My new Grand L6060- final configuration. What would you change?

[plowhog]

That is really good advice re: the size of a grapple. I was definitely leaning toward the largest biggest baddest grapple on the planet. So, thank for the feedback. The other thing I noticed with grapples is a choice of a single lid or two lids. I don't think two lids adds value for me, so I think I'll look for a reasonably sized single lid grapple.

 

[TripleR]

I suppose the "right" grapple is going to depend on the use. I have two fairly wide dual lid grapples which works really well for picking up loose brush. I don't have to arrange it so much as what may be too short for one lid to hold, the other will. My brother uses a single lid which works fine for him.

 

[rScotty]

Thank you to all who replied to my inquires about a L6060 for mowing 20 acres and cleaning downed logs from 8 acres. I am focusing on the configuration listed below. There is already a bushhog at the property. What changes would you make to the configuration I am focusing on?

Please comment with any suggestions-- this is a major purchase and I'm still new to tractors!

Pay attention to the tractor. I think you are doing right to get as much as possible on the tractor when it is new. Be sure to specify the transmission. Like many, I've gone from gear to powershift and now to HST. Am a believer in HST for doing any kind of back and forth work. Older transmission types are now mostly seen in ag tractors for cultivation. Go HST.
And please consider getting a Kubota's Quick Attach (QA)for attaching the front end loader bucket. The BobCat spec. QA sold for that loader by Kubota is the most popular way to configure it. Along with the "third function" for the front loader, this allows you to use any of the world of special BobCat type attachments for the front end. It is all very versitile for processing rocks, wood, fertilizer, or any type of mixed materials. There are even QA backhoes (fronthoes?) and snowblowers. I've found no downside to the QA type of fastener. But not having some sort of QA bucket for the loader is a detriment these days.
enjoy,
rScotty

 

[Fallon]

I don't believe there is a non SSQA option for Grand series loaders.

 

[plowhog]

Yes I will get SSQA for sure. And the Grand L model has a HST+ hydro transmission. The cab seems like a liability when doing the logging work, but only slightly. But when out mowing in the hot sun, it is priceless of course.

I've done enough research to repeatedly come across people warning that using tractors for logging type activity is extremely dangerous. Since I've never done it, and am moderately new to tractors I don't exactly know what precautions to take. Quick things that come to mind is pay attention to counterweight, so you don't flip the tractor when pulling logs if there is a grade, and stay clear of the cable when winching-- in case it snaps. Plus all the usual precautions to keep from getting your hands crushed doing lots of activity. Any other things to consider?

 

[rScotty]

Yes I will get SSQA for sure. And the Grand L model has a HST+ hydro transmission. The cab seems like a liability when doing the logging work, but only slightly. But when out mowing in the hot sun, it is priceless of course.

I've done enough research to repeatedly come across people warning that using tractors for logging type activity is extremely dangerous. Since I've never done it, and am moderately new to tractors I don't exactly know what precautions to take. Quick things that come to mind is pay attention to counterweight, so you don't flip the tractor when pulling logs if there is a grade, and stay clear of the cable when winching-- in case it snaps. Plus all the usual precautions to keep from getting your hands crushed doing lots of activity. Any other things to consider?

I just removed about 40 mature trees and agree that logging is one of the most dangerous things you can do with a tractor.
Having both, I like a canope rather than a cab for working around trees. No glass to break or doors to bend. Consider removing some of the glass & doors from the cab?? Save them for winter.

A couple of hints: Use chains rather than cables every time that you can, working by dragging rather than winching.
And make up a chain saw holster. Wouldn't hurt to also make up a dedicated place for chain and logging tools too.

You may have to search around to find a SSQA adapter plate for that model loader. SSQAs are so useful that someone probably markets one without the necessity for designing one yourself. At one time QuickAttach would make custom SSQA adapters for any loader.

