Loader 4 in 1 buckets

[joea99]

As I continue my hunt for a machine, I sometimes see "4 in 1" FEL buckets. I can see the "clam shell" action could be handy, but wonder what effect this has on the bucket strength, regarding being able to scrape up or dig into compacted soil/stone.

Also, what other motions factor into "4 in 1" ?

 

[amigauser]

Midway Sales  - How to use a tractor with 4-in-1 loader

 

[joea99]

Midway Sales* - How to use a tractor with 4-in-1 loader

Thanks. That was helpful.

 

[nc redneck]

You will not find a professional without one. Homeowners yes. They are expensive for weekend use. Get a W.R. Long it will be much stronger than factory bucket. Many here will disagree, first question I would ask do they spend 8 to 10 hours per day on machine paying bills.

 

[Walkin Horse]

I tell you if you get one you will never want to be without. I have one on my backhoe. Picking up brush and logs. Back dragging dirt and manure. You don't have to worry about chasing or pushing that last bit. To keep from tearing them up they are built a whole lot heavier than a regular bucket. In fact it the one thing I haven't torn up on my hoe. If you can afford it get it. You won't regret it.

 

[powerstroke444e]

I have a 4n1 on my Kubota b26 and I won't have another machine without one.

 

[NHbotanut]

I have one on my B7610 and wouldn't be without it ( WR Long). So many uses . It is definitely stronger than the factory bucket.

 

[joea99]

Well, that clears up some of my skepticism. The cylinders are "on top" of and "in line" with the loader arms for what that's worth.

Edit. I woke up after coffee and realized I still did not know how the clam shell worked, and began looking over pics again. The short cylinders ( I assume there's two, cant tell) are just inside
the edge of the bucket. I'm sure that is what was being referred to.

Thanks for the replies.

 

[Grandad4]

Just be aware the 4 in 1 type bucket is heavier than a conventional bucket due to heavier construction and additional mechanical/hydraulic features. Therefore the net payload lifting capacity of the loader is less. Also, adding 2-300 lbs to the bucket weight of a loader that lifts 2,000 lbs still leaves decent lifting capability, but doing that with a FEL that is only rated for 1,000 lbs would cause a more significant difference in performance.

That said, the additional capability of a 4 in 1 is very useful for many owners.