Hydraulic flow restrictors

Phils · Jan 10, 2005

When I'm operating my PT at higher RPMs, using the FEL is a touchy proposition. I have to be very careful when moving the lever or the bucket will travel very swiftly (too fast).

The 580 Case I used to own would only let the bucket travel at a maximum (reasonable) speed, no matter the motor rpm.

Would installing some kind of flow restrictor help? Would I WANT a flow restrictor in that hydraulic circuit, or would some other implement's performance suffer? And how or what would be the suggestions for a restrictor if the idea has merit?

Phil

J_J · Jan 10, 2005

Surpluscenter.com has all the restrictors you need, fixed or adjustable. I would put the restrictor close by the bucket.

MossRoad · Jan 11, 2005

There is a post somwhere on TBN about using flow restrictors in a hydraulic circuit and there was some discussion as to you may need two of them... one on each side of the cylinder, for each direction, because they pass full flow in one direction and restricted flow in the other. It may be worth a search. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

Phils · Jan 11, 2005

Thanks both of you.

Is this a problem for anyone else or should I just "get used to it"? I just remember on my Case I could have the RPMs high and move the lever ALL the way and the bucket wouldn't be 'slamming' up or down but would move smoothly and at a reasonable speed.

Phil

MossRoad · Jan 11, 2005

It has been a problem for me once in a while. I ended up with a lap full of dirt. Glad I wasn't working with rocks! /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

May be better to install them and see how you like them. You can always take them out if they are a problem.

J_J · Jan 11, 2005

I just saw some adjustable flow control valves on Ebay for about $5.00. I would get one that matches your hyd flow, and then adjust it down to suit your purpose.

Phils · Jan 11, 2005

Thanks, JJ. You'd think I'd have learned by now to check eBay for everything, but for your suggestion I wouldn't have.

There are two styles (manufacturers) Parker and Flutec. Both are adjustable and mention for single direction rams, so I'd need two of them for the bucket control. One mentions it'll work up to 5 gallons per minute flow. I'm only guessing that flow would be sufficient for my PT bucket. But at a starting bid of $5 each + shipping, I wouldn't be spending more than $25 for them both. Another $5 or $10 for fittings and/or adapters should finish the job. I REALLY like the "adjustable" part and hadn't even thought of that concept. Guess that's why I come to TBN, unlike the rest of you all -- who just come here to SHARE your knowledge with the half-dozen of us that need it!

I'm "watching" those valves and now that I've seen them I'll look at the PT and imagine a good mounting location.

Phil

J_J · Jan 11, 2005

You would only need one flow control in line with a cylinder. The hyd fluid has to go through the flow control to push the cyl out, and then it has to come back through the flow control to return because the fluid on the other side of the piston is pushing the fluid in reverse

There are other valves that restrict in one direction and give full flow in the other direction.

To give flow control to two cys at the same time as in loader arms, you would install the flow control at the point where it comes out of the valve and then splits to each cylinder.

Hope this helps in some way.

FOURTEEN · Jan 12, 2005

"" using the FEL is a touchy proposition ""

There is an OEM lever on the left side of the control panel which is labeled "Throttle"! When a slow gentle touch for the FEL is needed, move that lever toward you until the desired response is achieved!!

/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif