Here you will find the most frequently asked questions concerning the use and optimal operation of your GMT grapple saw.
If you experience any problems during use or need personal support, please contact us personally.
Table of contents
Let’s start with the basics. Watch the videos below to get an idea of how GMT grapple saws work.
You can see, among other things, how the grapple saw can rotate and move, and which joystick actions lead to which movements of the grapple saw. There are two videos differentiating between the basic grapple saws (GMT035 & GMT050) and the two grapple saws with the TTC system (GMT035 TTC & GMT050 TTC).
GMT035 and GMT050
GMT035 TTC and GMT050 TTC
Do you want to learn more? Be sure to check out our tips and tricks! Download the tips & tricks PDF
The video below shows a great example on how to make the most of your GMT grapple saw in city areas.
The first part of the video shows a tree felling job close to a house and a parked car. By making use of the fact that the GMT grapple saw can be moved around the tree to make cuts from various sides, the operator is able to control the felling direction and prevent damage to surrounding objects. This way, felling tree branches in urban areas is no issue anymore.
The second part of the video gives you a good step-by-step overview on how to remove a tree with the GMT grapple saw. Working from top to bottom, cutting pieces that fit directly in the container, always keeping the tree balanced.
During winter conditions, you might face some difficulties in operating your grapple saw due to thick oil. Warming up of the oil should help you to get started smoothly. Warm up your grapple saw by operating the grapple open-function at 100% and rotating the machine for several minutes with the rotator. Do NOT use grapple close and saw function! (Saw function is only designed for a single cut, not for continuously running, due to the size of the accumulator.)
The greatest danger involves underestimating the weight of the tree or branch being cut. You can read how to estimate the weight on this page. You will also find a number of other handy tips and rules of thumb there.
Do you have other questions? Get in touch!
Always take maximum load of the grapple saw and the carrying vehicle into account before performing a multiple cut on bigger tree parts.
It is possible to cut bigger tree parts by making a double or even a triple cut. To do this, you have to be able approach the tree from both sides to ensure a clean and complete cut. The second cut should be at the same height or a little bit higher to prevent the saw from jamming. The maximum possible tree diameters with a double cut are:
This video is a perfect example on how to fell a tree safely and efficiently, including when performing a multiple cut (1:55).
During tree work, you might need a normal wood grapple sometimes. For example, when loading and unloading your truck or feeding your chipper. To save time you don't want to change your machine or attachment. What is the best thing to do?
Option 1 is to operate the grapple close function carefully so the saw won't come out. Chances are high that you will damage your saw bar and chain by mistake.
Option 2 is to shut off the saw function completely so you don't have to worry about the saw function being activated. At the side of the saw casing is a valve which feeds oil to the saw motor. Simply close this valve and continue your work as with a normal wood grapple.
As with any hydraulic system, contamination of hydraulic fluids should be avoided. When changing your grapple saw with other attachments, please keep the hydraulic couplings clean and cover them with the contamination covers delivered with your GMT grapple saw set.
Still have questions? Get in touch!
We can offer training according to your wishes. Please contact us for this.
We hear from our customers that after a day's work with the grapple saw, they have mastered all the functions. Do you want references? Please let us know, we can put you in touch with customers who have been using the grapple saw for a long time.
Yes, anyone who can operate a crane with a grapple can also operate a GMT equipment grapple saw.
Do you want to know more? At GMT Equipment, we value personal attention and support. So please feel free to contact us. Then we will speak to you personally, in the way that is most convenient for you.
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