A 12 volt actuator option might have been something they should have also looked at. A lot of the homeowner types (no disrespect) are really intimidated with tapping into the hydros and the almost a grand of having the dealer install a diverter valve is quite high.
/ New "Mini" grapple for subcompact tractors.... ONLY 156lbs!
I like this grapple, it would certainly make my BX more useful. Here it is on YouTube
However, adding a further $1000 to the grapple price (to adapt to the hydraulics) might not pay off. I think I'd do the install myself, but may prefer the lesser cost of a 12v version (if it exists).
No question hydraulic is better, but 12v would work well for such a simple operation. Comparable to the 12v electric lift on pickup snowplows, its tested and it works. If hydraulics can be added later (if buyer deems necessary) that would be ideal.
Does anybody know the cost of the LandPride SGC05 grapple? Cost of the 3rd function valve kit?
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/ New "Mini" grapple for subcompact tractors.... ONLY 156lbs!
Thanks!
Yup. I bought the two components, grapple and 3rd function valve. Did the install and while I was doing the install I added a hydraulic thumb to the BX's mechanical thumb.
I am very impressed with the grapple. About the only part of it I was disappointed in was the fact that they didn't have ANY grease fitting in the thing. I removed the pins and added them so that's good now.
As for the 3rd function set up. Nice kit, poor instructions and I explain this in my videos. The disappointing part of the 3rd function kit that I didn't like is the FEL knob/switch. It's Hugh. So big in fact you have to cut two inches off the FEL lever to get it to fit like it should but that was only a few minutes. If by some chance you need to replace that switch alone in the future Land Pride is going to be asking around $450. Plus tax and shipping. When I was doing my thumb mod I thought about adding that switch to the back hoe of the BX but it wasn't cost effective so I built my own which worked out better.
The cost of both items will run most people in the $2000. area plus taxes. It's a nice system but when you get your 3rd function kit you'll find it odd that Land Pride throws it all into a brim bag and yes, the kit may have some damage to the valve because of it and there will be two male quick connects missing in the kit that you'll only discover after you start the install and you'll have to get those ordered if your dealer don't have in stock.
My dealer had three kits and all of them had those two quick connects missing. They are identified on the parts breakdown as #22 and there are supposed to be four of them in each kit. My dealer gave me two out of one of their kits to get me going.
After installing the kit and got the system running I found it was fast and paired up great with the BX' hydraulics. The first thing I picked up with it was a 55 gallon drum which it crushed. The thing is fast too and worked well with the other functions of the FEL. I'm looking forward to using it this spring.
One other thing. Although not necessary I built a cover out of aluminum to cover up the 3rd function kit to give it a cleaner look.
I'm glad I bought the grapple kit.Our BX25-D has the FEL quick connect and it's only a minute to go from bucket to grapple.
I also fabricated a wheeled aluminum cradle to the grapple so I could wheel it around the shed rather than struggle dragging it around. It weighs 135 lbs and is 25 lbs heavier than the
BX's bucket.
Hope this helps
Here's some photos and videos for your viewing pleasure
Grease fittings installed.
3rd function set up:
Fabricated aluminum cover for 3rd function kit.
Grapple Cradle.
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/ New "Mini" grapple for subcompact tractors.... ONLY 156lbs!
Ford 5610 Ford 4630 Ford 3930 MFWD w/ 7310 loader Ford 3930 Kubota BX1500 Kubota RTV 900XT Kubota F2680E 72"RD Ford 4610 Kubota KX121-3
Thanks Paul, great description. Anyone know if the spacing for a LA181 loader off a BX1500 is the same as the current higher hp BXs as far as pinning on the bucket or am I out of luck with the LP grapple?
/ New "Mini" grapple for subcompact tractors.... ONLY 156lbs!
Would someone that has one of these grapples please measure the distance between the cylinders. I would like to know if there is enough room to add JDQA loader brackets so I could use it with my 1026R.
/ New "Mini" grapple for subcompact tractors.... ONLY 156lbs!
Can you show the location of the 3rd function operation? Is it up on the loader valve or do you have to reach somewhere for it? I don't see the switch in the pics, just the mounting and cover. Thanks!
/ New "Mini" grapple for subcompact tractors.... ONLY 156lbs!
Can you show the location of the 3rd function operation? Is it up on the loader valve or do you have to reach somewhere for it? I don't see the switch in the pics, just the mounting and cover. Thanks!
