Odd Grapple Behavior

[aixgeek]

I have a WR long 3rd function valve on my grapple. It's worked fine for several years, and last month it started doing something odd. At random times the jaws of the grapple will open all the way up. If I hold the joystick switch down I can make the jaws stay closed. This may not happen for several days or it may happen intermittently throughout the day. Any ideas?

 

[OldTrix]

I would reach out to WR Long. I'm sure they would have an idea what's going on with it.

Before you do that, have you checked all your switch wiring to ensure nothing is chafed/shorting?

I also could be the switch itself.

 

[oldnslo]

Have you checked to confirm the power to the 3rd function is 12 VDC when command is active and 0 VDC with no command?

Don’t remember which company it was but some of them had problems with circuit board controlling the 3rd function not supplying or cutting power like it should.

 

[aixgeek]

I would reach out to WR Long. I'm sure they would have an idea what's going on with it.

Before you do that, have you checked all your switch wiring to ensure nothing is chafed/shorting?

I also could be the switch itself.

Thanks. I suspect a short somewhere. If it happened all the time it would be a lot easier to troubleshoot, but I cannot make it happen. It has a mind of its own.

 

[jmc]

Long shots:

I have theirs too, from 15 or 20 years ago.

Mine used an AC switch in a DC circuit. I think DC switches are more expensive, amp for amp.

My manual warns it's for intermittent use only, not for extended duty cycles, probably like running a hydraulic motor. So if you have done that...

That said, their customer service was excellent back then and you'll probably get good advice.