Grapple Design

[dtd24]

I ran the electrical switch this weekend. I ended up having to use a on/center off/ on switch because I ran the power off an aux fuse panel I installed when doing my lights. If I used the on/on switch I wanted to it would have always been on and drained my battery. I encased the switch in a radio shack project box. I am very happy with the location.

Next weekend HYDRAULICS!!!!!

I also ordered the steel so I will be starting on that side shortly.

 

[J_J]

Have you looked on Ebay for Grapples? I think they have some that will fit. or will make up for you.

 

[dtd24]

What fun is that JJ? The grapple is going to be very useful, and yes I have researched all available grapples. I like the process of the project as well. Keeps me out of trouble!!!!!

 

[SkunkWerX]

I ran the electrical switch this weekend. I ended up having to use a on/center off/ on switch because I ran the power off an aux fuse panel I installed when doing my lights. If I used the on/on switch I wanted to it would have always been on and drained my battery. I encased the switch in a radio shack project box. I am very happy with the location.

Next weekend HYDRAULICS!!!!!

I also ordered the steel so I will be starting on that side shortly.

DTD, good catch on the battery draining issue, but, just a word of caution, it wouldn't be too difficult for that switch to be left in one of the [ON]positions. You might still consider using something coming off of the ignition switch, that way if tractor is OFF, so is the grapple switch.

Just my 2 cents. proceed as you see fit.

 

[dtd24]

I agree with you skunk, I need to look at the tractor some more to see how I can get that done. The fuse panel on the tractor has fuse openings, but the metal bar on the back doesn't continue all the way through. I was trying to leave all custom stuff on it's own. How would I send power to my entire aux fuse panel, only when ignition is on?

 

[SkunkWerX]

If the aux panel is stock, I'm suprised it's not on the ignition already?

But, if it is not, you will need to find the switched side of the ignition (back end) and tap there, using a stand-alone, or pick a seldom used that has plenty of capacity and tap into it.

I used my 12v Aux "cigarette lighter" circuit, which had a 10a fuse on it.
I tapped into it, and ran a 3a stand-alone just for the solenoids.
Each solenoid draws 1.67a, and there is no way you can both ON. using our switch set-ups, so, I felt 3a gave enough protection.

 

[dtd24]

I installed the diverter valve and hooked up all the hydraulics this weekend with some help from my father and a friend of his. Happy to say my dump/ curl works. I guess I won't know if the front quick connects actually work until I installl the grapple. It won't be long now.

Here are some pics

 

[kennyd]

Looks Good DTD!

Check your PM's, I've been trying to reach you

 

[SkunkWerX]

Looking good DTD! You should be good-to-go soon!

Nice plumbing work.

 

[Willl]

How come you didn't run 'em down the loader arms ?