PADDOCK EXCAVATOR
GRAPPLE ATTACHMENT
P/N – SPEXGRAP
User and Maintenance Manual

WARNING
Read and understand operator’s manual before using this equipment.
Failure to follow operating instructions could result in death or serious injury.

INTRODUCTION

Paddock equipment is built to make light work of the toughest jobs. Quality components and smart engineering design delivers high performance attachments. Paddock offer a full range of attachments for trenching, auguring, rock breaking and bulk materials transfer.
Congratulations and thank you for choosing the Paddock Excavator Grapple. This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides critical safety information and operating instructions to help you use and maintain your excavator safely and correctly.
NOTE: This manual is in addition to the Excavator manual. The Excavator manual must be adhered too at all times.
The grapple attachment can be used for picking up vegetation including branches, trees, logs, bails of hay and much more. The actuating grapple fingers are actuated so can be closed around objects allowing the power of hydraulics to lift and load materials into trucks and trailers with ease.;

• Strong steel construction provides a long service life
• Options to fit Series 10/15/17/25 Paddock Excavators
• Hydraulically actuated grapple fingers
• 1yr warranty from an established Australian business

The Grapple attachment makes certain tasks fast and greatly expands the capabilities of the common excavator. Having the ability to grip, lift and place objects is a game changer for landscapers needing to clear scrub and general waste.
The Grapple attachment doesn’t utilise the quick hitch attachment design and rather replaces this by connecting directly to the excavator arm. The bucket ram is repurposed and attaches directly to the Grapple to provide the actuating functionality. Fitting the Grapple does take about 5-10 mins as it involves removing and refitting the pins at the grapple attachment. The time spent fitting the grapple is recovered in operator efficiency as having the correct attachment for the task being performed is vital to efficient operation.
Don’t Compromise Quality
When working with machinery, equipment quality should not be compromised, cheap copy machines breakdown costing you money. Paddock only use the highest quality materials making them a machine for life.
QUICK COUPLING AND AUXILIARY HYDRAULICS STANDARD
The excavators by Paddock™ feature and include as standard a simple and reliable quick hitch design. This design makes it fast for the operator to loosen the hitch and switch between attachments without having to hammer out pins. The design means switching between a ripper and a larger batter bucket is time efficient and realistic during normal operation.

SPECIFICATIONS

SPEXGRAP

Suites	Series 10/17 Excavators
Connection	Pins and repurposing of existing bucket ram
Warranty	1yr

EXCAVATOR GRAPPLE

PLEASE NOTE:

• Read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine attachments.
• Please understand and regular review of this manual to help ensure safe, efficient, and long-lasting use of your attachments.

SAFETY OPERATION

SAFETY IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OPERATOR
WARNING – Before operating or maintaining the excavator, it is essential to follow all safety operation instructions. Read and understand the operator’s manual, all safety labels, and decals on the machine.
All repairs, adjustments, maintenance, and operational checks must be carried out strictly in accordance with the manual.
Failure to comply may result in serious injury or death.
TRAINING RECOMMENDATION
This manual does not replace hands-on training. Operators are strongly encouraged to undergo third-party machinery training to ensure safe and competent operation.
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Most accidents can be prevented by following these basic rules:

• Read and understand all safety messages in this manual and on the excavator.
• Familiarize yourself with the controls, fuelling, and maintenance procedures.
• Comply with all operational and maintenance rules at all times.
• Never refuel a hot machine.

SAFETY SYMBOLS

• CAUTION – Take precautions to avoid minor or moderate injury.
• WARNING – Indicates a hazardous situation that may result in serious injury or death.
• DANGER – Indicates an immediate hazard that will result in death or serious injury if not avoided.
• NOTE – Highlights instructions to prevent machine damage or ensure best practice.

All symbols appear in the manual and on the excavator’s safety labels.
BEFORE FIRST USE

• Each excavator is fully tested and inspected before delivery. During the first 100 hours, operate with extra care to ensure a proper break-in period.

INITIAL OPERATION GUIDELINES:

• Warm up the machine for at least 5 minutes.
• Avoid full-speed operation early on.
• Minimize rapid acceleration, hard stops, or sharp turning.
• Regularly inspect filter elements based on work environment.
• Conduct a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) before starting work.
• Monitor the hour meter for scheduled maintenance intervals.

