Avantco A441963 User manual

XL grapple bucket
2020 1
Operator's Manual for Attachment
XL grapple bucket
Product number
1300 mm
A441963
1450 mm
A441946
1600 mm
A439086
English
A443380 2020 1 EN 2020-
www.avanttecno.com

XL grapple bucket 2020 1

XL grapple bucket 2020 1
CONTENTS
1. FOREWORD ........................................................................................................................................ 4
Warning symbols used in this manual ...................................................................................................................................5
2. DESIGNED PURPOSE OF USE.......................................................................................................... 6
3. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING THE ATTACHMENT...................................................... 7
3.1 Personal protective equipment...............................................................................................................................9
3.2 Safe shutdown procedure ........................................................................................................................................9
4. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment ....................................................................................10
5. ATTACHING THE ATTACHMENT ................................................................................................. 12
5.1 Connecting and disconnecting hydraulic hoses..................................................................................................13
6. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE ................................................................................................................ 15
6.1 Checks before use .....................................................................................................................................................16
6.1.1 Operator qualification ......................................................................................................................................16
6.2 Operating the XL grapple bucket ..........................................................................................................................17
6.3 Using a bucket.............................................................................................................................................................18
6.4 Material handling.........................................................................................................................................................20
6.5 Working on uneven ground ....................................................................................................................................20
6.5.1 Operating with a tilt adapter ..........................................................................................................................21
6.6 Storing the attachment .............................................................................................................................................21
7. MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ....................................................................................................... 22
7.1 Inspection of hydraulic components .....................................................................................................................22
7.2 Inspection of metal structures................................................................................................................................23
7.3 Cleaning the attachment...........................................................................................................................................23
7.4 Lubrication ...................................................................................................................................................................23
8. WARRANTY TERMS .......................................................................................................................... 24

4 (26)
1. Foreword
Avant Tecno Oy would like to thank you for your purchase of this attachment for your Avant loader. It has
been designed and manufactured based on years of experience on product development and manufacturing.
By familiarizing yourself with this manual and following the instructions, you ascertain your safety and ensure
the reliable operation and long service life of the equipment. Read the instructions carefully before starting to
use the equipment or performing maintenance.
The purpose of this manual is to help you to:
operate the equipment in a safe and efficient manner
observe and prevent any hazardous situations
keep the equipment intact and ensure a long service life
With these instructions, even an inexperienced user can use the attachment and loader safely. The manual
includes important instructions for experienced AVANT operators as well. Ensure that all persons using the
loader have received proper guidance and familiarised themselves with the manual of the loader, each
attachment that are used, and all safety instructions before using the equipment. Using the equipment for
other purposes or use in any other way than described in this manual is prohibited. Keep this manual at hand
throughout the service life of the equipment. If you sell or transfer the equipment, be sure to hand over this
manual to the new owner. If the manual is lost or damaged, you can request a new one from your Avant
dealer or from the manufacturer.
In addition to the safety instructions included in this manual, you must observe all occupational safety
regulations, local laws, and other regulations concerning the use of the equipment. Particularly the regulations
concerning the use of the equipment on public road areas must be observed. Contact your Avant dealer for
more information about local requirements before you operate the loader on road areas.
Contact your local AVANT dealer for any questions, service, spare parts or about any problems that may
occur with the operation of your machine.
This manual contains the original instructions in English. Due to continuous product development some of the
details shown in this manual may differ from your equipment. Pictures may also depict optional equipment or
features that are not currently available. We reserve the right to change the contents of the manual without
notification. Copyright © 2020 Avant Tecno Oy. All rights reserved.

5 (26)
.
Warning symbols used in this manual
The following warning symbols are used throughout this manual. They indicate factors that must be taken into
account to reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to property:
WARNING SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
This symbol means: “Warning, be alert! Your safety is involved!”
Carefully read the message that follows, it warns of an immediate hazard
that could cause serious personal injury.
The safety alert symbol by itself and with related safety statement
indicates important safety messages throughout this Manual. It is used to
draw attention to instructions involving your personal safety or the safety
of others. When you see this symbol, be alert, your safety is involved,
carefully read the message that follows, and inform other operators.
DANGER
This signal word indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will cause
death or serious injury.
WARNING
This signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could cause serious injury or death.
CAUTION
This signal word is used when minor injury could result if the instructions are not
followed properly.
This signal word indicates
information about the correct operation and maintenance
of the equipment.
Failure to observe the instructions accompanying the symbol can lead to equipment
breakdown or other property damage.

