Need some advice

[PineRidge]

We are getting ready to put a bucket grapple together for our 72 inch NH bucket and we could use some advice from other TBN members on how to mount the project. We are using the design of The Thumb and making a few changes.

 

[PineRidge]

The grapple will use 3 lift arms instead of 2 and we will center the cylinder over top of the center lift arm. We think the additional width will give the materials lifted a bit more stability.

 

[PineRidge]

Our question has to do with how to mount the grapple to the bucket itself. Originally this type grapple was bolted to the top lip of the bucket itself but i'm thinking that might not be the strongest way to mount it.

If you look how some companies attach to the sides of the bucket i'm wondering if you think this may be an advantage strength wise. Does it make a difference if the support tube is round or square when it comes to overall strength?

Anyone else have any input on how to make this grapple quick attach to the bucket, or should I just settle for pulling the 3 lift arm pivots with the rear cylinder pivot to lift off the majority of the grapple when it's in the way?

 

[JASTN70D]

I would add a full length brace and put drop ears on each end with Pin holes to match the side of the bucket. You would need to reinforce the pinholes in the bucket. Maybe 4 locations.? 2 on top and 1 on each side. It would be quick release but I think you would get some movement unless your pins could use a taper fit on the keeper????
I doubt this makes any sense but a drawing is coming when I can

 

[Darren]

Not to complicate things, but I'd consider attaching the grapple to the quick disconnect so it could be used with both forks and a bucket. With forks you'd have to remove the guard but it would enable picking up and clamping more stuff that you'd be able to pick up with just a bucket.

You could attach the guard to the grapple to ensure safety.

 

[PineRidge]

Dareen I had considered your idea however when a large truck comes in here to be off loaded sometimes the pallets are stacked two high. The top pallet is very close to the roof of the truck. It's kind of a get under it and gently lift an inch or two to get it out of the way so I'm concerned that the grapple would more than likely be in the way more than it might help. Maybe still it could be quickly pulled off the pallet forks in that type situation. I'll consider that idea, thanks....

John I eagerly await your drawing. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[ronjhall]

Mike
I built my grapple using the side mount. It worked out well. When I got a second bucket. All I had to do was drill holes in side of new bucket. Here is a link to some pictures of it. Click Here. Thread has links to some other Grapple threads that may help you.
I can remove the arms and cylinder without taking the cross piece off by removing four pins.

 

[beenthere]

I like your idea, and will take it into consideration if I add the grapple, which I'd like to do. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[PineRidge]

Ron do you think there are any advantages to using the round support tube over square? Wonder which would be stronger?

I like your set-up by the way, nice job indeed.

 

[SPIKER]

hi8ya PR:

the round would be a bit stronger (not by much) but the sq would be easier to work with, align and attach now and in the future...

I'll eventually build one for my tractor too, no time now but one day I will. anyhow the side and top of th ebucket would give you extra strenght for sure. most bolts have more shear resistance than they do tear out strenght.

MarkM Jville ohio all under water /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif anyone have any ideas how to attach PONTOONS to their tractors? /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif