Grapple Which type of grapple

BlueBerry Farmer · Apr 3, 2015

I'm interested in purchasing a grapple for my MF 1720. I'm looking at either the type that attaches to the existing bucket or the type that attaches after the bucket is removed. My farm is 75km from where I live so if I go with the grapple that attaches after the bucket is removed I will have to transport the two (bucket or grapple) to my work site as well. My preference would be the type that attaches to the bucket for convenience but only if it work satisfactorily . Any thoughts or experience or suggestions?

Dave

TripleR · Apr 3, 2015

My brother uses a bucket grapple, it is not an add on, but has essentially the same function as an add on system and he really likes it as it gives him the convenience of being able to do a bit of dirt work if needed. I use a root grapple that must be replaced with the buket to do dirt work, but changing out is easy as my tractors rarely leave their respective farms.

Given your situation, a bucket grapple would be very tempting.

nybirdman · Apr 3, 2015

I use a Green's Machine Thumb and a tooth-bar.Works very well and the thumb comes off with four bolts.

pmsmechanic · Apr 3, 2015

I transport two buckets at times. It's really not that difficult. I made my manure bucket slightly narrower than my materials bucket. It's quite easy to slide the manure bucket inside the other bucket for transportation. If you buy a fork type grapple I can't see it being too hard to pick the materials bucket up and nestle it in the grapple for transport.

Walkin Horse · Apr 3, 2015

I also bought the thumb from Greens. I really don't like it on the bucket. When I was thinking about getting it someone said it was like picking up a jar with needle nose pliers. Well logs shoot right out of it. I have sims longer teeth to it but it doesn't help. Brush it does good.

Sunday I was backdragging with it closed and hung something. The claw snapped right off. I can fix it but I'm going to use it to make a grapple out of.

Sent from my iPhone using TractorByNet

Gordon Gould · Apr 3, 2015

I have an ATI bolt on grapple - similar to the thumb. I had it for several years before I added the tooth bar. The tooth bar made it far better all around. Better at raking brush, going after rocks and stumps, and grabbing logs although I could do this stuff before I added the tooth bar. Much better digging too of course.

I like it because I always have the bucket and grapple with me. I can clean snow out of a woods road with the bucket then go to work stacking brush when I get to where I am cutting. Here are some pics of what I do with it

Xfaxman · Apr 3, 2015

BlueBerry Farmer said:
View attachment 419420 View attachment 419421

I'm interested in purchasing a grapple for my MF 1720. I'm looking at either the type that attaches to the existing bucket or the type that attaches after the bucket is removed. My farm is 75km from where I live so if I go with the grapple that attaches after the bucket is removed I will have to transport the two (bucket or grapple) to my work site as well. My preference would be the type that attaches to the bucket for convenience but only if it work satisfactorily . Any thoughts or experience or suggestions?

Dave

Is your bucket pin on or quick attach?

What is the main job you will be doing with the grapple?

BlueBerry Farmer · Apr 3, 2015

Impressive and looks very versatile.

txdon · Apr 3, 2015

For brush, go with a grapple. I have had both and can do more work with a grapple and then smooth thing out with an attached box blade. The bucket will always grab too much dirt. and there is no good raking action.

If you do decide to go with the bucket, at the minimum as suggested, get a tooth bar. If you are looking for happiness get a grapple.

JRL305 · Apr 4, 2015

There are so many different style grapples, it's difficult to decide what to buy. Everyone's needs are varied also. I searched every post about grapples that I could before I made my decision. My needs are different than many people on here but I got some really good input. Figure out what you'll need it for and study up. I ended up with a WR Long OBG2 48" from Everything Attachments. The folks at EA are also very helpful and responsive to phone calls and emails. Do your research and you'll be amazed how the right grapple will make your job so much easier.