Grapple Grapple Installation – WR Long on JD5420 542FEL

[GaryBDavis]

I just finished up my WR Long grapple installation on my JD5420. The grapple ran about $2,000 and the electro-hydraulic valve kit just under $400. The valve kit was less than it normally runs because I ordered it without the control grip and wiring.

WR Long seems to be the only folks willing to make up aftermarket valve kits that contain all the parts you need to do the installation yourself. They make up kits for several different tractor models. While I installed my own control grip and did the wiring myself, the kit came with all the hoses and fittings I needed for my specific tractor. I modified the mounting plate as I had a particular mounting orientation in mind. I didn’t have to go to the store once for a fitting, hose or any other parts.

 

[GaryBDavis]

Grapple in an open position. It’s something like 70” tall when full opened.

 

[GaryBDavis]

Grapple in a closed position

 

[GaryBDavis]

I used a Sure Grip handle with a trigger and thumb switch arrangement. The trigger closes the grapple and the thumb opens it. You can get different threaded bushings to adapt the handle to your particular joystick.

 

[GaryBDavis]

Another shot of the control grip mounted on my FEL joystick.

 

[GaryBDavis]

My modified mounting bracket painted a matching JD green.

 

[GaryBDavis]

The electro-hydraulic valve installed. You can’t see it in the picture, but there are sealed indicator lights on the valve. They come on when you engage the valve. This will be nice for trouble shooting someday should my wiring go bad. They look really cool at night.

 

[GaryBDavis]

Overall, I was very impressed with the quality. Good welds, nice finish and the pieces look like they were cut out with some type of computer controlled plasma system.

I also can’t say how nice it is have someone answer your questions and work with you to customize your order to how you want it. Good folks to work with.

 

[GaryBDavis]

Another detailed pic

 

[GaryBDavis]

Another detailed pic #2