Grapple build on a bucket, Center or ends?

CalG · May 21, 2015

If one were to build a "simple"( read: a single double acting cylinder) grapple upper clamping jaw, onto an existing bucket, is there a layout or operational advantage to "a pair of teeth near the center of the bucket", or "a pair of teeth one at each end of the bucket"?

This is for "light duty" slash moving, and an occasional tree trunk relocation with a compact compact tractor.

No heavy lifting, no all day work sessions, no digging rocks and roots from their hiding holes ;-)
But I'm sure a grapple would be called on to help move a rock or two from time to time, this is Vermont! ;-)

Gordon Gould · May 21, 2015

My set-up works very well for all around work. Crooked logs are not a problem with multiple tangs though I have heard it said they would be. I think multiple tangs are much better for brush. At least in VT they are

Edit:

For rocks you want more than one tine also

gg

nybirdman · May 21, 2015

I went with centered and found it works fine for all my uses.Also a tooth bar makes it more versatile.

BrittR · May 21, 2015

nybirdman said:
I went with centered and found it works fine for all my uses.Also a tooth bar makes it more versatile.

that is just a silly place to take a nap.
*like the grapple

SPYDERLK · May 21, 2015

CalG said:
If one were to build a "simple"( read: a single double acting cylinder) grapple upper clamping jaw, onto an existing bucket, is there a layout or operational advantage to "a pair of teeth near the center of the bucket", or "a pair of teeth one at each end of the bucket"?

This is for "light duty" slash moving, and an occasional tree trunk relocation with a compact compact tractor.

No heavy lifting, no all day work sessions, no digging rocks and roots from their hiding holes ;-)
But I'm sure a grapple would be called on to help move a rock or two from time to time, this is Vermont! ;-)

Center is closer coupled therefore stronger and can be X braced easily. Difference in debris/log diameter over the length of bucket matters less. Jaw is less in the way when maneuvering. [Probably] less weight.