Where to learn about hydraulics

[mjdtexan]

Hi, I am new to the tractor scene. Finally got one yesterday. Anyway, as it happens I am already interested in attachments and such. While looking at the "do it yourself" section of this forum I saw something that I really want to build. The good ole homemade log splitter. I have an old riding mower's engine that I can use.

The thing is, I know nothing about hydraulics. So, does anyone know a site that is fairly basic so that I can make myself familiar with hydraulics? Then when I do have questions, and I will, I can ask yall without being completely ignorant on the subject.

 

[bjcsc]

Congrats on the new tractor. Here's a start: Hydraulics.

 

[mjdtexan]

Congrats on the new tractor. Here's a start: Hydraulics.

I thank you for that, that does seem to cover the basics of hydraulics. Now I need to go drag that old Kohler engine out of that old riding lawn mower.

 

[kennyd]

Also look here:

Army Hydraulics Manual

 

[mjdtexan]

Also look here:
Army Hydraulics Manual

Thank You, I did manage to find that one. I was reading it when I get the email notification about the thread reply.


I may have a problem already, I just went out back to look at that engine and it is bottom shafted. I wonder how hard that is to hook up to a hydraulic pump?

 

[denmansoft]

I don't think Hydraulic pumps care about physical orientation.
They are a sealed unit and should self purge any air that get in quite quickly.

 

[mjdtexan]

I don't think Hydraulic pumps care about physical orientation.
They are a sealed unit and should self purge any air that get in quite quickly.

I wonder how I would attach it to the pump

 

[bjcsc]

I wonder how I would attach it to the pump

With a coupler. You buy the half that fits your engine, the half that fits your pump, and the flex middle piece. Click here...

 

[mjdtexan]

With a coupler. You buy the half that fits your engine, the half that fits your pump, and the flex middle piece. Click here...

Thanks for that. I kinda thought I was out of luck. Its a 17 horse engine. I had almost thought of putting it on craigslist to trade for a 5 or 6 horse side shafted engine. Is that flex piece reliable or would I do better with the side shafted engine? My mind tells me its one less moveable part, but its possible the flex piece is reliable.

 

[bjcsc]

You're not out of luck...the 38 series couplings are rated for 40 HP at 1800RPM. All you need is a pump that will give you the flow/pressure you want at 1800RPM and (that one of the couplers will fit - pay attention to the shaft options), a mount that will mount it to your engine, and the coupler pieces...

Notice that the insert (flex piece) only cushions the connection...