A LOADER extension is now available from a major manufacturer. 

TMK's latest kit is said to be one of its customers' most-requested features, offering additional loading capabilities. Boasting an "easy to control" grapple arm, the loader extension can be operated directly from a separate hydraulic circuit, or, alternatively, from the same hydraulic circuit guiding a tree shear. 

Initially announced as part of a trio of planned products from the Finland-based firm for 2024 (which also included a new blade), the loader extension is available in either a solid format or with a tilt. 

A statement from TMK added: "Grapple geometry has been designed so that grabbing and handling large tree stacks is easy even in tight spaces.

"But it doesn’t end there. You get much more than just loading capabilities with the loader extension. It gives extra reach for the tree shear and makes it possible to further utilise a tiltrotator and, for example, make cuts behind trees and make piles on the sides without moving the machine. 

"It also serves as a very sturdy heel that you can use to nudge rocks or trees that are in the way and support the machine when moving."

The solid version of the loader extension can be retrofitted to any existing TMK 300 or 400 model. 

"If you want to go to the next level you can choose the loader extension with a tilt," TMK's statement continued. "This thing is a very different beast and it unlocks a whole new level to your working, especially when used in conjunction with a tiltrotator. 

Forestry Journal: The loader extension is available in a solid format or with a tilt The loader extension is available in a solid format or with a tilt (Image: Supplied)

"You can reach higher, further and closer with the shear being in optimal position for cutting and delimbing, thanks to the geometry and the tilting action of the loader extension. 

"Tilting motion happens with the help of a much smaller cylinder than the excavators own bucket cylinder, making it much quicker and more fuel efficient than using the whole boom structure of the excavator."