6 (26)
2. Designed purpose of use
The AVANT XL grapple buckets are attachments that are suitable for use with AVANT compact loaders that
are shown in Table 1. The grapple bucket combines a normal bucket and a hydraulic grapple which makes the
attachment suitable for many different tasks. The strong grapple makes it easy to load and move loose
materials, which would fall from other attachments such as the silage forks. The grapple bucket is suitable, for
example, for transporting and loading of branches, wood chips, compost, straw, manure, construction waste
etc. It can also be used as a normal bucket with the grapple in the upright position.
The larger grapple bucket XL series is intended mainly for Avant 700 and 800 series loaders. Three widths are
available to match the width of the loader. When choosing a bucket, the intended use of the bucket, and the
model of the loader must be considered, as shown in Table 1. If the loader is fitted with other than standard
tyres, or differs from original specifications, consult your Avant dealer to choose the best bucket.
The Grapple bucket is not designed for any other use than what is specified in this manual and must not be
used for any other purposes than what is intended for.
The attachment has been designed to require as little maintenance as possible. The operator can perform
regular maintenance tasks. All repair work can’t be performed by the operator, and demanding repair and
maintenance operations are to be left for professional technicians. All maintenance work must be done using
proper safety equipment. Spare parts must be identical with original specifications, which can be ensured by
using only original spare parts. A separate spare parts catalogue may be available, consult your Avant dealer.
Familiarise yourself with the manual's instructions regarding service and maintenance. Please contact your
AVANT dealer if you have additional questions about the operation or maintenance of the equipment, or if you
require spare parts or maintenance services.
Table 1 - XL grapple bucket - Compatibility with Avant loaders
Avant
220 series 2
225
225LPG
313S
320S
419
420
423
520
523
R20
525LPG
R28
528
530
630
R35
635
640
735
745
750
755i
760i
850
860i
e5
e6
A441007 1300 mm - - - (•) •••••
A440998 1450 mm - - - - (•) ••••
A440586 1600 mm - - - - (•) (•) •••
The compatibility recommendations are based on the width of the loader, lifting capacity, and adequate
breakout force. Normally the width of the attachment should match roughly the width of the loader. When
using too wide attachment the actual breakout force (bucket tilting capacity) decreases and the overall
performance will decrease. To estimate the lifting capacity of the loader the load diagram shown in the
operator’s manual of the loader can be used. When using with models marked with (•), full performance may
not be achieved. Additional counterweights may also be required.
For compatibility information with a model not shown in table above, contact your Avant dealer.

7 (26)
3. Safety instructions for using the attachment
Please bear in mind that safety is the result of several factors. The loader-attachment combination is highly
powerful and improper or careless use or maintenance may cause serious personal injury or property
damage. Due to this, all operators must carefully familiarise themselves about correct use and the operator's
manuals of both the loader and the attachment before starting operation. Do not use the attachment if you
have not completely familiarised yourself with its operation and the related hazards.
DANGER
Misuse, carele
ss use, or using an attachment that is in poor condition may
cause risk of serious injuries.
Familiarise yourself with the controls of the loader,
correct coupling procedure, and the correct way to operate the attachment at a safe
area. Study especially ho
w to stop the equipment in a safe manner. Read all safety
precautions carefully.
Read all safety instructions carefully before handling the attachment
WARNING
When attaching an attachment to the loader, ensure that the locking pins of the
loader's qu
ick attach plate are in the lower position and that they have locked
the attachment to the loader. Never lift or move an unlocked attachment.

This attachment is designed to be used by one operator at a time. Do not let others
near the danger area of the equipment when it is in use.

