Stump bucket grapple with FEL

[No1umfan]

I saw some videos on stump bucket attachments, particularly the ones with the grapple. Started to interest me. But then I looked into it and saw a couple threads on here that said you’re likely to damage your front end loader. But most of those seemed to be talking about somewhat smaller tractors. I’ve got a Kioto DK 45 SE. I’m talking about mostly doing brush with removing trees probably maximum 8 inch diameter. Would you guys still recommend against it. Also looking to use it to transplant trees around the yard. And any recommendations. Seems like most of the videos are on Titan, Tomahawk and GWT

 

[SPYDERLK]

The length of a stump bucket increases the leverage on the loader - especially what you might inadvertently apply with the bucket nosed somewhat downward. If the tilt circuit is centered and you push hard, the pressure in the tilt cylinders can go sky high and damage the cylinders ... or even the arms. But keeping this in mind and with reasonable care you should be ok.

 

[oosik]

I have a Kubota M6040. With FEL, grapple and HD rear blade it weighs a tad over 10,000 pounds. I would not even think of tackling an 8 inch tree with the grapple - let alone any type of stump bucket.

Think about this. How does a person with NO stump bucket experience know what "reasonable care" is. I use my chain saw on ALL sized trees. I thin my pine stands - every other year or so. 800 to 1000 small ( 1" to 6" on the butt ) trees are cut and chipped.

I would be VERY concerned. You do not want to keep digging until there IS damage to find out what reasonable care really is.

If you want to dig out trees - get a piece of equipment designed to do this type of job - a backhoe.