SAFETY LABELS AND DECALS
Excavators are equipped with clearly visible warning decals. These must be understood and never removed or defaced.
EXAMPLES OF DECALS:

• DANGER: Imminent hazard – will cause injury or death if ignored.
• WARNING: Potential hazard – may cause serious injury or death.
• NOTE: Advisory – follow instructions to avoid attachment damage.

ALWAYS REMEMBER

• All warnings exist for your safety.
• Never ignore a label, alarm, or safety notice.
• Stay alert. Work safe.

SAFETY – GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
You are responsible for adhering to all relevant safety regulations and legal requirements set by governing authorities. Always operate, inspect, and maintain machinery in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Many accidents are caused by a failure to follow basic safety procedures. Most incidents can be prevented by identifying potential hazards ahead of time.
BEFORE OPERATING THE MACHINE:

• Carefully read and understand all safety information.
• Ensure you are fully trained in the correct operation, inspection, and maintenance of the attachments.
• Do not operate the machine unless you are confident in doing so safely and correctly.

COMPLIANCE WITH ALL SAFETY REGULATIONS
Only trained and qualified personnel are permitted to operate, inspect, or maintain this machine.
During all machine operations, inspections, and maintenance activities, all applicable rules, regulations, precautions, and safety measures must be fully understood and strictly followed.
Do not operate, inspect, or maintain the machine under the influence of:

• Alcohol or drugs
• Extreme fatigue
• Lack of sufficient sleep

HANDLING ABNORMAL CONDITIONS
If any abnormalities are detected during operation or maintenance — such as:

• Unusual noise or vibration
• Strange odours
• Oil leakage
• Error alarms

Immediately stop operation and contact the appropriate sales or service agent. Do not resume operation until the issue has been properly identified and resolved.

WEAR SUITABLE CLOTHING AND PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

To ensure personal safety and prevent accidents in the workplace, follow these clothing and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) guidelines:
AVOID UNSAFE CLOTHING

• Do not wear loose clothing or accessories that could get caught in moving parts or control levers.
• Avoid clothing stained with oil or fuel, as it is highly flammable.

WEAR APPROPRIATE PROTECTIVE GEAR

• Based on your work environment and tasks, the following PPE should be worn:
• Safety shoes – to protect feet from falling objects and sharp items.
• Safety helmet – to prevent head injuries.
• Safety glasses or goggles – to protect eyes from dust, debris, or chemical splashes.
• Filter masks or respirators – especially when working in dusty or fume-filled environments.
• Thick gloves – for handling sharp, hot, or hazardous materials.
• Ear protectors or earplugs – when working in noisy areas to prevent hearing damage.

TASK-SPECIFIC PROTECTION

• When using tools like grinders, jackhammers, or compressed air, always wear:
• Safety spectacles to guard against flying particles.
• Filter masks to protect from dust and fumes.

NOISE PROTECTION

• Use hearing protection when operating loud machinery.
• Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss.

BE CAREFUL TO AVOID CRUSHING INJURIES

Serious injury or death can occur if body parts are caught between moving components. Always stay alert and follow these precautions:DO NOT PLACE HANDS, FEET, OR BODY PARTS:

• Between the machine body and the undercarriage or tracks
• Between the machine frame and working attachments
• Between the hydraulic cylinders and surrounding parts
• Between any moving or pivoting components

WHY IT’S DANGEROUS:

• As the machine operates, gaps can suddenly close due to movement or hydraulic action.
• What seems like a safe space can quickly become a crushing point.

STAY SAFE BY:

• Staying clear of pinch points and moving parts at all times.
• Ensuring no one is in the danger zone before operating any machinery.
• Using lockout/tagout procedures when performing maintenance.

USE OF OPTIONAL PRODUCTS

• Before installing any optional products or attachments, consult our company to ensure compatibility and safety.
• Depending on the type or combination of attachments, some may come into contact with parts of the cab or other machine components.
• Always confirm that attachments are secure and free of interference with other parts before use.
• Do not use any accessories or attachments that have not been approved by our company.
• Using unauthorized products may compromise safety, reduce operating efficiency, or shorten the machine’s service life.
• Our company accepts no responsibility for injuries, accidents, or machine damage resulting from the use of non-approved accessories.

