Tatro / WR Long grapple combo install

[MadReferee]

Since it's raining today I thought I would get some pics of my grapple installation. The grapple came from Andy Tatro and the controls came from WR Long.

I decided to go with the third function electric/hydraulic solenoid rather than a diverter. I did modify the WR Long setup a bit by changing the fittings and going with 4 hoses instead of 2 to allow for easier connecting and disconnecting.

I also used a 2" x 8" cylinder instead of the 2" x 6" one that was supplied by Andy so that I could get maximum closure. I will be using the 6" cylinder on another project.

Overall it was a relatively easy installation. The WR Long solenoid and bracket bolted right in. The grapple base presented some unique problems due to the rounded lip on the bucket and the fact that I wanted almost full closure (see following pics).

Total cost was just over $1000 which included everything but the second cylinder.

The only issue I still have is when the grapple is fully up and you try to close it, there appears to be some binding, probably due the geometry, that causes the first half of the downward stroke to be awfully slow. I'll have to work a little on a solution.

 

[MadReferee]

Grapple open.

 

[MadReferee]

Knob and bracket mounting. The bracket (black plate) is mounted below the joystick valve.

 

[MadReferee]

Front view of solenoid mount.

 

[MadReferee]

QD bracket.

 

[MadReferee]

Back view of grapple mount.

 

[MadReferee]

I wanted the grapple to be as close as possible to the bucket teeth when fully closed. I think 1" is close enough.

 

[MadReferee]

In order to get the full closure I had to go to an 8" stroke cylinder and I had to notch the grapple arm.

 

[MadReferee]

Contrary to popular belief, it is very easy to feather the grapple motion using the third function and button combination. The 1/4" hoses have just the right amount of restriction to give a smooth yet slow closing action on the cylinder. Here is the button.

 

[8561]

Great set-up Mad. I too have been thinking about a grapple and was going to give you a call to see if I could come see yours. Would it have been possible to weld a short section of C or bar channel to the top of your bucket similar to the way my bucket is configured and mounted the grapple to that. It would seem like it would have raised the mounting point of the grapple up flush with the lip on the bucket and may alleviate your binding issue. Just a thought.