Grapple

[Moemoe]

I've been taking notes from other members who have built their own grapples and am finally ready to take the plunge. I am lucky to have a friend who has a plasma cutter so cutting the metal was not a problem. Here is what I got so far. I'll probably start welding it up tomorrow. I do have a question to ask and that is what size ram would you recommend, 2x8 or 2x6? My tractor is a kubota l3400 and the bucket is 60 in.

 

[kennyd]

WOW, that looks like a great start! You should sell the parts as a kit!

 

[3RRL]

Seriously, I'd be interested too. How much to do that and ship to me? I have no access to a plasma cutter.

 

[jmc]

I think only you can answer that. Same force in either case. It's just a matter of how much stroke you need to fully open and close it. That depends on your geometry. It also depends on if you want the extreme positions limited by the cylinder bottoming out or by mechanical contact between the grapple components.

You might try making a side view scale model of your components with index card stock, assemble them with a thumb tack at the pivot point, and see how much stroke is needed for the full range of motion. This may also help you pick attachment points for the cylinder ends.

John

 

[Moemoe]

Thanks John, you were very helpfull. Do you think it might be easier to assemble the grapple on the bucket and then see what size ram I'll need? I thought I would do that first when I get ready to make the brackets for the ram. I was able to weld up the grapple today and will try and post some pictures after dinner.

 

[Moemoe]

This is the arms tacked up. I had assembled everthing with clamps before I tacked up everthing but didn't get a picture.

 

[Moemoe]

These are the bushings welded on the arms

 

[Moemoe]

Here is the top (2x3 tubing) w/brackets welded up

 

[Moemoe]

Top and arms

 

[Moemoe]

Gussets tacked in place

 

[Moemoe]

Bottom side

 

[Moemoe]

Bottom side.Looks bad doesn't it

 

[Moemoe]

another

 

[Moemoe]

Top View

 

[Moemoe]

All put together

 

[Moemoe]

Pins

 

[Moemoe]

All done except side brackets, Ram and brackets for ram

 

[Moemoe]

I have a tendency for over kill but I think this grapple will hold up pretty good

 

[Moemoe]

The pins that I used are from a bus emergency brake shoe. They use a horse shoe clip on both ends but I think I'll use a jesus clip on one end so I'll be able to take the grapple on and off one two three. They will also be easy to grease

 

[Moemoe]

Another of pins