Always transport the attachment as low as possible to keep the centre of gravity low,
and keep the telescopic boom retracted during driving.
Risk of getting injured by sharp tines of grapple - Lower the grapple completely
befo
re going near the sharp tines and the grapple, which may lower even if the
loader is not running.
Lower the attachment on the ground and lower its grapple
completely before leaving the driver's seat to avoid unintentional movements of the
loader and the grapple. Follow safe stopping procedure.
Sudden movements can cause the loader to tip over - Operate the controls of
the loader in a slow and calm manner.
Be careful when lifting load to high level or
lifting load from high. Avoid sudden changes in speed
or direction to maintain
balance of the loader especially when handling heavy loads. Drive slowly and
carefully especially on inclined terrain or slippery surfaces.
Risk of tipping over - Keep loads close to ground while driving. Carrying heavy
loads ca
n shift the centre of gravity of the loader and lead to tipping over of the
loader. For the best stability always transport loads as low and close to the loader as
possible, with the telescopic boom completely retracted, to keep the centre of gravity
low.
Risk of crushing - Never go or allow anyone else to go under the loader boom
or attachment. The stability of the loader may change when leaving the driver’s seat,
leading to tipping over of the machine. Always remember that the boom may lower
unexpected
ly due to loss of stability, mechanical fault, or if another person operates
the controls of the loader, leading to crushing hazard. The loader is not intended to
be left to keep a load elevated for longer periods. Lower the attachment firmly on the
ground before leaving the driver's seat and never allow anyone to be under the boom
or attachment.
Keep the loader articulation in straight position when handling heavy loads. When
turning the articulation, the loader may tilt forward.

8 (26)
WARNING
Observe maximum load indicated in the operator’s manual of the loader. Be
especially careful when the load sensor indicator is activated, if your loader is fitted
with a load sensor system.
Make sure that the surface can bear the total load. Also follow the correct tyre
pressure settings.
Pay attention to the surroundings and any other persons and machines moving in the
vicinity. Other persons must keep safety distance of 5 meters. Pay attention to the
contours of the terrain and other hazards, such as branches and trees
that can reach
to the driver's area, loose rocks, and slippery surfaces.
Make sure that overhead clearance is sufficient. Hitting an overhead obstacle may
cause the loader to tip over. Keep a safe distance from electric cables, lamps, or
other electric systems; hitting live parts may cause electric shock.
Ensure that ventilation is sufficient when operating indoors. Do not operate the loader
in closed spaces regardless of the engine or fuel type. Exhaust gases may
concentrate to hazardous levels.
Never use the attachment to lift or to transport persons or as any kind of work
platform even temporarily.
Make sure to use only an attachment that is in good condition. Check the attachment
thoroughly in regular intervals. Do not modify the attachment
in a manner that would
affect its safety. It is prohibited to drill holes on the attachment, and welding or other
means of fixing hooks or other objects on the attachment is strictly prohibited.
Shut down the loader and place the attachment to a safe position as shown in Safe
stopping procedure before any cleaning, maintenance, or adjustments.
Use the attachment only for its intended purpose. Other use may create unnecessary
safety risks, and the equipment may get damaged.
Make sure that the loader is equipped with necessary safety components, and that
they are in working condition. Seat belt must be used. If there are specific hazards
related to the operating area, use appropriate safety equipment.
Also read the safety instructions and correct use of the loader from the operator's
manual of the loader.
DANGER
Risk of crushing -
Going under the loader boom or an attachment can cause
serious injury or death.
Never go under the loader boom and prevent others from
getting near lifted boom or at
tachment. Going under a raised attachment or loader boom
is dangerous, as the boom may lower due to loss of stability, mechanical fault or when
other person operates the controls of the loader. Lower the attachment firmly on the
ground to a safe position before leaving the driver’s seat.
Keep in mind that the loader boom can be lowered or tilted even if the engine has been
shut down (crushing hazard). The loader is not intended to be left to keep a load elevated
for longer periods. Always lower the attachme
nt to a safe position before leaving the
driver's seat.

9 (26)
WARNING
Risk of crushing -
Never allow anyone to get under a
lifted attachment or loader boom.
Keep in mind that the
loader boom can be lowered or tilted even if the engine has
been shut down (
crushing hazard). The loader is not intended
to be left to keep a load elevated for longer periods. Always
lower the attachment to a safe position before leaving the
driver's seat.
. ..
3.1 Personal protective equipment
Remember to wear proper personal protective equipment:

The noise level at the driver's seat may exceed 85 dB(A) depending on loader
model and operating cycle. Extended exposure to loud noise can cause
hearing impairment. Wear hearing protection while working with the loader.
Wear protective gloves.
Wear safety boots whenever working with the loader.
Wear safety glasses e.g. when handling hydraulic components.
When working at construction sites, a safety helmet is recommended and may
be mandatory in addition to the falling
objects protective structure (FOPS) on
the loader. Find out about other necessary safety equipment at your specific
work site.
. ..
3.2 Safe shutdown procedure
Safe stopping of the attachment, before going near the attachment:
WARNING
Always stop the at
tachment following safe stopping procedure before leaving
the driver's seat.
Safe stopping procedure prevents all unintentional movements of
the attachment. Note that the loader boom can move down even if the engine of the
loader is turned off. Safe stopping procedure:
Lower the boom and the attachment on the ground.
Shut down the loader engine and lock the parking brake.

