Grapple question

[SFish]

Hello forumites. I am in the process of setting up an order from Rainbow Ag in Ukiah, CA, for-
3320 E-Hydro, R4s
300CX loader
Gearmore 72" Box Scraper
Gearmore Top & Tilt
Farmi JL351P Logging winch
Wikco Grapple (ordered direct to me)
(around $35K)

I liked this grapple because it goes on and off with two pins and quick connect hydraulics. Two questions about the Grapple. Has anybody had any experience with the Wikco? I am getting a 6way electric valve to divert hydraulics from the loader bucket tilt to the grapple. What is the best way to set this up in terms of where to put the valve and how to set up the button to control it?

steve

 

[BloomingtonMike]

The 300CX can use a set of JD hard lines to divert the oil to the loader front end. Gives a place to connect up the grapple. I also provides a quick connect bracket for the tractor at the loader arm DSCV connection point. You can then wire in your new circuit. I use mine with the rear connecting 3rd valve on my 3320.

Here is a picture of those lines.

 

[rockyridgefarm]

I don't think a diverter is the best way. You lose loader functionality while operating the grapple. Deere's 3rd scv is ok, but the ports are in the rear; and the control is down on the panel between the fender and seat. You have to take your hand off the joystick, and lose loader functionality.

I am going with a solenoid actuated valve for a grapple. This will allow a switch to be mounted to the joystick; where you can operate both simultaneously. I am plumbing mire to the 3rd scv port.

 

[SFish]

Thanks for the comments. A third SCV for the grapple would require a separate control lever, two push buttons, or a momentary double throw switch. If I used the electrical approach, open and close would be on or off without any sensitivity. When I thought this through it seemed more natural (for me) to have a single thumb operated push button to switch between bucket tilt and grapple function from the same control. What do you think?

Also for either configuration, what would be a clean way to position and fasten buttons or a switch so that only one hand is required for loader functions (up/down, bucket tilt, grapple open/close), and operation can become natural? steve

 

[MadReferee]

If I used the electrical approach, open and close would be on or off without any sensitivity. When I thought this through it seemed more natural (for me) to have a single thumb operated push button to switch between bucket tilt and grapple function from the same control. What do you think?

I have a WR Long third function electric/hydraulic solenoid valve and have a 3 position switch on the joystick. This is a similar setup to what is being suggested to you. Using 1/4" hoses I have more than enough, in fact a lot, of sensitivity when pressing the button in either direction. Feathering the grapple is easy, even when using it without a loader function. I imagine that most of the sensitivity comes from the smaller diameter hoses which restrict flow and slows down the grapple cylinder.

Using a third function allows grapple use and loader use simultaneously. You just got to remember that when both are used fluid flow will be reduced to the valve that is second in line. Also having 3 functions gives you tremendous flexibility and easier manuverability with the loader/grapple combo.

 

[Dex]

I also have the WR long setup. The third valve solenoid is the way to go. You have full function of up, down, tilt and dump.

 

[SFish]

Thanks again guys. I am talking to Wikco and my dealer about costs, installation strategies, and their opinions on usability. I would like to hear some opinions about ergonomics of switch type and placement. steve