3515h intro, 3rd function and ballast

[Dpxmed]

Hi everybody, first off, thank you to everyone for the valuable information you provide. New (7 hours on the meter) 2019 3515h owner.

After researching, it looks like a true 3rd function for a grapple (wicked 55" should be delivered soon)may not be completly economical and a diverter may be a better option. From what i understand ( lol not much) there is a very limited window for the loader (BL150) to use even just the 2 functions. When using the loader, I wouldn't be able to use either of the 2 rear remotes for a third function either as the BP(carryover) port isnt flowing to the rear when using the loader. So using multiple functions wouldn't work with running a hose from the rear to the grapple. So I was wondering if a diverter would give me the same amount of functionality (possibly using lift/curl/clamp) as a True 3rd function kit with how the Fel valve operates.

Second, I will need a rear ballast. I know using a rear implement is probably the most economical as it has some weight and function, but I dont own any at the moment and a 60" box blade is only around 400-500 pounds. Plus I'll be using it in the thick woods to clear some trails slowly and dont want to be bending or breaking any rear implements if contact is made with a tree or rock. I'm thinking I would like 800-1100#'s to fully use the loaders capability and get some weight off the front axle with a full bucket of dirt or logs in the grapple. I will probably be forming a concrete ballast for that task, that way I can take it off if I need to go over the lawn or my septic drain/leech field pipe.

Was also wondering about extendable/telescoping arms for the 3 point or a Pats quick connect set up. A quick hitch was an option, but it sounds like there are some modifications that need to be done to make it "universal" and work right.

Sorry for the long post and look forward to any thoughts or advice (this is my first tractor) about what I "think I know" right now.

 

[ericm979]

The true 3rd function and diverter cost about the same if you're making your own. But due to the loader valve, the 3rd function won't get flow when you are operating the loader. And many Branson loader valves dont' readily raise/lower and curl/dump at the same time. On mine the sweet spot is so narrow it's not possible to find. So really the choice is in how you want the grapple to operate- by holding a button and curling with the joystick, or by leaving the joystick in neutral and holding one of two buttons. The diverter will let you 'feather' the valve; the 3rd function won't. But with my dual lid EA grapple I never feather it- I mash down whatever is in there until it does not mash any more.

The box blade on the back is better than nothing. Between that and loaded rears I've been ok. I still want to make a heavy ballast box mostly because it will be more compact than the box blade for work in tight spaces.

With the extendable arms and tilt cylinder it's easy to hook an implement up. The crank adjuster would work like the tilt cylinder just slower. Pats or a quick hitch both add about 4". I didn't want implements to stick out farther.

I'd reconsider driving on the leach field. Some people can do it without a problem but others cause damage that's expensive to fix.

 

[Branson Bob]

I don't have much to add other than what Eric says is true about Pat's Quick Hitch. I have them and they're good quality but two negatives:

1) they do add length to the lower arms
2) they don't always fit every attachment. Some attachments have "boxed" connections and the Pat's increases the width needed to hookup.

Once I installed Top and Tilt it was pretty easy hooking up all my attachments, even with uneven ground and even without the Pat's, which again is a really good product otherwise.

 

[Dpxmed]

Thanks for the Info. I ordered a diverter kit from Summit and the arm mounting plate they offer for around $290. Just have to mock it up and get fittings/hoses when it comes in. Seemed the easiest to plumb and i wouldnt get a true 3rd function anyways with how the Branson loader valve doesnt feed the power beyond if the loader is being used.

My grapple came in so I'm hoping to put it to use after the install.

I will need to build a concrete ballast box , saw quite a few good ideas on the board. Hopefully Ill get some pics...if i remember.