I sure do like that HST+ transmission for ratio and muscle. Some early examples of the HST+ had a "sticky & hard-to-shift" range lever which was greatly aided by a foot clutch. That was a decade ago when the HST+ was just out.

I wish the Kubota had an electric parking brake like the JD310. If you figure one out, please let us know.
luck, rScotty

 

[plowhog]

Sounds like you found that using the winch is strictly to get the log where it is accessible to the tractor. Then disconnect the winch cable and use a chain instead? I'm presuming you are maybe connecting a chain to the drawbar, and using logging tongs or manually wrapping the chain around the log?

 

[rScotty]

Winch or chain ?.....Well, it's probably a bit of personal preference and also how the particular ground is arranged. Our land is tightly packed and broken land with a creek & lots of boulders & big trees to snake around. Winch lines tend to get hung up - so do chains - but no matter what is doing the pulling, the problem is that a winch line will stretch and store energy like a huge spring - which is something a chain won't do. A winch line stretched out with tree-pulling tension on it can be a dangerous thing.
So for our land a chain from tree to the loader or backhoe bucket is the way to go even if it is a bit slower than a winch line passing over open land.
good luck,
rScotty

 

[hayden]

Looks like a great set up that you have specified.

 

[SDT]

Thanks for the help. I had the Ag tired spec'd, filled with windshield washer fluid, but somehow it got deleted. I won't be driving on any lawn.

I can drill the bucket and install Ken's bolt on hooks. I did that with my Massey.

I will spec the 3rd function with electric diverter for the front, but I need to learn more about what that is.

Finally, I should spec which grapple to include. I saw the "Everything Attachments" wicked grapple, which looks impressive. But they also have lots of models, and I'm not sure which would be best. I know Land Pride and others also offer grapples. Any grapple owners want to comment about the pros and cons of their grapple? I'm presuming I want a "root grapple" for the log work?

I have a new L6060 Open station, delivered in January. I cannot use a cab tractor because I continuously drive beneath low hanging tree branches, simply letting the ROPS push them out of the way.

Comments:

1. The 6060 is a large hydrostatic/small utility tractor. It is suitable for only a small/light grapple bucket, and you will need rear ballast. MY 6060, with two sets of rear weights, (no liquid ballast as I change all of my own tires and have no fluid handling equipment) will not back up a non-level gravel driveway in 2WD with the FEL attached even with nothing in the 4-in-1 bucket. For grapple bucket use, you will need to load the tires. Better yet, load the tires and get the three point counterweight box. I bought the one for the larger sized tractors, as it is useful for both my L6060 and my M9960. I filled it with 40 lb. sand bags (Why open the bags?);

2. The third function valve is required for use with a grapple bucket (yes you could operate it from a remote, but why?). Kubota's third function system is a good system but the hydraulic plumbing for the grand L series is mounted behind the right front wheel and vulnerable to damage if the tractor is used for other than clean ground use. Pay attention, and keep away from stumps, etc;

3. The L6060 is THIRSTY. Yes, I knew this when I bought mine, but it is considerably more thirsty than expected. My L6060 uses between three and four times as much fuel to do the same work as my 45 HP MF tractor with 202 CI naturally aspirated Perkins engine. That said, the L6060 is MUCH more modern and user friendly and I can do the work in less time and with less wear and tear on me. Hydrostats are wonderful but inefficient;

4. I bought my L6060 without draft control but decided to have it added later (don't ask). Do not do this. The Kubota draft control system as used on the L series is a bit of a Rube Goldberg. You don't need it and dealer installation may affect the performance of the position control and/or other systems. BTDT;

4. Tires. R4 tires are most commonly spec'ed for the L6060. R-4 tires are long wearing, rugged, and a bit more puncture proof than R-1 (Ag) tires but are designed to not grip the ground well and will not pull the hat off of your head (yes they are better than turf tires in this regard). I bought my L6060 with R-4 tires because it was already so equipped. That said, I plan to buy another complete set of R-1 tires, rims, rear centers for traction related use.

SDT