Adding 3rd function and rear service ports

[WildArkie]

I have read many threads on adding front or rear hydraulic ports asking if single (or multiple) valves, diverters, or true 3rd funtions are better. Usually the operator has some form of service and is trying to add more or additional ports either to the back or front of the tractor. There are also certain ways we use tractors that make us like one function over another.

I have a Kubota L4400 with a FEL and no other hydraulic functions but want to add a grapple and rear service for T-N-T and maybe an extra port. So my question is with a blank slate to start with what would be the best and easiest (maybe cheapest) way to add all of it at the same time. I would prefer the grapple control close to the FEL control lever.

 

[J_J]

A selector /diverter valve like this would work for the grapple.

Surplus Center - 12 VDC 13.2 GPM SAE 8 DOUBLE SELECTOR VALVE

A 4 spool valve for the T-N-T with float and one spool with detent for maybe a log splitter.

Surplus Center - 4 SPOOL SV VALVE OPEN CENTER W/POWER BEYOND

Add the diverter valve to the curl work ports.

You can also take the 4 th remote spool and use that as the grapple control.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

To start with, a diverter for the grapple is easier and costs less than a true 3rd function for up front. You should be able to do it complete and a good job for around $500. :thumbsup: As far as the rear remotes, Kubota OEM units would be the cleanest and easiest, :thumbsup: but will cost waaaaaaaay more money. You should be able to get an after market 3 spool set up with at least 1 float function and better if there were 2 for around $800. Of course a lot can depend on just what parts you use and if you do all the sourcing and installation. :confused3: By the time that you are all done, you should be able to have the front diverter and 3 rear remotes for under $1500.

Good luck


Oh, your "TnT" kit would be around $600 plus or minus a few $$ shipped to your door.

 

[WildArkie]

So doing it all at once would not be any different than already having one or the other. Ya'll are still recommending multi valves for the back and diverter up front over a 4 port electric diverter and selector buttons? I guess with the multiple diverters there is not a float option?

 

[MtnViewRanch]

So doing it all at once would not be any different than already having one or the other. Ya'll are still recommending multi valves for the back and diverter up front over a 4 port electric diverter and selector buttons? I guess with the multiple diverters there is not a float option?

If the valve that you use the diverters with has the float function, then the diverters will have the float function. What you might need then is instead of the momentary switch that is commonly used with the electric valves is to use a switch that stays switched (can't think of the proper name right now ) so that you would be able to make use of the float function without having to keep your finger on the switch to keep the solenoid energised. Does that make sense? :confused2:

 

[Guesseral]

If the valve that you use the diverters with has the float function, then the diverters will have the float function. What you might need then is instead of the momentary switch that is commonly used with the electric valves is to use a switch that stays switched (can't think of the proper name right now ) so that you would be able to make use of the float function without having to keep your finger on the switch to keep the solenoid energised. Does that make sense? :confused2:

A diffinate purpose switch.

 

[J_J]

WildArkie,

Your question is answered in post #2

There is no float in the curl circuit which is also the grapple circuit.

Where is it that you want float.

You can however make any cyl go to float by this valve.

http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?item=9-1064&catname=

This is similar to the hookup for manual float on a cyl.

http://www.surpluscenter.com/Drawing/DR9-1064.pdf

If you get a stacked valve, you can make it up anyway you want.

Stacked valve.

Surplus Center - 4 SPOOL SV VALVE OPEN CENTER W/POWER BEYOND

 

[WildArkie]

I don't know that I have to have float. I read on a thread where it was recommended for the top link if used with a cutter but could take it off.

I have an old valve that I was considering using for the grapple in series with the loader control. I have seen a couple of others here do that and that would save me from buying something else. I would not be using this for commercial work so speed with a diverter is not a big concern but I still would mount the valve by the loader control.

 

[J_J]

Does the valve you are considering for the grapple have PB?

 

[WildArkie]

No. That slipped my mind. I guess I would need that for the 3pt. This is why I need others to set me straight.