DO NOT MODIFY THE MACHINE

• Unauthorized modifications to the machine can result in serious injury or death.
• Never attempt to modify, alter, or transform any part of the machine without formal approval from the manufacturer.
• Unauthorized modifications may also void the warranty and compromise compliance

PRECAUTIONS BEFORE OPERATION

UNDERSTAND THE WORK AREA
Before beginning any operation, it is essential to assess the work area for safety. This includes:

• Inspecting terrain and ground conditions to identify any instability or risk.
• For indoor operations, review the building structure and take necessary precautions.
• Identify and avoid hazards such as:
  • Gutters
  • Underground pipelines
  • Trees or stumps
  • Cliffs or steep slopes
  • Overhead power lines
  • Landslide-prone or unstable areas

COORDINATE WITH SITE ADMINISTRATORS

• Check the location of buried utilities such as gas lines, water pipes, and power cables.
• Consult with the site administrator when needed and establish any required safety measures prior to beginning work.

ROADSIDE OPERATION

• Prioritize the safety of pedestrians and vehicles during road work.
• Use signage, signals, or designated flaggers to warn and direct traffic.
• Prevent access by unauthorized personnel to the operation area with proper barricades and signage.

OPERATION IN OR NEAR WATER

• When operating in shallow water or near water bodies, check:
  • Water depth
  • Ground firmness
  • Water flow speed

Ensure the area is stable and safe before proceeding.
BRIDGE AND STRUCTURE SAFETY

• Before crossing a bridge or elevated structure, confirm the load capacity is suitable for the machine.
• If necessary, reinforce the bridge or structure to ensure safe passage

KEEP THE MACHINE CLEAN AT ALL TIMES

Maintaining cleanliness is essential for safe and efficient operation. Follow these precautions to reduce the risk of accidents or damage:
PREVENT SLIPS AND FALLS

• Immediately wipe away any lubricating oil, grease, mud, snow, or ice from walkways, steps, and handholds to prevent slipping hazards.

REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS

• Clear out all loose tools, parts, and unnecessary devices from inside and around the machine.
• Keep the operator’s seat and foot area clean and free of clutter to ensure safe and unobstructed operation.

PREVENT FIRE HAZARDS

•  Clean off dust, oil, and grease from engine components, wiring, and exhaust areas.• Regular cleaning reduces the risk of overheating or fire caused by buildup of flammable materials.

DAILY INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

• Always perform the required daily inspections before starting the machine.
• Identify and repair any issues immediately. Failure to do so may lead to accidents or equipment failure.
• If the machine becomes inoperable or the engine fails:
  • Shut down the machine following the proper shutdown procedure.
  • Ensure the machine is safely parked and secured until repairs are completed.

SAFETY IN THE DRIVER’S CAB

• Before entering the cab, clean dirt, grease, or mud from your shoes.
  • Contaminants on footwear can cause slipping on pedals, leading to accidents.
• Do not place tools, parts, or personal items around the operator’s seat.
• Avoid bringing plastic bottles or attaching suction cups inside the cab.
  •  These can act as magnifying lenses, creating a fire hazard if exposed to sunlight.

SAFE ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURES

• Always use the three-point contact method (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) when mounting or dismounting the machine.
• Do not jump on or off the machine and never attempt to board or exit a moving machine.
• When opening the cab door:
  • First lock it securely in the open position.
  • Check and confirm the door is stable and cannot swing shut.
• Use only the designated steps and handrails to climb on or off the machine.
  • Do not use control levers or rods for support.

PRE-START SAFETY CHECKS

To ensure the safety of all personnel, follow these steps before starting the machine: 1. CLEAR THE AREA

• Ensure all unauthorized personnel have left the work zone before starting the  machine.
• Walk around the machine and visually inspect the surroundings.
• Warn nearby maintenance staff or pedestrians to move away from the machine.

