Ad Hoc Float Valve for Top Link Spool

[gpick]

I just bought a land leveler that is 6' long and I want to modify the top link spool so the grader will float and follow the terrain. The spool is pictured below and the top link spool is the first one. Anyone recognize the make of my spools?

If a replacement with float detent is not available could install a straight open/shut bypass valve to allow the cylinder to float? Is there such a thing?

 

[J_J]

Here you go. Float valve.

Surplus Center - 20 GPM 1/2" NPT FLOAT VALVE PRINCE SS-2B1D

 

[gpick]

Thanks for the lead, JJ. I think this may be the way to go if I can figure out where and how to mount it. I found the OEM part, Gannon Gold Seal, which apparently is gold at over $500 for a single spool assembly. It would be a simple unbolt and replace but hard to justify at five bills. I am going to try to find a used one. The Gannon float spool part no. is 16350. Anyone have a source for used parts?

 

[Leejohn]

On your land leveler make a bracket like the ones on a 3pt finish mower. The longer it is the more float the rear end well move, the 3pt already floats up and back down at what ever level you have it set at. Then there would not be any need for hyd float valve.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Actually doing about any dirt work, you do not want the top link to float. All that will happen is the implement will roll up forward picking the tail end up in the air.

There, I just saved you some $$$ and time.

 

[gpick]

On your land leveler make a bracket like the ones on a 3pt finish mower. The longer it is the more float the rear end well move, the 3pt already floats up and back down at what ever level you have it set at. Then there would not be any need for hyd float valve.

Thanks,I am considering that also. A problem is that my toplink mast reaches toward the tractor and may not give me enough room to pivot and still lift the grader high enough to clear an obstacle.

 

[gpick]

Actually doing about any dirt work, you do not want the top link to float. All that will happen is the implement will roll up forward picking the tail end up in the air.

You make a good point and I think I recall that you use a land leveler on your roads. I think mine will work fine as is on my gravel roads as they have no abrupt dips or bumps. My concern is that I also want to dress the trails on my property which do have considerable grade changes. My grader's side are 6' long so it is almost the same as my brush hog which has, and needs, an articulating top link connecter. Most of the levelers sides seem about 4' long which is not too much difference than my gannon box.

I just got this attachment so I really haven't all the tricks to use it effectively on rougher terrain so I would appreciate any and all tips, especially those that save me $500.:thumbsup:

 

[MtnViewRanch]

You make a good point and I think I recall that you use a land leveler on your roads. I think mine will work fine as is on my gravel roads as they have no abrupt dips or bumps. My concern is that I also want to dress the trails on my property which do have considerable grade changes. My grader's side are 6' long so it is almost the same as my brush hog which has, and needs, an articulating top link connecter. Most of the levelers sides seem about 4' long which is not too much difference than my gannon box.

I just got this attachment so I really haven't all the tricks to use it effectively on rougher terrain so I would appreciate any and all tips, especially those that save me $500.:thumbsup:

The difference is your mower does not dig into the ground. Set it down so that the front digs into the ground and you will see what I mean, the implement wants to lift the tail end and rotate forward.

When doing your roads, as far as maintenance, only let the hitch down so that the grader just touches the ground. Don't put the 3pt lever all the way forward. As far as your rough trails, you will just have to keep an eye on things and see what works for the conditions you have at that point. It will get easier as you gain some experience with everything.