bar to create a stronger grill. Placed on edge between the uprights of the guard wouldnt prevent air movement but protect against brush very well at the same time.

 

[Gordon Gould]

As a side note and not a criticism, but may be time to learn new skills.... Its amazing the things you can make with a simple MIG welder and a 4.5 inch angle grinder and a bit of scrap materials....

IF not wanting to learn new skills find local youth that has some vocational training (welding) and have him fab up something and helps him along in life....

Dale

I agree with this 100%. All you need is the desire to learn. Don't be like me and wait til your retired to figure this out.

gg

 

[Frankenkubota]

I know there are no factory or aftermarket grill guards for this model. I do not have the skill to build or modify the factory grill guard, just questioning if getting expanded metal welded to outline of grill guard is enough protection? I will not likely be doing heavy duty grapple work, but do see a need for radiator protection. Since my grill guard has to tip forward to raise hood, seems adding anything out side the shape of factory guard might be a problem. Your thoughts and ideas are appreciated.

Do it ASAP

I just punched a 4 inch hole in the plastic nose piece moving weedy trees. i can fix it but, i can't wait for my shop to be done.

FWIT, I have a similar tractor with 3rd valve for 4 in 1. My first project is to fab up a little protection plate for that.

 

[oosik]

There are many different styles shown here on TBN. Some are quite HD, yet show great imagination. Use the TBN Google feature and search - grill guards. I was on TBN a couple years and read quite a few posts like Frankenbota, above.

Sooo ....... when I decided to go that way - I had the expanded metal added PRIOR to the grapple. For what I have here on my property - I don't need anything heavier.