Well, I finally did it.

daTeacha · Mar 22, 2006

I'm getting the grapple from Precision Manufacturing (precisionmfg.com, I think). The dealer will install the rear valve offered as an option on the tractor, then run lines to the point where the loader lines connect. They will also run lines from there along the loader frame and to a point forward where they'll set up another set of quick connects. From that set, I'll be able to connect lines from the grapple itself. The unit I'm getting is the single grapple that bolts to the bucket. They offer a twin set also. This one with mount weighs 147 lb and costs about $575 according to the guys at Koenig Equipment in southern Ohio. The double weighs 226 lb. I hope it will plumb in as easilyand be as handy a tool as I think.

rockyridgefarm · Mar 22, 2006

Sounds cool How do you control it?

daTeacha · Mar 22, 2006

I'm presuming using the control lever for the rear hydraulics will control the grapple since it's plumbed through that valve. It'll work similarly to the rear 3 point lever -- one way opens it and the other way closes it. The dealer is waiting to get it to determine what size lines to run, based on the size of the cylinder and what would be a good speed for the thing. He thinks it'll be better if it doesn't work real fast, and I tend to agree. It's not like I'll be trying to catch birds with it or something. The dealer ordered it direct from Precision Manufacturing at $500 plus shipping.

While looking around this site today, I saw a similar unit offered by ATI in New Holland, Pa. Theirs is intended to be cut and welded to the correct length rather than having a telescoping tube, but it's otherwise pretty similar looking. No cost was listed in their on-line catalog. They make a lot of interesting looking stuff to hook onto your tractor. They're among the sponsoring advertisers here, I think.

texbaylea · Mar 22, 2006

On my rig I have 3/8 lines from the rear valves to the front of the FEL but used 1/4 lines to slow down the grapple operation. I have the ATI single unit by the way

Vernon