Release residual pressure from the hydraulic system; move all hydraulic control
levers to their extreme positions a couple of times.
Prevent starting of the machine, remove ignition key.

Make sure the grapple is completely lowered before leaving the attachment
unattended.

10 (26)
4. Technical specifications
Table 2 - XL grapple bucket - Specifications
Product number A441963 A441946 A439086
Total width: 1300 mm 1450 mm 1600 mm
Maximum allowed load: 2000 kg 2000 kg 2000 kg
Weight: 270 kg 290 kg 310 kg
Number of tines: 8 9 10
Grapple operation: Hydraulic cylinders
Recommended hydraulic oil flow: 10-20 l/min
22,5 MPa (225 bar)
Maximum input of hydraulic energy: max 22,5 MPa (225 bar)
Suitable Avant loaders: See Table 1
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment
Listed below are the labels and markings on the attachment. They must be visible and readable on the
equipment. Replace any unclear or missing label. New labels are available via your retailer or contact
information provided on the cover.
WARNING
Make sure all warning decals are readable.
The warning labels contain important
safety information and they help to identify and
remember the hazards related to the
equipment. Replace damaged or missing warning labels with new ones.
Attachment identification plate
A441977 / A441958 / A440892
A46771 A46772 A46803
To apply a new label: Clean the surface thoroughly to remove all grease. Allow it to dry completely. Peel off
the protective film of the label and press firmly to apply. Take care not to touch the glue of the label.
.

11 (26)
Table 3 - Decal locations and warning messages
Decal Warning message
1 A46771 Misuse hazard -
Read instructions before
use.
2 A46772 Crushing hazard -
Do not go under a
raised attachment; stay away from raised
equipment.
3
A46803
Pinching and cutting hazard, keep clear
of moving parts, do not leave the
equipment running. Oper
ate the
attachment only from the driver’s seat.
4
A441977 /
A441958 /
A440892
Attachment identification plate
. ..
Table 4 - XL grapple bucket - Main components
1 Frame with Avant quick coupling brackets
2 Grapple
3 Grapple cylinder (2 pcs)
4 Cutting edge
5 Replaceable tine (8/9/10 pcs)
6 Removable side tine (2 pcs)
7 Multi connector holder

12 (26)
5. Attaching the attachment
Attaching the attachment to the loader is quick and easy, but it must be done carefully. The attachment is
mounted to the loader boom by using the quick attach plate on the loader boom and the counterpart on the
attachment.
If the attachment is not locked to the loader, it may detach from the loader and cause a hazardous situation.
The loader must not be driven and the boom must never be lifted when the attachment has not been locked.
To prevent hazardous situations, always follow the coupling procedure shown below. Also remember the
safety instructions shown in this manual. The attachment is mounted to the loader as follows:
WARNING
Crushing risk - Make sure that an unlocked attachment will not move or fall over.
Do not stay in the area between the attachment and the loader. Mount the attachment
only on level surface.
Never move or lift an attachment that has not been locked.
Avant quick coupling system:
Step 1:

Lift the quick attach plate locking pins up and turn them backwards into the slot
so that they are locked in the upper position.

If your loader is equipped with a hydraulic attachment locking system, see
additional instructions about the use of the locking system from the relevant
manuals.

Make sure that the hydraulic hoses are positioned so that they will not get in
between the coupling plate of the loader and the attachment, and that they will
not get squeezed or chafed against sharp edges.
Step 2:
Turn the quick attach plate hydraulically to an obliquely forward position.

Drive the loader onto the attachment. If your loader is equipped with a
telescopic boom, you can utilise this.
Align the upper p
ins of the loader’s quick coupling plate so that they are under
the corresponding brackets of the attachment.
Step 3:
Lift the boom slightly –
pull the boom control lever backward to raise the
attachment off the ground.
Turn the boom control lever le
ft to turn the bottom section of the quick attach
plate onto the attachment.
Lock the locking pins manually or lock the hydraulic locking.
Always check the locking of both locking pins.

