JD 4 in 1 vs HD bucket with a single grapple?

SCDolphin · Mar 7, 2005

JD had a 4n1 bucket listed in there literature for the new 4000 series for about $1500. I had planned to get a hd bucket with a tooth bar and then add a single grapple to it.
I need to be able to pick up logs and brush; tough to do with just a bucket.
JD has a mid duel connectors to accomodate the grapple or the 4n1 but JD says it is a separate lever vs an after market (made by Long) button on the joy stick......anyone have anythoughts about this........which way to go??

Thanks

KennedyDiesel · Mar 7, 2005

JD also has Worksite Pro grapples listed under skid steer attachments. Not sure which loader you have, but if it can take on skid steer attachments it would help.

John Deere: Construction & Forestry

http://www.virnigmfg.com/default.asp?page=Products&Item=Compact

Edited long URL

GalwayBoy · Mar 7, 2005

Dolphin,
I went over this same scenario with a Deere salesman today. He stated that JD *does* have a setup similar to the Long, but that it exists only on the 110TLB /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

The JD setup as explained to me would use the 3rd SCV to actuate the 4in1 and the control would be down around the control for the three point. The JD is mechanically actuated, whereas the Long is electro-hydraulic, meaning that a separate valve would need to be purchased for its use.

We both agreed that the pistol trigger would be a no-brainer if there was an apples to apples choice, and although he knew where I was coming from, he would prefer not to have his shop get into installing aftermarket valving due to warranty/service issues.

Bottom line is with what frequency are you going to use that function, and what is it worth in dollars to have the trigger. I don't think it to be overly cumbersome to simply drop my hand down to the lever. I intend get the JD setup and then upgrade if I feel that my production is hindered.

FWIW A TBN member has a WR Long 4in1 with that trigger in the JD photos area here.

Best regards,
Jon

Dutch445 · Mar 8, 2005

When it comes to the electric over hydraulic controls, do you lose your ability to feather? I know on larger Deere tractors, when they run a grapple on the loader, and use the push button on the joystick, there is no "feel" or "feather" to that button. The switch is either open, or closed. When we talk to a guy using the bale huggers, he's sensative to tearing the wrapping, so the ability to feather the hugger is important, so most of the time we plumb those into a rear remote operated with it's own control valve.
/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Jim_Fisher · Mar 8, 2005

Jon,

( He stated that JD *does* have a setup similar to the Long, but that it exists only on the 110TLB )

When I purchased my 4300/430 loader/Deere 4in1 bucket in 2000, the dealer installed a Fasse diverter valve and joystick which allows one DSCV circuit to switch between bucket curl and 4in1 by pressing a button with my thumb. The dealer stated that the Fasse components were obtained through the John Deere parts network and carried Deere part numbers.

Here is a thread that you might find interesting. Difference in 4in1 buckets

GalwayBoy · Mar 9, 2005

(Here is a thread that you might find interesting.)

Thanks Jim.

There's a LOT of information there. It'll take me a while to read through it and develop an understanding of it all. Sure would make it easy if a dealer actually had some of the different setups on the lot though.

I'm also beginning to think that I may take a credit on the JD bucket and switch to a WR Long unit.

Jon

Green4Me · Mar 9, 2005

I have had my 4n1/430 for about a year. The best way I have found to pick up, say a railroad tie, is open the bucket. then drop it on the tie. Leave control in float. Use the roll back controll to rock back and forth while easing the bucket closed with the third control lever beside the seat. This method also works for cleaning up small piles of brush. IMHO the electro mech on/off would be nasty to work with at best. If I were to buy again I think I would put the $1500 or so into a grapple bucket. The 61in 4n1 bucket is basicaly a expensive toy.

SCDolphin · Mar 10, 2005

Green4Me:

I am not sure I followed you. Are yo saying not to get the 4n1 and instead get a setup that looks like a set of giant dinosaur teeth without any bucket capability?
If you go with the JD extra lever instead of the button on the joy stick, which side of the seat is it on the right or left?
Lastly it was my impression that with the electro-mechanical button set up that when that was activated, you could the use the joy strict to control the open close of the grapple or jaws of the 4n1 with the same amount of control as the curl, raise lower or dump function, not just an all or nothing full open or full close.
Please excuse if any typo's is 2am for me.

Thanks

KennedyDiesel · Mar 10, 2005

Deere has electric diverter that transfers the joystick functions to 2 aux functions. The switch appears to be a rocker switch that mounts on the console or fender. I would assume the joystick switch you guys speak of could also be made to work.

Otherwise, using the 3rd function lever really isn't that bad of a setup.

I have this kit being installed on my tractor from new, but haven't taken delivery yet. Should be soon...

Green4Me · Mar 10, 2005

Didn't mean to suggest the electric setup wouldn't work. I meant that if it were on/off I wouldn't want it. I don't know that. The JD third hyd. lever is on the right, next to the 3pt lever. Quite handy. I still maintain that this 4n1 is not up to the task and I would not buy again. I am looking to get the 73in bucket and add a grapple. Some of the guys on here have some really nice setups that they have built or bought aftermarket. The bucket would have capacity enough to move something and I feel that the grapple would be of use.