Automatic FEL Return

lzicc · Jan 21, 2011

I'll try to explain this the best I can. After you dump with the FEL, when you pull the lever to bring the bucket back in position, (undumped position) is there an option to have the hydraulics stop by itself when it is fully back up? Does that make sense?

After I dump the load from the FEL, I just want to push the return lever and let it go and it will stop on it's own when fully retracted. Not sure if any of the Kubota's have that option.

Milton Burro · Jan 21, 2011

You would have to replace the entire joystick valve methinks, $$,, probably losing the auto center spool function making feathering of the valve for control require more attention. I'm unfamiliar with all the configurations you can get in a joystick valve, so you may find a self centering spool with the lock position you desire. Maybe you could just remove the spring from the spool, but I doubt it would return when your cylinders reach travel limit.

PILOON · Jan 21, 2011

I am sure it can be done.
The bucket would need to be self leveling and some geometry can accomplish that.
The valve also would have to be like a log splitter with a pop off function when the limit or position is reached.
I doubt that the consumer would be willing to pay for that bonus feature.
Just too many variables involved.

kennyd · Jan 21, 2011

The real short answer is "NO".

BXpanded · Jan 21, 2011

The older ('60s and '70s) Case TLBs had a "Return to dig" function that accomplished that. The lever was shoved firmly forward and to the left. It engaged a linkage that held the control in the bucket "curl" direction and in the float position. The linkage kicked out of the curl position when the bucket was level and the float allowed the bucket to drop to the ground. It was intended to speed up loading of trucks I think. You could dump into the truck, engage the return to dig, back up and be ready to go back into the pile.
I really never found a need for it and don't remember anything like it on any other brand of machine. I don't know if they still put it on or not.

oldnslo · Jan 21, 2011

I think some articulated front end loaders also had this feature. Haven't been on a new one so not sure any more.

To the OP. Do you want it to stop when the bucket is level or at full curl? If full curl you could change you valve out to pressure release detent version like larger ag tractors have. Not cheap but possibly doable. This would only be for curl.

Roy