So the question for the experts here is ,
I am looking, to install either a 3rd function valve or a diverter valve for the loader. Third function is expensive but allows all three function at one time. Diverter valve is cheaper but cannot be operated with dump/curl function.
So what are to pros and cons of each from those who know.
Thanks
Here is my :2cents: for whatever that may actually be worth these days. And yes I am well aware that many if not most TBNers seem to prefer the true 3rd function, other than bragging rights of being able to do 3 functions at once, big deal. In reality, for most applications it is not. AGAIN just my :2cents:
True 3rd function allows you to operate 3 loader functions at a single time. Now what no one talks about is that the joystick has to be just right for that to actually happen, otherwise the 3rd function simply does not work.
Next thing, what tractor do you have and what is the pumps GPM? Smaller tractors often will work ok, because the cylinders are so much smaller, so the speed isn't bad. But move up in size and the cylinders seem to get bigger at a faster rate than the pumps, so things slow down.
The next "problem" in my mind with a true 3rd function is that you have no real control of the speed that the fluid flows to the cylinder. The valve is either open, or closed. Nothing in-between, no actual feathering of the control. You want-need to feather, you need to flip the switch off-on, off-on fast to try to get the desired result.
For plumbing, you have to get into the power beyond line. This can be or not a problem for some people.
With a diverter 3rd function, you typically reroute the curl function hoses through the diverter. You have 100% full control of the aux hyd function. You can not curl and operate the 3rd function at the same "exact" time. For some reason people think that there is time lost between changing those functions. The time lost in reality is miniscule.
(I seem to remember that it is around 1/16000th of a second?) so if that is going to slow your work down, better get a true 3rd function and have the issues that come with it.
Something else that is a misunderstanding, people seem to have gotten the idea that the control always has to go back to neutral before using the other function, this IS NOT TRUE, at least with the valves that I sell. You can operate these valves back and forth while the main control valve is in use. So in theory if you were good you could get the same results as operating 3 functions at once. But why?? :confused3:
Next thing that I have never been able to understand, but maybe it is just me. When I use my grapple, I like to clamp down on what I'm picking up before I raise and curl. Why would you want to raise at all and have stuff falling out before it is ever clamped down? Again, might just be me, I don't really use my grapple all that much.
Something else that needs to be mentioned is that if you have a loader control that has a 3 position curl with the regeneration mode in the dump side, the diverters are not going to operate properly and a true 3rd function is the best way to go. These type controls are std on the economy Kubota L and MX models from what I have seen. Also currently on some of the newer JD models.
As far as cost, you are just looking in the wrong places. I sell both kits complete, all hoses, fittings etc. for the same cost, $715 delivered for anything under 12GPM. +Sales tax if you're in California.
Hope this helps you and others at least some.
