Grapple Danuser Intimdator modification

[Smokeydog]

Out this morning plucking trees out flower beds, along the roads and walls. This year black walnuts 4-6’ tall have longer than that tap roots that came out after last night storms.

The two grippers have tab and slot near the tips that gives them strength when closed. Excavate only with grippers closed per Danuser.

Problem is that slot gets packed with gravel, dirt, wood and keeps the blades from closing. Noted newer models changed this to having open back side. Contacted Danuser and said the change was the result of my problem and I could open mine up.

Before

After. Easy 5 minute job.

 

[2manyrocks]

Is that an easy 5 minute job with a plasma cutter??

 

[Smokeydog]

Is that an easy 5 minute job with a plasma cutter??

Yep. 1/2”. Actually cutting took 30 seconds.

Had to dig out the pocket about once a year. Skinny stuff needs to clamp tight.

 

[jmc]

Did you consider adding some weld to the front of the slot bracket, now that it's cantilevered?

 

[Smokeydog]

Did you consider adding some weld to the front of the slot bracket, now that it's cantilevered?

Looked at the front weld to be OK. Could tell it was laid in hot. They are probably better welders than me. Most of the force is near the weld. With a stick welder could probably run a 6010 bead on the inside.

Plucked about 100 trees and shrubs. Appreciate the age appropriate tool for maintenance.