13 (26)
WARNING
Risk of crushing - Avoid tipping over the attachment. E
xcessive tilting or lifting of an
unlocked attachment increases the risk of tipping the attachment over. Do not use the
automatic locking of the locking pins when the attachment is lifted more than one meter
from the ground. If the locking pins do not retu
rn to the normal position when tilting, do
not tilt or raise the attachment any more. Lower the attachment on the ground and
secure the locking manually.
WARNING
Risk of falling objects -
Prevent dropping of
attachment.
An attachment that has not been completely locked to the
loader may fall on the boom or towards the operator, or
fall under the loader during driving, causing loss of
control of the loader. Never move or lift an attachment
that has not been locked. Before moving or lifting the
attachm
ent, make sure that the locking pins are in the
lower position and come through the fasteners on the
attachment on both sides.
WARNING
Make sure the loader is compatible with the attachment.
Stability of the loader,
possible overload of the atta
chment, and compatibility of loader control systems must be
ensured in addition to mechanical compatibility of the attachment. If you use the
attachment with a loader that is not fit to be used with the attachment model you have,
risks include tipping over
, damage to attachment due to overload, and risks related to
uncontrolled motion of attachment and its parts. If your loader is not listed in Table 1 on
page 6, ask your Avant dealer before using this attachment.
5.1 Connecting and disconnecting hydraulic hoses
On Avant loaders the hydraulic hoses are connected using the multi connector system. If you have an Avant
300-700 series loader with the conventional quick couplers and wish to change to the multi connector system,
contact your Avant dealer or service point for instructions or installation services.
WARNING
Risk of movement of the attachment and ejection of hydraulic oil -
Never connect
or disconnect quick couplings or other hydraulic components while the control
lever of th
e auxiliary hydraulics control lever is locked on or if the system is
pressurized.
Connecting or disconnecting the hydraulic couplings while the system is
pressurized may lead to unintended movements of the attachment, or ejection of high-
pressure fluid, w
hich can cause serious injuries or burns. Follow safe stopping procedure
before disconnecting hydraulics.

14 (26)
Keep all fittings as clean as possible; use the protective caps on both the attachment and
the loader. Dirt, ice, etc. may make using the fitti
ngs significantly more difficult. Never
leave the hoses hanging on the ground; place the couplings onto the holder on the
attachment.
Connecting the multiconnector system:
1.
Align the pins of the attachment connector with corresponding
holes of the lo
ader connector. The multiconnector will not connect
if the attachment connector is upside down.
2.
Connect and lock the multiconnector by turning the lever towards
the loader.
The lever should move easily all the way to its locking position. If the lever does not slide smoothly, check the
alignment and position of the connector and clean the connectors. Also shut down the loader and release the
residual hydraulic pressure.
To disconnect the multiconnector system:
Before disconnecting put the attachment
down on a solid and even
surface.
1. Switch off the auxiliary hydraulics of the loader.
2.
While pushing unlock button, turn the lever to disconnect the
connector.
3.
After ending operation put the multiconnector on its holder on the
attachment.
Disconnecting hydraulic hoses:
Before disconnecting the fittings, lower the attachment to safe position on solid and level surface. Turn the
control lever of the auxiliary hydraulics to its neutral position.
When uncoupling the attachment, always disconnect the hydra
ulic couplings before
unlocking the quick coupling plate, to prevent hose damage and any oil spills. Reinstall
the protective caps on the fittings to prevent impurities from entering the hydraulic
system.
Releasing residual hydraulic pressure:
In case residual pressure is left in the hydraulic system of the attachment, it is often possible to disconnect the
hydraulic couplings, but it may be difficult to connect them the next time. If the fittings will not connect, the
residual pressure must be released by turning the auxiliary hydraulics control lever of the loader, when the
engine is turned off. To make sure that there will not be residual pressure in the hydraulic system of the
attachment, shut down the loader engine and move the auxiliary hydraulics control lever of the loader back
and forth before disconnecting the couplings.

