CHDinCT
Veteran Member
Well, finally started my dual rear remote project for my BX25. This all started after following Artisan's BX25 GrappleOmatic thread and thinking about adding the Thumb grapple to my FEL, but, I also have a hydraulic top link that I used on my old BX1860 with the Kubota factory dual rear remote kit. That kit is very cool and well integrated on the non BH BX's but since the valve mounts to the side of the HST, there's interference with the BH sub frame on the BX24/25 machines so it's a no go for me.
I looked hard at the 3rd function solenoid solutions for the grapple like Artisan nicely put together, but I couldn't find a local dealer I could order a Fasse valve through with confidence. And, that still left me wondering if or how I could use it to operate my old hydraulic top link. So, I finally decided to put together a rear valve kit from Surplus Center and Discount Hydraulic Hose parts that will be plugged into my BH power beyond loop. This will mean I can't use it when the BH is on, or can't use the BH when it's plumbed into the PB loop, but since it's mostly for the hydro top link for now, that's OK. I plan to add the thumb down the line with funds are available. I did buy the angle iron to modify the top edge of the FEL for the thumb once I get it. I will operate the thumb using long hose to the rear aux valve.
So here's some pic's of my progress so far. No laughing since this is my first fabrication project. Bought the welder with Xmas money and I think this is the 3rd time I've used it. Have to say, I would never have taken the plunge on welding if not for being a TBN member and getting encouragement from a neighbor of mine who I actually met via TBN - Scotty Dive. He showed me his equipment and encouraged me to start welding, so thank you Scott.
First pic is the valve with the QC's temporarily mounted to see if they clear each other. The scrap metal for the mount is beside it. Other pic's are making up the mount which will attach to the ROPS. Plan is to make it removable for when it's not needed and also so I can move it to my next tractor should I ever trade up.
I looked hard at the 3rd function solenoid solutions for the grapple like Artisan nicely put together, but I couldn't find a local dealer I could order a Fasse valve through with confidence. And, that still left me wondering if or how I could use it to operate my old hydraulic top link. So, I finally decided to put together a rear valve kit from Surplus Center and Discount Hydraulic Hose parts that will be plugged into my BH power beyond loop. This will mean I can't use it when the BH is on, or can't use the BH when it's plumbed into the PB loop, but since it's mostly for the hydro top link for now, that's OK. I plan to add the thumb down the line with funds are available. I did buy the angle iron to modify the top edge of the FEL for the thumb once I get it. I will operate the thumb using long hose to the rear aux valve.
So here's some pic's of my progress so far. No laughing since this is my first fabrication project. Bought the welder with Xmas money and I think this is the 3rd time I've used it. Have to say, I would never have taken the plunge on welding if not for being a TBN member and getting encouragement from a neighbor of mine who I actually met via TBN - Scotty Dive. He showed me his equipment and encouraged me to start welding, so thank you Scott.
First pic is the valve with the QC's temporarily mounted to see if they clear each other. The scrap metal for the mount is beside it. Other pic's are making up the mount which will attach to the ROPS. Plan is to make it removable for when it's not needed and also so I can move it to my next tractor should I ever trade up.