Do not start the machine until the area is confirmed clear.
2. INSPECT FOR WARNING SIGNS

• Check the cab, controls, and ignition switch for any warning tags or signs such as:
  • “Caution”
  • “Do Not Operate”
• If any warning sign is present:
  • Do not start the engine.
  • Do not touch any control levers or joysticks.
  • Report to a supervisor or maintenance personnel.

COLD WEATHER SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
When operating in cold climates, take extra precautions:

• Be alert for frozen or slippery surfaces on the ground, pedals, and handholds.
• Do not touch metal parts with bare hands in extremely cold temperatures — skin can freeze to the metal, causing serious injury.
• Never use ether or starting fluid to start the engine.

USE OF STARTING FLUID CAN LEAD TO EXPLOSION, SEVERE INJURY, OR  DEATH.

• Ensure adequate preheating of the engine and hydraulic system before operation.
  • Operating without proper preheat may result in machine malfunction or accident.

OPERATION GUIDE

Read this manual before using the excavator. Take care within the first 100 hours.
FOR NEW EXCAVATORS:
Excavators have a 100-hour run-in period designed to enhance their performance and extend service life. During this period, new excavator s should be operated according to the following three steps.

Hours	Load
Within 10 hours	About 60%
Within 100 hours	About 80%
After 100 hours	100%

DAILY CHECKS:

• Engine cooling system for leaks or damage
• Tyres and tyre pressure / Track Tension
• Any loose or damaged parts
• Safety decals & labelling
• Control station
• Check level of engine oil, hydraulic oil, fuel and look for any leaks.
• Check the lubricating oil regularly and replenish.
• Check gauges and lights when running.
• Check if excavator is working well when running.
• Add grease to lubricating points every day.
• Check for bolts which may have vibrated loose.

WHEN THE MACHINE IS FOUND TO BE ABNORMAL
If any abnormalities are detected during the operation, inspection, or maintenance of the machine — such as unusual noise, vibration, odours, oil leakage, or error alarms — stop using the machine immediately. Notify the sales or service agent without delay and take appropriate corrective measures.
Do not resume operation until the issue has been fully resolved.

SAFETY DRIVE

CAUTION: Match your driving speed to the condition
The excavator s centre balance point changes when lifting and lowering the arms and attachments, take care especially if operating on slopes. Keep the excavator on level  ground when operating and turning. Lower lift arms entirely when moving and lift bucket to proper height, to avoid obstacles.
DANGER – TAKE CARE TO LOWER OPERATING SPEED IF ARMS ARE RAISED.
AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN DIRECTION AS THIS CAN CAUSE A ROLL OVER.
WARNING: This product manual can’t teach you how to safely operate a complex excavator. Users should consider undergoing training by a 3rd party provider who specialises in small machinery prior to operation.
Avoid overloading the excavator as this has potential to bend the excavator s hitch plate. Examples of ways to overload the excavator are as follows:

CONNECTING ATTACHMENTS

ONLY USE APPROVED PARTS:

• Always use manufacturer-approved parts and accessories to ensure the machine operates safely and efficiently.
• Non-approved parts may compromise the integrity of the machine, leading to potential malfunctions, safety hazards, or voiding of warranties.

RISKS OF USING NON-APPROVED PARTS:

• Reduced machine performance and efficiency.
• Increased wear and tear, potentially shortening the machine’s lifespan.
• Increased risk of accidents or injuries.

REMOVING THE EXISTING ATTACHMENT
Note: This section provides general guidance for removing the existing attachment from your excavator. For specific procedures, always refer to your excavator’s and attachment’s operator manuals.
PROCEDURE

1. Start the excavator using the standard starting procedure outlined in your operator’s manual.
2. Position the machine on level ground. Align the boom horizontally and the arm vertically. Lower the attachment gently so it rests fully on the ground, as illustrated.
3. Shut off the engine completely and remove the key.
4. Allow the system to cool. Wait until the engine and hydraulic oil return to ambient temperature before continuing.
5. Remove the securing bolts from the two pins that connect the attachment to the excavator.
6. Tap out the pins carefully using a hammer. Ensure the pins are kept clean and undamaged for future use.
7. Restart the engine. Slowly raise the boom to detach and move away from the released attachment.