15 (26)
6. Instructions for use
Check the attachment and the operating environment once more before starting to work, and that all obstacles
have been removed from the operating area. Quick inspection of the equipment and the operating area before
use are parts of ensuring safety and the best performance of the equipment.
WARNING
Risk of tipping over - Avoid overload.
Loader can tip over
when handling too heavy loads, or because of dynamic
movements caused by driving with and handling of a heavy
load. Do not extend the telescopic boom when the load
approaches the lifting capacity of the loader, or when the
loader boom is in horizontal position. When you notice that
the rear wheels of the loader are about to lift from the ground,
or if the load indicator of the loader (if fitted) signals:
Lower the load calmly and retract the telescopic boom
Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction whenever load is lifted
Use additional counterweights as needed
. ..
WARNING
Risk of falling from height and crushing under bucket or
loader -
Never use a bucket as a lifting platform or to
carry people.
Never use the loader or its attachments to lift
persons or as any kind of work platform even temporarily.
Never climb on the attachment.
Always lower the bucket on the ground before leaving the
driver's seat. The loader is not intended to hold loads lifted for
longer periods of time.
WARNING
Risk of crushing - The sharp tines of the attac
hment and
its grapple can cause serious injuries.
Make sure that
there are no other persons at the operating area and keep a
safe distance to persons or farm animals. Lower the grapple
before driving with the loader. Stop the loader following the
safe stopping procedure before going near the attachment.
.

16 (26)
6.1 Checks before use
Work can be started when the Grapple bucket has been mounted and the hydraulic fittings connected
according to the instructions. Check the attachment once more before starting work.
Check that hydraulic hoses will not get chafed, and that the grapple joints are lubricated.
Operate the equipment at well lit areas and make sure that ventilation is sufficient.
Remember correct working methods and avoid unnecessary descending from the loader.
Ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance when operating the equipment. Do not let anyone to
enter danger area of the boom or to stay directly in front of the loader. Also make sure that it is safe to
reverse with the loader. Never assume that bystanders will remain where you last saw them;
especially children are often attracted to the moving equipment.
Check the general condition of the attachment and the loader, and check for possible hydraulic oil
leaks. Do the daily checks of the loader, see the operator's manual of the loader. The attachment must
not be used, if there is a fault in the hydraulic system of the loader or the attachment. Refer to Chapter
7 for maintenance instructions.
Operate the attachment and the controls of the loader only when seated on the driver’s seat. Ensure
that the loader and the attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended. Do not allow children
to operate the equipment.
Never operate the loader or attachments while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication that
may impair judgement or cause drowsiness, or if not otherwise medically fit to operate the equipment.
Remember correct working methods and avoid leaving the driver’s seat unnecessarily.
. ..
6.1.1 Operator qualification
Anyone who intends to use the attachment must:
Know the intended use of the attachment.
Know how to use the loader safely in different operating conditions.
Read and always follow the instructions concerning the use of the attachment in this operator's
manual.
Have this manual and the operator's manual of the loader available.
Ensure that the loader and the attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended.
Never allow children to operate the equipment.
Never operate the loader or attachments while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication that
may impair judgement or cause drowsiness, or if not otherwise medically fit to operate the equipment.
Complete any possible mandatory training required by the employer before use.
.

17 (26)
6.2 Operating the XL grapple bucket
WARNING
Risk of serious personal injuries -
Ensure that there are no other persons near the
operating area.
Do not allow others closer than 5 metres form the grab, to the boom
danger area, or directly in front or back of the loader. Move carefully and calmly near
persons or farm animals. Also make sure that it is safe to reverse with the loader.
Before using the Grapple bucket for the first time, check that the hydraulic hoses are
positioned so, that you can move the loader boom and the grapple to all positions.
Controlling the bucket:
Move the auxiliary
hydraulics control lever
towards its locking
position (or use the
electric buttons of the
optional electric joystick)
to lower the grapple.
The lever should not be
left to the locking
position.
Move the lever away
from the locking position
to raise the grapple.

