Edward M Jankowski

US Patent:

42856280, Aug 25, 1981

Filed:

Sep 27, 1979

Appl. No.:

6/079508

Inventors:

Edward M. Jankowski - Sioux Falls SD

Assignee:

Du-Al Manufacturing Company, Division of Core Industries, Inc. - Sioux Falls SD

International Classification:

B66C 100

US Classification:

414739

Abstract:

A grapple system is disclosed for mounting on the bucket of a tractor. A pple tooth frame is provided having a plurality of grapple teeth extending in fork-like fashion from a pivot tube. A linkage housing is also provided which contains first and second series connected linkages with a hydraulic extension member pivotally connected between the linkages. The free end of one of the linkages is connected to a first fixed point and the free end of the other linkage connects to a crank arm on the grapple tooth frame. The free end of the hydraulic member connects to a second fixed point in the linkage housing. The linkage housing connects to the grapple tooth frame via the pivot tube. When the grapple teeth are in an upward or open position, the linkage connecting directly to the crank arm is approaching an in-line configuration with the hydraulic member. In a closed or load engaging position of the teeth, the two linkages are approaching an in-line configuration. Preferably, ends of the grapple teeth are adjustable for selectively different types of load engagement.