How To Clear Debris Using A Root Grapple

How To Clear Debris Using A Root Grapple

It may seem like debris cleanup is a never-ending chore. If you have a wooded area anywhere on your property, then you’ve probably had the need to clean up a bunch of dead or storm-damaged debris. That’s when having a loader-mounted root grapple can be a really valuable implement to have in your machine shed.

This video shows you how the Frontier AV20G Root Grapple (US CA) really does a great job with debris cleanup. Its powerful clamp arms are powered by dual independent hydraulic cylinders. In the video, we use a John Deere 5115M Utility Tractor (US CA), to which we’ve added a H260 loader (US CA) with a lift capacity of 3500 pounds (1587.57 kg). We also added a Frontier RB2409 Rear Blade (US CA) for ballast to make sure the tractor package is properly balanced. Always remember that making sure your entire tractor package is properly balanced from front to rear is very important. Your tractor’s Operator’s Manual is a great place to start.

As you’ll see, this pile of brush has been built up over time, and now we need to move it into an area with other debris where we can dispose of it properly. The key in using this tool for this purpose is to make sure you drive the grapple well below the bottom of the pile. You might even slightly penetrate the soil underneath, while driving hard into the pile. Then use the hydraulic clamp arm to clamp down hard onto the top of the pile. Remember – it’s debris. You can’t hurt it.

And because this is debris cleanup, you’ll want to dispose of it in a safe and appropriate way. So check with your local authorities to make sure whatever method you choose is consistent with local practice and regulations.

Along with this root grapple, Frontier has nearly 600 implements and attachments that are available only from your John Deere dealer, the place to go for advice and equipment.

So remember, for implements and attachments that help turn your tractor into the workhorse it was built to be, think Frontier and your John Deere dealer.

As always, remember to read the Operator’s Manual before operating any piece of equipment, and follow all operating and safety instructions.