Advice needed: buying a used Iron Mule 400

[ch4rl3st0n_45]

Hey all, I just joined but I've been following for a while.. thought I'd get some advice here.

A local guy has a used Iron Mule 400 for sale and I'm thinking about going to take a look at it. I've been wanting to get a dedicated piece of equipment for logging my own ten acres, mostly thinning out some stands and cleaning up the woods, and this seems like it might fit the bill. I'd use it alongside my small tractor with a three-point grapple for the bigger stuff. I'm also hoping to do a few small local jobs for firewood sales and this could be a huge help.

I still have to make a closer inspection but the owner says it has an updated modern bypass grapple, which is a big plus. I was hoping to hear from anyone who has experience with these machines, specifically the 400 model. Are there any common issues I should look out for when I go to see it? Any specific things to check on the engine, hydraulics, or boom?? I want to be as informed as possible before I make a decision. Thanks in advance for your insights!!

 

[12three]

Check the engine for leaks and smooth running, inspect all hydraulic hoses and connections for wear, and test the boom and grapple for smooth, responsive movement and yeah make sure the updated grapple works properly coz they are often the first things to wear

 

[EileenLepant]

Don’t skip the undercarriage and frame welds. On machines that skid logs, the base, pins, and pivot joints take a beating. Try propping up the boom, move it full range, see if there’s frame twist or unevenness. Also check filters, pump serial, and check for overheating signs.

 

[lgf3rr]

Hey all, I just joined but I've been following for a while.. thought I'd get some advice here.

A local guy has a used Iron Mule 400 for sale and I'm thinking about going to take a look at it. I've been wanting to get a dedicated piece of equipment for logging my own ten acres, mostly thinning out some stands and cleaning up the woods, and this seems like it might fit the bill. I'd use it alongside my small tractor with a three-point grapple for the bigger stuff. I'm also hoping to do a few small local jobs for firewood sales and this could be a huge help.

I still have to make a closer inspection but the owner says it has an updated modern bypass grapple, which is a big plus. I was hoping to hear from anyone who has experience with these machines, specifically the 400 model. Are there any common issues I should look out for when I go to see it? Any specific things to check on the engine, hydraulics, or boom?? I want to be as informed as possible before I make a decision. Thanks in advance for your insights!!

You'll want to check the same key points as any older forestry forwarder. For the engine, make sure it starts easily when cold, so don't let the seller warm it up before you arrive and listen for any excessive blowby or strange noises. Check the oil and coolant for any signs of contamination or leaks. The hydraulics are critical, so cycle the boom and grapple through its full range of motion, listening for groaning and watching for smooth, consistent movement, and check all the hoses and cylinders for any weeping or significant leaks, especially around the packing seals. Given its age and how hard these machines work, I also strongly suggest to crawl underneath and look closely at the frame and the articulation point between the front and rear sections for any stress cracks or signs of bad welding from previous repairs. If all those areas look sound, you'll likely have a reliable workhorse for your ten acres and side jobs. Good luck with the inspection!

 

[Alan]

Good points already covered. I’d especially pay attention to the articulation joint and frame repairs, that’s where problems usually hide on these.

If you do look at it cold, how did it start up and sound?

 

[morsmordre]

Do you know if the previous owner kept up with regular hydraulic fluid changes? I’ve heard that neglecting that can really shorten the life of the boom cylinders on these units.

 

[What]

OP, did you buy it?