Feed pad with rubber matting hailed as game changer
For Otago farmers Michelle and Rogan Borrie, a newly constructed feed pad on one of their three farms has been a game changer.
With a width of 2.44m the bucket offers 1.2 cubic metres capacity, while with the grapple open to its 2.13m maximum opening, this increases to 2.47 cubic metres.
Designed to handle round or square bales of hay, silage or straw, its versatility is extended by its ability to also “grab and lift” other irregular shaped objects. The company points out that it is particularly useful for loading feed or mixer wagons, where its ability to hold bales securely means strings can be cut safely at ground, rather than at a raised position over the machine.
Equipped with five, fully fabricated grapple arms for increased strength, rather than the more common RHS stock section typically used, the triangular geometry offers improved clearance around bales. Cleverly positioned hoses at the bottom of and inside the arms prevents the risk of snagging, while robust metal shields serve to protect the hydraulic cylinder spears.
Constructed using high grade materials such as RockGuard 400 and 500 Series steels, the AR 500 grade wear plates should ensure an extended service life, while optional bolt-on teeth can be specified for dealing with tough materials.
Attention to detail sees a tapered bucket design to promote easier emptying and reducing clogging in the bucket’s corners, while a robust bonnet grille incorporates a larger mesh for improved visibility. Tipping the scales at 580kg, the GrappleMax is offered with a five-year warranty for peace of mind operation.
Hustler CEO Brent Currie says, “While the GrappleMax might show some similarities with other grab designs, our development team has prioritised safety and the use of high-grade steels to deliver a remarkable strength to weight ratio, ensuring that there is minimal downtime during operation.”
