3pt Class I log skidder

[Blackgreyhounds]

I'm thinking of getting an inexpensive skidder attachment for small firewood logs until I need and can afford a proper skidding winch. Here's a couple I see on the internet.
http://www.drpower.com/shop-by-category/tractor-attachments/earth-turf-log-hitch.axd
Log-Hog™ Log Skidding for Tractors | Portable Sawmills and Forestry Equipment
Amazon.com: Load-Quip 3-Pt. Hitch Log Skidder Attachment: Home Improvement
Any one have any experience with these or other similar attachments? Thanks.

 

[roadhunter]

If you are a welder that is a pretty simple project to DIY.

There is another one out there that is a little more complex but not overly expensive and it was able to grab the log without getting off the tractor. I've always thought it looked like a good design.
Small Wood Lot Tools - Timber Maintenance, Pre-commercial Thinning, Firewood, Fuel Reduction

 

[Blackgreyhounds]

Thanks. I don't weld, but may just have to learn someday.

 

[Gordon Gould]

They all look pretty similar and should work fine. The first and third ones have a Reese Hitch receiver which can be handy. I would go for the most rugged made one that fits your tractor well that you can afford.

gg

 

[Blackgreyhounds]

They all look pretty similar and should work fine. The first and third ones have a Reese Hitch receiver which can be handy. I would go for the most rugged made one that fits your tractor well that you can afford.

gg

That's about what I was thinking. Thanks

 

[Xfaxman]

I'm thinking of getting an inexpensive skidder attachment for small firewood logs until I need and can afford a proper skidding winch.------------------------

Any one have any experience with these or other similar attachments? Thanks.

For that style, I recommend the Transformer :TRANSFORMER Quick Hitch Compatible Platform - OMNI Mfg LLC

Or the Combo: OMNI Combo 3 point Trailer Hitch Imatch Compatible - OMNI Mfg LLC

I have the slightly more versatile Transformer Hitch.

 

[TractorGuy]

Buy a dirt scoop. You can use it to pick up the ends to hook the chain on and also back up into logs to lift them on to piles.

 

[TheSpoon]

I'm thinking of getting an inexpensive skidder attachment for small firewood logs until I need and can afford a proper skidding winch. Here's a couple I see on the internet.
Earth & Turf 3 Point Hitch Log Skidder | DR Power Equipment
Log-Hog™ Log Skidding for Tractors | Portable Sawmills and Forestry Equipment
Amazon.com: Load-Quip 3-Pt. Hitch Log Skidder Attachment: Home Improvement
Any one have any experience with these or other similar attachments? Thanks.

Just curious. If you're looking at the first and 3rd ones, why wouldn't you just use a quick hitch (assuming you don't need the Reese Hitch)? A bit more universal I think.

I just drop the 3pt, loop the log, and put the chain through the top hook. I'll use the other hook of the chain on a link right near the top hook of the hitch to stop the chain from pulling through.

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

If you are a welder that is a pretty simple project to DIY.

There is another one out there that is a little more complex but not overly expensive and it was able to grab the log without getting off the tractor. I've always thought it looked like a good design.
Small Wood Lot Tools - Timber Maintenance, Pre-commercial Thinning, Firewood, Fuel Reduction

That is a neat design! Thanks for sharing.

 

[Blackgreyhounds]

Good stuff. I'll pick up a cheap 3pt trailer hitch /skidder for now until i can afford a real skidding winch.

 

[Sawman10]

Reviving an older post.

I am looking at the Small wood lot skidder and was looking to get some feedback from someone that has used it ?

 

[Sawman10]

Does anyone here use the Small wood lot Skidder or recommend anything else ?

 

[Gordon Gould]

I guess I don't know why you haven't seen any responses yet. I know there are lots of people on here moving logs with that type of set up. There has been lots of discussion of the pros and cons of various equipment too. I have a winch but before that I used a cross draw bar with a tractor hook and chokers. I would think that what you are looking at would be as good or better than that. I also have this thing that I made.



Tongs Grapple - YouTube


Maybe do a search for old threads while you are waiting for a response

gg

 

[John_Mc]

I'm surprised by the lack of responses as well. I use a logging winch myself, and now that I've used it, I would never be without it. However, it is a lot of money to spend if you are not doing a lot of this sort of thing.

If you Google "Tractor Skidding Plate" you'll find a few other options:
Wallenstein FXP Skipping Plate
Norwood Log Hog

I've never tried these, but know there are folks on here who have used something similar. Before I got the winch, I would chain the logs to my box blade, or use a three point hitch draw bar (about $50) with a grab hook and some chain log chokers to skid logs.

 

[andy1981]

How big is your wood lot , how big are your trees and how many do plan on taking out ?

 

[Sawman10]

5 acres of pines and clearing about 2 acres . Lots of downed pines to drag out over mostly flat land
This will be cleared over time I am in no hurry. Anywhere from 12-18 inches across and maybe 100 trees

 

[CobyRupert]

I have a Wallenstein FX65.
Probably just the right size for your tractor. (Personally, I wish I'd went one size bigger for mine, but it's still works great. )
There's several good companies that make them. Many here like Wallenstein, Farmi, and some Norse (?) and a few others.

I like the trailer hitches that come with the Wally's, the ratcheting lock (versus a band brake), and the protective cage (which I consider a must).

Some may say why spend so much for a skidding winch, when other means will work, and for so few trees, but:
1) Once you have one you will find yourself using it for other things. (Firewood cutting? Pulling over trees (leaners), pulling vehicles, etc...
2) They're hard to find on the used market, so you can always resell when you're project is done and recoup most of your money.

 

[Sawyer Rob]

Coby, you nailed it!!

SR

 

[motownbrowne]

I'll never not have a skidding winch ever again. Never. I got a great deal on mine. If it got stolen, I'd go buy a beans new one and even at full retail price I would know that i got a great deal on it. Incredibly capable, makes writing in the woods, safer, easier, and more fun, and won't hardly lose value.