Adding rear hydraulics

[sl63409]

I have a JD 3520 that I'd like to add the rear hydraulic kit ("Power Beyond" in JD lingo) to. Of course the dealer says, 'Oh, you should bring that into the shop and let us install.' And the labor would about double the kit cost ($280).

Has anyone here installed this themselves? Pitfalls? Tricks? I'd really prefer to do this myself, but if it requires some special Binford WakMaster 37-Z John Deere Hydraulic Torque-Snag tool... probably not!

Stuart

 

[kennyd]

Welcome to TBN

The PB kit is not that hard to install for the average DIY wrench turner. What are you going to power with it?

 

[sl63409]

Welcome to TBN

The PB kit is not that hard to install for the average DIY wrench turner. What are you going to power with it?

Thanks for the welcome!

I'm eyeing the hydraulic log splitter from Northern Tool.

I bought the tractor last August when JD had zero % financing - I couldn't pass it up. Got it with a loader, the hydro transmission, and the deluxe brush guard for the grill. I've since bought a ballast box and the Northern Tool log skidder attachment (I live on 5 heavily wooded acres and have been using my 4x4 Chevy to skid logs...). Saturday I ordered a 6' flail mower. Probably next up is a hinged box blade - I need to do a lot of landscaping and contouring.

And I'm a pretty good wrench turner! I've tried searching the forums and I think I saw one post where someone stated that the kits come with instructions. So I'm basically fishing with this post to get more details. Sounds like I can handle it. Just don't want to void the warranty.

Stuart

 

[greasemonkeyok]

Hey Stuart - I'm in the same boat with you. Based on what KennyD says, it looks like a straight forward operation. The only question I haven't explored yet is how to keep air out of the lines during the install, and how to get it out if you do.

I haven't ordered the kit yet, and may wait until summer when it is easier for old guys to work outside.

 

[kennyd]

Hey Stuart - I'm in the same boat with you. Based on what KennyD says, it looks like a straight forward operation. The only question I haven't explored yet is how to keep air out of the lines during the install, and how to get it out if you do.

I haven't ordered the kit yet, and may wait until summer when it is easier for old guys to work outside.

Air is no problem, the system is self-bleeding. Any air will get pushed to the tank and vented there.

Stuart: You may want to consider adding the 3rd SCV kit while your in there, it all gets hooked up in the same place...

 

[TommyJD790]

I just installed the Power Beyond Kit on my JD790 about a month ago so I can run a log splitter off of it.
The directions were very clear and the whole job took less than 2 hours. If you can assemble a childs bicycle, you can install the Power Beyond kit.
The biggest problem I had was installing a C-clip retainer that holds one of the quick disconnect fittings to a metal bracket. If you have a tool that expands the C-clip your all set. You can get one at any local hardware store.

TommyJD790

 

[TomWhite]

I just installed the Power Beyond Kit on my JD790 about a month ago so I can run a log splitter off of it.
The directions were very clear and the whole job took less than 2 hours. If you can assemble a childs bicycle, you can install the Power Beyond kit.
The biggest problem I had was installing a C-clip retainer that holds one of the quick disconnect fittings to a metal bracket. If you have a tool that expands the C-clip your all set. You can get one at any local hardware store.

TommyJD790

Do you mind sharing how much the kit cost you?

 

[The Dougster]

Interesting that this thread came up today... I have an L2800 Kubota and among my implements is a box blade... Hmmm "Wouldn't it be nice if I had a hydraulic tilt cylinder to help with the adjustment"..... a cylinder, a few feet of hose, a log splitter control valve and I'd be in business...

Well, to make a long story short, I was at my "Bota" dealer last week and mentioned it to the guys at the parts counter... they informed me that I'd be looking at approximately $1,500 just in parts...

Needless to say, I said, "Thank you" and walked away... Geez Louise (sorry Louise)

 

[kennyd]

Interesting that this thread came up today... I have an L2800 Kubota and among my implements is a box blade... Hmmm "Wouldn't it be nice if I had a hydraulic tilt cylinder to help with the adjustment"..... a cylinder, a few feet of hose, a log splitter control valve and I'd be in business...

Well, to make a long story short, I was at my "Bota" dealer last week and mentioned it to the guys at the parts counter... they informed me that I'd be looking at approximately $1,500 just in parts...

Needless to say, I said, "Thank you" and walked away... Geez Louise (sorry Louise)

If you did it yourself it would cost around 1k...

 

[kennyd]

Do you mind sharing how much the kit cost you?

The PB kits are about $250.