Attendees at the Great Lakes Logging and Heavy Equipment Expo in Escanaba, Mich., had the opportunity to participate in the Barko Strong-Arm Skill Challenge.

Attendees at the Great Lakes Logging and Heavy Equipment Expo in Escanaba, Mich., had the opportunity to participate in the Barko Strong-Arm Skill Challenge.

Operators ran a Barko 295B trailer mount loader equipped with a brand new Barko 4850 strong-arm grapple to race against the clock in a log stacking competition. The five forestry professionals awarded prizes for the fastest finishing times were:

• Bill Zellar — 1st Place: 1 minute, 59 seconds (1:59)

• Russell Meyers — 2nd Place: 2:01

• Eric Zellar — 3rd Place: 2:02

• Dillon Meyers — 4th Place: 2:10

• Brian McCumber — 5th Place: 2:14

The event marked the official debut of Barko's strong-arm grapples. Designed to optimize the performance of Barko B-Series loaders, the grapples deliver superior rotator torque, clamping force and arm speed. The Strong-Arm lineup consists of three models — the 4250, 4850 and 5250 grapples have maximum openings of 42.0, 48.1 and 52.1 in. (106.6, 122 and 132 cm), respectively, with each rated for up to 50,000 lb. (22,680 kg) of lift capacity.

Engineered for seamless integration with Barko loaders, the grapples offer powerful rotation torque and clamping force. A compact rotator allows for hoses to be contained in a single bundle between the boom and grapple, providing better hose protection. Other features include 360-degree continuous rotation and a fully supported rotator drive pinion gear.

The hydraulic motor is designed to maximize hydraulic flow, making each grapple fast and productive, according to the manufacturer. The grapples are constructed of high tensile, wear-resistant steel and include hard face welding on the arm tips to extend working life. Thoroughly tested for quality, the grapples offer an 18-month warranty with unlimited hours.

For more information, call 715/395-6700 or visit www.barko.com.

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