As you probably know by now through all of my threads I'm looking into a JD 110. A couple that I've narrowed down to either have a grapple and a std bucket or a 4 in 1. From what I understand the grapple is a little better with the brush but I'll be moving more logs and dirt than brush. I like the idea of being able to "clamp" on the dirt as well, but what's your experience?
4 in 1 vs Grapple and Std Bucket
- Thread starter Martian
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greg_g
Super Member
- Joined
- Dec 18, 2003
- Messages
- 6,126
- Location
- Western Kentucky
- Tractor
- JD3720 Cab, 300X loader with 4-in-1 bucket
In the spirit of full disclosure, I've never owned or operated a grapple/bucket combination. The reason I chose the 4-in-1 was that it is a purpose-built device. The conventional bucket and add-on grapple - to me - just seemed to be cobbled together. After owning the 4-in-1 nearly a year now, it's hard to describe how much manual labor it's saved me (compared to a conventional bucket and no grapple on my previous compact). Instead of chain-sawing large limbs and small to medium tree trunks, throwing the pieces onto a trailer, throwing them off the trailer onto the brush pile - I now just drive up to the limb/trunk, grab it with the 4-in-1, drive it to the pile, go back for another one. Don't even have to leave the cab. I put a bolt-on toothbar on it too, and now I can actually break into a pile of rip-rap with a compact tractor. Again without leaving the cab. Before I had to jump down, throw rip rap into the bucket, get back on the tractor, and go. Picking up brush is simple now too, once I learned to roll it with the bucket closed first, then open the jaws for the pickup and carry. I could go on, but I'm pretty sure I've already done stuff with the 4-in-1 that wouldn't have been possible with a bucket/grapple combo.
I also did it with the understanding that a 4-in-1 was the more expensive choice up front. But in my book, it's already paid me back through the number of times I did NOT have to get off the seat.
//greg//
I also did it with the understanding that a 4-in-1 was the more expensive choice up front. But in my book, it's already paid me back through the number of times I did NOT have to get off the seat.
//greg//
That's kind of my thinking as well. I'm out using the bucket to move dirt, but then I need to move a tree, go back up to the barn take off bucket, put on grapple, move tree and switch again. I wanted to make sure the grapple wasn't so much better, or the 4 in 1 just wasn't as good. I think I know what I'll be looking for now :thumbsup:
PS: Greg, do you have any pics of your 4 in 1 as I believe it's the same but black for the 110.
Thanks
PS: Greg, do you have any pics of your 4 in 1 as I believe it's the same but black for the 110.
Thanks
greg_g
Super Member
- Joined
- Dec 18, 2003
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- 6,126
- Location
- Western Kentucky
- Tractor
- JD3720 Cab, 300X loader with 4-in-1 bucket
I'm assuming we're both 44hp, but am not sure it's the same platform. My 4-in-1 is a 61" Frontier, and is painted green. If you still want photos, send me your email address via site private message.
//greg//
//greg//
qstott
Silver Member
Since I have never had a 4 in 1 bucket, I can't dispute the virtues. I'm sure they work well. I'm probably baised after using my grapple. I had 20 or 30 small (8 to 12 inch diameter ) logs from cutting trees at the edge of my yard. With the grapple I could open the jaws, tilt it downward and pick up 3 or 4 at the time. Never having used a 4 in 1 I don't know how they work, but it seems it would be hard to pick up more than one at a time because of the "v" shape of the jaws. Another thing is the diameter of the log. With the grapple jaws shaped like a "L" a log as large as 36" or so can be plucked up off the ground. A 85" materials bucket was on the tractor when I bought it, so it made my decision much easier when deciding between a grapple and a bucket. I have had to make a trip back to the barn and switch, but I usually do all the grapple work first, and then do the bucket work. I suppose I could pick up the bucket with the grapple and carry it to where I was working if I didn't want to make two trips. I'm sure there are a lot of uses for a 4 in 1 that I don't even know about, that would make it better in some cases that a grapple, but I do know there are a lot of times a grapple is better than a 4 in 1. I agree that a 4 in 1 bucket and/or a open bottom grapple is probably better than a bucket with added grapple jaws. However, if you have a bucket and want to save money by adding grapple jaws, you're still better off than with just a bucket.
Thanks Greg, I thought they were more similar, don't bother with it then.
I don't have as much brush as logs from 18" up to move. I guess the most ideal situation would be to have both, but I guess I'll have to see who's willing to bargain...
qstott said:
I don't have as much brush as logs from 18" up to move. I guess the most ideal situation would be to have both, but I guess I'll have to see who's willing to bargain...
GreatWhitehunter
Veteran Member
I have both the 4in1 greg has and a dedicated brush grapple. I bought the 4in1 last and it definatly has it's place. However the grapple is much better than the 4in1 in 90% of my uses. I run a harley rake alot and end up with fine spoils that I'd have to shovel into the bucket by hand. The 4in1 eliminates the need for that. But for picking up anything else the grapple is better.
The 4in1 for the 110 is similar in build to the 4in1 Greg and I have,just larger.
Matt
The 4in1 for the 110 is similar in build to the 4in1 Greg and I have,just larger.
Matt
amigauser
Veteran Member
Rockgod
Platinum Member
If you want to stick with Frontier:
AY11E - 72 In. 4-In-1 Bucket for Current 300/400/500 Series Carrier
2212XF - $2,717.00
OR the HD version:
72 In. Quik-Tatch Heavy Duty 4-in-1 Front Loader
Bucket
Requires Skid Steer Attachment Carrier and Third Function
Hydraulic Line and Hose Kit. CWP Powered Buckets come with
Flat Face Couplers and Turf Loaders do not. A Coupler
Change out on the 3rd SCV Line Kit will be Required to Properly
Interface with the CWP Hydraulic Attachments.
LVB25343 - $2,934.00
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