18 (26)
Use the bucket in similar way as normal
bucket. Secure the objects by lowering the
hydraulic grapple tight on the load as
shown in the adjacent figure. The strong
XL grapple keeps
the material stationary in
the bucket during transport.
Keep the material being transported as
close to the loader and as low as possible.
When transporting objects with the Grapple
bucket, ensure, that the load is secured on
the bucket.
6.3 Using a bucket
Correct working method is important when lifting material from a pile, as lifting material from a pile requires the
most power from the loader. Use high engine rpm and read the instructions how to operate the loader
correctly from the operator’s manual of the loader.
Filling a bucket by pushing towards a pile of heavy material and then trying to lift or tilt the bucket is not
possible with any loader type. The most effective way to fill a bucket is to push only the tip of the bucket into a
pile, and then material is cut into the bucket by simultaneous driving, lifting and tilting of the bucket, as
illustrated in the following figures. The same basic technique is also applicable when digging material from
ground.
1
Drive slowly, using moderate
to high engine rpm.

Once the tip of the bucket is
in the pile, begin to tilt the
bucket.
2
Scoop the bucket full by
simultaneous driving forward,
tilting, and lifting the bucket.

19 (26)
3
Once the bucket is almost full,
lift the bucket with loader
boom.
Keep driving slowly forward.
CAUTION
Keep the loader stable. Always
transport the bucket as low and
close to the ground as possible. Lift
only at unloading location. Keep the
telescopic boom retracted during
drive.
WARNING
Risk of sudden stop - Drive slow when bucket is placed against the ground
. Avoid
hazards related to sudden stopping of the loader. Hitting an obstacle will stop the loader
suddenly, for example in snow clearing work. Check the operating area before operation
and use the seat belt.
If the loader is not equipped with the boom self levelling:
WARNING
Prevent material from falling on you - Monitor the position of the bucket. When
lifting material to a high level, the quick coupling plate must be simultaneously tilted to
preven
t the load from falling from on the loader or the operator. Fitting the loader with the
boom self levelling option makes repeated loading work easier.
WARNING
Avoid sudden loss of stability - Never drag loads from e.g. a shelf.
If the load that
you
want to lift from height is too heavy, the loader can tip forward when reversing with
the loader. Never reverse and drag with the loader before making sure that the loader
can handle the load that is being lifted.
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6.4 Material handling
Use maximum load indicated in the diagram of the operator’s manual of the loader as a guideline. Remember
that the actual load carrying capacity varies according to operating conditions, especially unevenness of
operating area has a great effect. Be especially careful when the load sensor indicator is activated. Also,
make sure that the ground surface is firm and follow recommended tire pressures.
WARNING
Risk of tipping over -
Avoid overload and keep heavy load close to the loader. Keep
loads close to the ground whe
never driving, especially during turns and uneven
terrain.
Pay attention that a heavy load or long distance between the loader and the
centre of gravity of the load will affect the balance and handling of the loader. The use of
additional counterweights is
recommended especially when operating smaller loader
models. For 200 series loader the wheel weights are recommended. With heavy loads,
the telescopic boom must be kept retracted while moving with the loader. Always wear
seat belt.
The information shown in Table 5 can be used to estimate the weight of the load and to avoid too heavy loads.
The values shown in table are intended to serve as general guidelines. Actual material densities may vary
greatly according to factors such as moisture content and compactness of the material.
Table 5 - Typical material densities
Material Density of material, (indicative),
kg / l (t / m³)
Snow 0,2 - 0,8 Example:
General bucket A36709 (volume 220 l, empty
weight 78 kg) is filled with gravel.
The weight of the load, de
pending on the actual
density of the material, is roughly between 1,7 *
220 +79 = 450 kg and 1,9 * 220 + 79 = 500 kg.
The load carrying capacity must be estimated by
taking in account the compactness of the material
and the evenness of the load
Wood chips 0,15 - 0,3
Wood pellet ~ 0,65
Peat 0,4 - 0,7
Soil 1,5 - 1,8
Gravel 1,7 - 1,9
Sand 1,5 - 2
Concrete, dry 1,7 – 2,5
Crushed rock 1,65 - 2,6
6.5 Working on uneven ground
Extra caution is needed when using the equipment on inclined terrains and slopes. Drive slowly especially on
inclined, uneven, or slippery surfaces, and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. Operate the controls
of the loader with careful and smooth movements. Watch out for ditches, holes on the ground, and other
obstacles, as hitting an obstacle may cause the loader to tip over.
Maximum lifting capacity can not be achieved on inclined terrain. On horizontally tilted terrain the load must
not be lifted high. The loader frame articulation should be kept straight when lifting heavy loads; turning the
load during lifting operation will affect the stability of the loader and may lead to overturning of the machine.