How NOT to use a Root Grapple!!

/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #22  
I watched Ted's testing part 1 and part 2 videos from the other thread. Sorry Ted...It was hard for me to watch...I clenched my teeth more than once...
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!!
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#24  
I'm glad you guys watched the video and made some good observations. They didn't go out and position the trailer in the best place or have a script to follow that made sure conditions made the grapple and the tractor pilot look "perfect". These were real world conditions.....no heavy editing or sugar coating.
If I were buying one, that's how i'd want it depicted.
Travis
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #25  
Hey guys... have you considered adapting your "HD" wicked root grapple (60" & up) with a single lid, instead of a dual? I would imagine that it would cut the cost a bit, and at least that way I could still buy one of your grapples. I'd also imagine that it wouldn't take much effort to adapt it as such :confused3:
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #26  
Most things you pick up are not the same size due to branches, tapering, etc. The dual clamps adapt to the variations. A single clamp would make it harder to get a good grip.

A single narrow clamp would not hold well. A single wide one would tend to twist easily when picking up material of varying diameter.
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!!
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#27  
Hey guys... have you considered adapting your "HD" wicked root grapple (60" & up) with a single lid, instead of a dual? I would imagine that it would cut the cost a bit, and at least that way I could still buy one of your grapples. I'd also imagine that it wouldn't take much effort to adapt it as such :confused3:

I asked Ted and he isn't going to make this one any heavier. He said that the cylinder mounts are gusseted and chances are it'll be fine for you. He said if something were to happen with regards to material or workmanship, he'll warranty it, but not if it's bent because of misuse.

johnnyvol just received his single lid grapple that he'll use on his L4060 cab tractor. He is going to post pics and feedback soon. Hopefully that'll help with your decision.
Travis
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #28  
Ooof, that was horrid abuse on that poor tree (and the tractor/grapple). I hope you were planning/needed to take that tree all the way down, and weren't just ripping branches off for fun to test the grapple.....

I find it sort of curious that you posted this video though. "hey look, our grapple holds up just fine to intense abuse from incorrect operation.... but, please, don't ever do this".
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #29  
Yep.. Dont do as we do, do as we say 'cause we wont warranty it.

Copy of video saved though...
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!!
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#30  
It was all for testing but, hey! Forget the chainsaw...got the fiberglass top to... looks like Ted could have a small amount of redneck in him. He owns the company, just grow beards and the family could have their own TV show.:laughing:

I almost forgot he does have his own YouTube channel.:cool:

Ted doesn't mind being called a redneck and that's probably a fairly accurate statement. It's just him on the show without the family.....unless that's Peanut.....hmmmmmmm
That could work!:laughing:
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!!
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#32  
As a Certified Arborist: "This is NOT the way to prune a tree!" but it looks like the grapple did very well.

I Stand Alone

He wasn't just pruning the trees, he was taking them down. That was a test to see what it would do to the lid by pulling down with it.
Travis
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #33  
I asked Ted and he isn't going to make this one any heavier. He said that the cylinder mounts are gusseted and chances are it'll be fine for you. He said if something were to happen with regards to material or workmanship, he'll warranty it, but not if it's bent because of misuse.

johnnyvol just received his single lid grapple that he'll use on his L4060 cab tractor. He is going to post pics and feedback soon. Hopefully that'll help with your decision.
Travis

Thanks Travis.. U guys are back in the running!
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #34  
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/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #35  
I went ahead and ordered one, but my tractor is not quite as big or as heavy or. as much horsepower. But I bet you would be fine as long as you don't just go crazy hanging from trees by the top lid and stuff like that.:) I am really looking forward to getting and trying out the thing.

James K0UA
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #36  
Shoot...I've done all that stuff and more with my grapple and no problems at all. I saw the video and assumed it was done tongue-in-cheek because that's about standard operating procedure for me with regard to what I do with my grapple..
 
/ How NOT to use a Root Grapple!! #37  
Been doing trees & brush (prickly ash) like that for 30 years with just a plain bucket, no grapple! First it was with my 1210 Ford with non-loaded turf tires & now with my DK35SE HST with loaded but useless industrial tires. I have to say I think so far my old Ford 1210 was a much tougher tractor and withstood the abuse better. I also think the non-loaded turf tires gave better traction on wet grassy hills and snow than my loaded industrials on the DK35. I would prefer ag tires as I grew up on a farm and loaded ag tires are hard to beat. On the farm we used Canadian logging chains on our D-17 Allis, great traction but a little rough on the roads. The only way to plow wet clay side hills, just keep your foot on the clutch as the front end came up quickly when it bit in good.
 
 
 
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