Metal choice

[Kentuckyfarmer]

I need to build a root grapple for my skid loader, most of the comercial ones are made from t-1 or ar-400. Any thoughts on which one is the better choice. Both are avail localy there is not a great amount of price diff.
If I understand this corect t-1 is stouter ? wont bend as easy, ar 400 will resist wear from contact with the earth, I do not know how strong ar is.
For my project strength is more important than wear for the most part.
Any thoughts from someone who has used both.
Thanks
Mike

[Sampson Jones]

Use regular mild steel. A root grapple will not be exposed to constant abrasion. T 1 is for dozer blades, buckets etc.

[WSS]

T-1 is a structural steel used in bridges mostly. It has a higher tensile strength over A36 and AR400, but AR400 has enough tensile to not bend as easily as A36 (mild). AR400 is formable and anneal-able if needed but will last about 8 times longer than A36 in the dirt, abrasion wise. If you structure A36 right, it can be used and then hardface the wear areas. Probably cost less too.

2 pennies

WSS
(Wear Surface Specialists)

[Kentuckyfarmer]

Thanks, I can get ar 400 for .90 a pound a 4x8 x1/2 of t-1 was over 800.00, I know the mild steel will not wear out it is a strength issue more than wear.
Thanks for any and all input.
I know some deal with this on a day to day basis
Mike

[WSS]

Are you saying you can get a sheet of 4x8x.5 AR400 for $590? That is a good deal. I am paying $1.19 lb for 400 and 500. Usually T-1 is less. I would go for the 400 at that price. Mild over here is going for $.70 lb.

[Kentuckyfarmer]

Yea Tommy that is correct a large supply house down in the country buys in 8x20 sheets and cuts it into smaller sheets that is remnat price but large pieces are not a problem
Mike