Front Remote Conv and Thumb Build

[bigredcustoms]

Well decided to go crazy and hack into my new 28XL. While I was at it, I decided to correct a few issues with hose interference under the frame as well as the control column. The valve was a 9502 model from Pioneer (TSC) and many of the fittings and couplers from DHH online. Had the lines built (expensive Eatons) at a shop...would have cost less online, but the wait and shipping....it was a toss up. I wanted to use the factory rear remotes but the option to route them forward to allow for thumb and other future uses later down the road. I decided to spend the extra few bucks and make a factory looking setup done right that I can rely on using ORB fittings and flares where I could. I did a stress analysis through some modeling software I have at work, the 3/8in. holes (chamfered as well) for the bolts made little difference in strength. In fact, the loader frame's design and load characteristics far exceed (better than 2 times the max lift) anything you would be brave enough to raise even with double the lift cylinder displacement. Bottom line, it looks and works great. More pics to come, Shot some underneath to show clearance on the 3/8 lines on both sides of the frame brace. Yes, my lovely lady was laying in the dirt with me routing lines, wrapping the line saver, and generally keeping me from losing my mind. Gotta love a girl that likes to work and get dirty, but cleans up nice

Very happy:thumbsup:

 

[bigredcustoms]

Update,

Added 1/4 channel to the underside of the bucket top. Finish drilled the mount holes, used 5/8 grade 8 flange bolts and assoc. hardware and RTV to keep the water and dirt out. I used weld-thru primer inside and out and a few nice coats of enamel. Just need to add the QD's at the crossmember on the loader and some short lines to the grapple cylinders.

 

[pcl]

Looks awesome how much did the whole set up cost you?

 

[Texan4Life]

Looks great! thx for sharing

 

[bigredcustoms]

Looks awesome how much did the whole set up cost you?

$419 for "The Thumb", $210 for hoses (could have got them much cheaper online for R17's) $150 in fittings and hardware. About 2days work. Pretty good I think

 

[bigredcustoms]

Looks great! thx for sharing

Thanks! I'll keep posting mods as I go. Having fun with this machine!

 

[bigredcustoms]

Finished the Grapple, works great! Enjoy

 

[EricM28xl]

This looks great!

 

[Marveltone]

Looks awesome! Now the fun part... finding out how many things you can grab with it. :thumbsup:

Joe

 

[bigredcustoms]

Added a few more pieces of metal. Still had a bit of bucket flex, solved it permanently with some 3x2 1/4 wall. It's fully boxed, primed and painted. Now to add lights and other mods