Extra fluid needed for log splitter

[gordon21]

If I add a 3PT log splitter that runs off the tractor hydraulics, how do I compensate for the fluid needed to fill the extension hoses and the cylinder on the splitter? I would like to hook the hoses up to the front set for the FEL on a JD 790. Can I merely unhook the loaders four hoses and hook up two from the splitter or do I have to have the dealer install a set of rear hose couplers. I would buy a splitter from TSC or Northern tool for about $600-700 if that helps you in answering. I will not attempt to install any hydraulics kit myself. Once the cylinder and hoses gets filled, do I then top off the tractor tank?

 

[RonMar]

Once you attach the splitter for the first time and cycle it, you will need to refill your hydraulic resovoir to replace the fluid that first fills the splitter cylinder. Once full, the splitter cylinder and hoses will always be full and since you are returning nearly as much fluid from the cylinder as you are using when extending the ram, the impact on the resovoir level will be negligible(the amount of fluid displaced by the rod in the ram when fully retracted). When removed, the ram and hoses are full so they should still be that way when you hook it up next time.

To really have a low impact on the resovoir level in the tractor, you could remove the fitting on the rod end of the cylinder when fully retracted and using a bottle with a small opening, fill that end of the cylinder. This could take a while to flow in as air must flow out at the same time.

Most just hook them up to the tractor, extend the ram all the way out and add fluid to the resovoir to make up that used by the ram. Retract the ram and check/add fluid to resovoir, repeat several times till all air is purged from the splitter ram and hoses then make sure the resovoir level is correct.

 

[gordon21]

How much fluid should I have on hand? 2-3 qts??

Also, what is the difference between 1 wire and 2 wire hoses?

 

[MadDog]

Does it come with quick disconnects? If not, I'd install some, otherwise you are going to have to put caps on the hoses to prevent fluid loss.

 

[greg_g]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I would like to hook the hoses up to the front set for the FEL on a JD 790. Can I merely unhook the loaders four hoses and hook up two from the splitter or do I have to have the dealer install a set of rear hose couplers. )</font>

After my new splitter (4x24) took what it needed from the tractor reservior, I had to to it up with about 1.5 gallons.

A TPH splitter has it's own 3 position control valve (extend-retract-idle), which needs a constant supply of hydraulic fluid. It's gotta be fed by something that will permit the hydraulic fluid to keep circulating within the tractor loop when the splitter valve is centered (idle). If your FEL joystick does that, you should be ok. Otherwise, consider a set of remotes more compatible with the needs of the splitter.

//greg//