ATTACHING THE GRAPPLE
MPORTANT: This procedure involves heavy components. Always use appropriate lifting equipment or multiple people to prevent injury. Refer to your excavator and grapple manuals for specific compatibility and torque settings.

PROCEDURE

1. Remove the hinge pins:
   o Take out the upper hinge pin along with its nut.
   o Remove the lower hinge pin along with its bolt and nut from the grapple.
2. Position the grapple upright on a level surface using a hoist or at least two people to ensure stability.
3. Start the excavator following standard start-up protocols.
4. Drive the excavator slowly toward the rear of the grapple.
5. Align the mount points:
   o Use the boom and arm controls to align the upper hinge pin holes of the grapple with the eye of the excavator’s arm cylinder.
6. Align the lower hinge pin holes with the mount hole on the bottom of the excavator’s arm.
7. Shut off the engine and remove the key before inserting pins.
8. Install the upper hinge pin:
   o Insert the previously removed upper hinge pin through the link holes, grapple’s hinge pin holes, and the eye of the arm cylinder.
   o Secure with the nut.
9. Install the lower hinge pin:
   o Insert the lower hinge pin through the aligned holes at the base of the grapple and the arm.
   o Secure with the bolt and nut.
10. Restart the engine and test the grapple function by opening and closing the jaws to ensure smooth and secure operation.

MAINTENANCE

ALWAYS lower the grapple to the ground and shut off the engine before any maintenance
CAUTION: If you leave the key in the ignition switch, the engine may accidentally start, potentially causing serious injury to yourself or others nearby.
Before performing any maintenance, turn off the engine, remove the key from the ignition, and disconnect both the hydraulic and electrical connections between the attachment and the engine.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES

• Clean regularly: Remove all mud, dirt, and debris from the grapple to ensure optimal operation and prevent buildup.
• Lubricate moving parts:
  Use a general-purpose lithium-based grease and a grease gun to lubricate all pivot points every 10 hours of operation — or more often during heavy use.
• Prevent corrosion:
  Apply a light coating of oil to all exposed metal surfaces to inhibit rust.
• Check fasteners:
  Periodically inspect bolts, nuts, and other fasteners. Retighten as necessary to maintain structural integrity.
• Touch up paint:
  Repaint any areas where paint is worn or scratched to help prevent rust and prolong the life of the equipment.
• Inspect for damage:
  Look for any signs of wear, breakage, or deformation. Repair or replace damaged components immediately.
• Proper disposal:
  Dispose of waste materials and used parts according to local environmental and safety regulations.

STORAGE

– Before long-term storage, clean the attachment to remove dirt.
– Check the condition of the Attachment. Replace or repair any worn or damaged parts.
– Lubricate the required components.
– Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair or replace any damaged or worn parts.
– Ensure all hydraulic couplings are connected to prevent contamination of the hydraulic system.
– Spray anti-rust oil on scratched or exposed metal surfaces and coat the wheel with rust preventive oil.
– Store the attachments in a clean, dry garage or storage area.
– Cover the attachments to protect it and keep it clean.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS – 12 months or 1,000hrs (whichever comes first) from date of purchase.
EXCLUSIONS – Normal wearing parts and consumables are not covered by warranty. Examples include: oil filters, oil, muffler, belts, chains, cutting teeth, blades, tires, tracks, sprockets. Attachments damaged, misused, not maintained, adjusted incorrectly, effected by fire, rain, accident or flood will not be covered by warranty.

SUPPORT INFORMATION

SALES ENQUIRIES:
P: 1300 246 406
E: info@paddockmachinery.com
SUPPORT REQUESTS
Via the website support request – www.paddockmachinery.com

ADDRESS:
47 Eagleview Place, Eagle Farm QLD 4009, Australia

PADDOCK EXCAVATOR GRAPPLE
ATTACHMENT – SPEXGRAP

Documents / Resources

PADDOCK P-N - SPEXGRAP Grapple Attachment Paddock Excavator [pdf] Instruction Manual P-N SPEXGRAP, P-N SPEXGRAP Grapple Attachment Paddock Excavator, Grapple Attachment Paddock Excavator, Attachment Paddock Excavator, Paddock Excavator

References

• User Manual