Check Surplus Center, they have some nice selection of loader valves at very reasonable prices. Joystick Valves | Hydraulic Valves | Hydraulics | www.surpluscenter.comI have a Bulldog 285 FEL on my YM2310. It has no float function so I'm considering buying a valve that does. In order to choose the correct valve if I can't find a number on my valve how do I determine the proper size? By the port size? Also, there should be no change in the plumbing, right? I assume the float function works just like my Case does. Push the lever to lower the bucket until it detents. Is that correct?
Thanks,
Eric
Thanks for the reply. My valve looks just like the on pictured on the 285. My 285 is reddish orange colored but is otherwise identical looking. How can I tell if the valve has the float function? When I push the handle up to lower the bucket it does not detent like my Case 580 does.Check Surplus Center, they have some nice selection of loader valves at very reasonable prices. Joystick Valves | Hydraulic Valves | Hydraulics | www.surpluscenter.com
You'll want to check the flow of the pump on your tractor and match the valve closest to that rating. However, from experience, a 10 GPM will work just fine and still offer great feathering ability.
There is a possibility that you'll need to some adapters to the new valve. Also, check if your current valve has 6 or 7 total hoses going to it. If 7, then you'll need the Power beyond fitting for the new valve as well.
Last but not the least, I would confirm first if your current valve doesn't indeed have float. I found this thread on TBN about the same loader, and unless the OP changed his valve as well, I can spot the float feature on that valve. Here is the link: Loader - BullDog 285 FEL on YM1700