Who's Using A Grapple ?

A couple years ago...trying to get the ash out before it turned to dust. Ridiculously capable woods machine this Kubota bx is. Most times I could sneak off trail...grab a log between good standing trees....sneak back out without a scuff...rut...or even a depression in the ground...and without having to ever get off of the machine....which is more important with every passing year for me !

 

The main thing is to watch out for is bumps and holes. That can be a front axle killer.

 

We have the next size up, L3103. Finally got it converted to QA and got a grapple in Feb '21. I have really enjoyed it. Really handy for loading logs on the dump trailer...
And moving logs to the processing area
We welded 2 hooks on the top frame, use chain and tongs for logs to big for the grapple...those are 43" dia
I found out the hard way about carrying really heavy loads...and not stopping when the seal started leaking....normally seal and 2 bearings are $75, this time was $1000......




Just be careful

 

Where was that seal part on the tractor sir?

 

Been too long buddy !! Thanks for the shout out!

 

Great looking setup! Those are some big logs ! Sorry to see what kind of expensive damage it can do
I'll heed your warning for sure.

 

Axle seal, started leaking when bearing began to fail...
Seal marked 060/180 on parts drawing

 

I was looking through the posts and I was going to mention that when I came across your pictures !! T.Jeff I have fixed quite a few kubota and others for the same catastrophy the little tractors are tough but the front axles are the weal link they have upgraded in recent years but if you see any leakage from the front knuckle area open it up and check seals and bushings/bearings and inspect shafts for cracks it can cost plenty the problem is they will lift way more than those axles were designed for I have done repairs on kubotas up to a 4150 (older tractor) same problems JB

 

I gots one on my terex pt70. Don’t use it a whole lot for firewood, but it is damm handy when I do

 

Wow..thats a great setup right there ! That'll lift serious logs! Love the old Ford dump too

 

Was going to say the same thing but didn’t want to make it weird Kev…

 

Lol ! I've been missing posting on here..thats for sure ! Life has gotten crazy...busy...and great ! Still doing all the same things...and taking pics from time to time...but never much time for posting anything. Well I'm gonna try and change that. Been great to see some familiar names and friends still on here !
Thanks for welcoming me back fellas...means alot

 

I get where you are coming from , for a while I was kind of MIA and then wandered back and realized how much I enjoy it here. You aren't the only one that is lacking posting pictures; i'm working on it but still have a long way to go on that.
Welcome back !

 

My grapple probably sees more use than my bucket and forks combined.

 

Well once again I come here and it costs me money

Just placed an order for one from CTA , building them now and I should see it in around 3 weeks.

I had been debating one and reading this thread the final straw.

 

Sucks doesn't it! I feel your pain. Between saws, splitters, mauls, axes and attachments for my tractor this site has cost me a small fortune.

 

You won't regret it !! I can't believe I ever did without one ! Wood..rocks...brush...trees..wood chucks..steel beams...scrap metal...are just some of the things I've used mine for. Dont even know where my pulling chain or wheelbarrow are anymore lol !

 

It's really well made. I've dug rocks, wrestled stumps, moved concrete chunks and other rough work. Pretty stout laser cut with wet welds. I'm happy with it and I'm rarely happy with anything.