Deere Rear Hydraulic Options

[kennyd]

Kenny and Foggy, thanks for the replies. I think I understand a little better. I will try to restate the options in my own words. Please tell me if I got something wrong.

1. I can use the rear remotes that I already have on the tractor to run the grapple. To do this I will need to run two hoses from the rear up to where the grapple connects to the loader. My normal loader control joystick would not change. So in order to clamp down or release with the grapple, I would reach back and use one of the little levers on the rear SCV. Is this correct?

If I'm correct, the downsides I see would be a) the need to reach back to clamp or release the grapple and b) the inconvenience of having to plug/unplug and store the hydraulic hoses if I want to use the rear remotes for other things. The benefit, of course, would be that this option is nearly free (except for the hoses) because I already have the rear remotes.

2. I can use a 3rd function kit to plug into the PowerBeyond loop where the other loader hoses come out. The third function would change my current joystick setup to allow me to clamp and release with my thumb (or something like that).

Benefits under this scenario, a) I could use the loader with grapple and both rear remotes without any modification (meaning no unplugging of hoses) and b) I would also have the 3rd function button right there on my joystick. Downside would be cost for the kit and installation.

3. I can use a "diverter kit" to electronically divert power from one place to another. I don't really understand this except that when you divert you lose the option to use any valve that you are diverting from. So I would be potentially losing functionality somewhere, at least temporarily. Maybe this doesn't matter. As I said, I don't think I understand this option well. Could someone help me understand this better?

Thanks in advance. You guys are a great resource.

You are correct on all points. I use a diverter now and while it does take a little getting used to-it works perfectly. Mine (and most others) divert the dump/curl circuit.

 

[jgrreed]

Kenny and Foggy, thanks for the replies. I think I understand a little better. I will try to restate the options in my own words. Please tell me if I got something wrong.

1. I can use the rear remotes that I already have on the tractor to run the grapple. To do this I will need to run two hoses from the rear up to where the grapple connects to the loader. My normal loader control joystick would not change. So in order to clamp down or release with the grapple, I would reach back and use one of the little levers on the rear SCV. Is this correct?

Very true. The hoses are a bit 'messy', but Kenny's right about the costs.

If I'm correct, the downsides I see would be a) the need to reach back to clamp or release the grapple and b) the inconvenience of having to plug/unplug and store the hydraulic hoses if I want to use the rear remotes for other things. The benefit, of course, would be that this option is nearly free (except for the hoses) because I already have the rear remotes.

Yep, exactly.

2. I can use a 3rd function kit to plug into the PowerBeyond loop where the other loader hoses come out. The third function would change my current joystick setup to allow me to clamp and release with my thumb (or something like that).

Yes, you can. I'm not a fan of the diverter setups like WR Long's, but I think they do offer a non-diverter style as well. I prefer to build my own kit, but it's each to their own. I'll be posting how I built my kit on here as soon as my machine gets home, which I hope is soon, because I'm told there are 4' drfits in the yard!!!

Benefits under this scenario, a) I could use the loader with grapple and both rear remotes without any modification (meaning no unplugging of hoses) and b) I would also have the 3rd function button right there on my joystick. Downside would be cost for the kit and installation.

Yep. Will likely be a couple thousand, depending on what you go with. It's a situation where adding one circuit will cost you X, but 3 won't cost 3X, it'll likely be 2X. Kinda like buying donuts - one is $1.00, 3 are $2.00, and 12 are $5.00. I added 5.

3. I can use a "diverter kit" to electronically divert power from one place to another. I don't really understand this except that when you divert you lose the option to use any valve that you are diverting from. So I would be potentially losing functionality somewhere, at least temporarily. Maybe this doesn't matter. As I said, I don't think I understand this option well. Could someone help me understand this better?

You're correct in how you're thinking about it. That's why I don't like them. It just makes for mental gymnastics.....

This is how I imagine me running a diverter "does the button+leftstick make the grapple open, or does it curl the bucket, or does it angle the blade, oh my god.....where did that log splitter come from.......aaahhh!!!"

If you're running a backhoe I think a diverter would actually make your head explode....

Read through this:

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/hydraulics/187546-how-i-think-through-add.html

It's not complete yet, but I think it'll guide you a bit. If it doesn't, let me know and I'll have to re-write it. I wrote it just for people in your situation.

-Jer.

Thanks in advance.

You're welcome!!

 

[jgrreed]

You are correct on all points. I use a diverter now and while it does take a little getting used to-it works perfectly. Mine (and most others) divert the dump/curl circuit.

What Kenny didn't tell you is that he is actually a Jedi, so don't expect the same results!!!

 

[jgrreed]

Yep!! You gotta wonder what Deere is thinking about when they make it so difficult to add more remotes economically. Yes, they can get some 'mo money from some of us for the optional hydraulics.....but for many others it serves to limit the implement choices (and sales) later. Especially big-ticket items.

You guys are VERY right. It's irritating that we have to design our own systems when we're supposedly dealing with the 'premiere' company.

-Jer.

 

[Angelus]

I think I've got it now. Very helpful. Thanks again guys.

 

[Tractor King]

I operate a JD4400 and use Bradco Fork lift with a grapple set up I designed. I have the rear outlet kit installed and the control is a right fender design. I think they also made a dual. Anyway I just hydrualic hoze lines from the rear and on the loader to the cylinder....no problem at all.