Boom Dump Truck: repair or replace boom?
I searched the internet on the subject of grapple boom trucks, and it seems this discussion really fits where I'm at right now.
I have a mid-size dump truck with a Tico knuckle boom. The boom does not have a grapple, and, recently, some gears broke inside so that it does not move side to side (it did move 360 degrees - full circle). Anyway, I use the boom to load logs with tongs onto the truck, and want to somehow either set up a grapple on the boom with a quick connect/disconnect, so I can put away the boom behind the cab, or get another boom. I'm debating, whether it's worth fixing the boom I presently have, and buying and figuring out how to set up a grapple on it, etc., or if another used boom with a grapple would be a better choice. I also want to use the grapple to load brush, and especially larger rocks.
Just today I came across an old truck that runs with a smaller boom/loader/grapple set up on the back of it. Might be able to get it for $2500/$3000. The boom hydraulics are powered by a John Deere motor (I think...) that's supposedly in pretty good shape. Anyway, any input would be appreciated.