Hydraulic valve question, need some insight

[johncandyg]

I have a Kubota BX24. Looking to add a third function on the FEL to control a snow plow, dual single acting cylinder power angle setup. I plan on using the rear hydraulic connections for backhoe. Want to maintain existing use of lift and tilt of the FEL. I understand I need a 3-way single spool directional valve with power beyond/open center capability, preferably spring centering where forward or left of center would power left piston and back or right of center power right cylinder. Being single acting cylinders, one would work against the other to return fluid back thru the output line of valve and back to tank. At center, both A and B outlet internal ports are in a closed position to maintain blade position. After several hours of Google searching, I have yet to get a clear picture of a valve with this capability. I see it as a 5 port, P, T, PB, A and B outputs. Can some please suggest a valve make and model number fitting this criteria? Lots of info out there for 4-way valves, 3-way not so much. Need help!

 

[RNeumann]

You are over thinking the plow. The lines are “Tee-ed” so no special valve is needed. Ignore the audio and focus on the plumbing about 1/2 way into the video.

Front blade/plow trip - YouTube

 

[kennyd]

You just need a simple Open Center, Power Beyond capable 4-way valve, like this:

1 Spool 8 GPM Prince MB11B5C1 DA Valve | Directional Control Valves | Hydraulic Valves | Hydraulics | www.surpluscenter.com

The valve will see the two SA cylinders as one DA cylinder, so your overthinking this.

But I will comment on this:

Want to maintain existing use of lift and tilt of the FEL.

Your BX has very little flow, so operating multiple functions at the same time is difficult and slooow. Plus if you use a manual valve your hand can't be on it and the joystick at the same time.

An electric diverter would be MUCH simpler to install and use, and better suited for your BX.

 

[RNeumann]

Another common option is an electric valve and control it with a switch on the loader control.

 

[johncandyg]

Thx everyone for the quick response. As Neumann said, I tend to over think things and I知 not very knowledgeable of the internal porting and channeling of fluid in this type of valve. I agree with Kennyd that a diverter valve is most likely the better way and cheaper over all. Up/down, left/right angle are the main functions in plowing, blade tilt on occasion only. That being said, using the tilt control of FEL valve to diverter, diverter control to tilt and angle seems best to me. Can anyone recommend a brand/model number of a dependable electric or manual diverter, thanks

 

[kennyd]

Can anyone recommend a brand/model number of a dependable electric or manual diverter, thanks

Not trying to be a salesman, but we sell one on our website:

Ken's Bolt on Grab Hooks <<Hydraulics>>

There are others available too, if you search the forum for the term "diverter" you will find hours of reading.

 

[Dave M7040]

I installed this 12 volt selector valve for my snowblower.
https://www.amazon.com/hydraulic-so...aulic+6+Port+Solenoid+Diverter/selector+Valve

I am pleased with its operation.
The only caution is regarding the valve ports which are BSP.
This is not a common port in North America.
The seller of the valve can provide the necessary adapters.
I found mine locally but was given the wrong ones several times until I educated myself.

Wiring is simple if you ignore their sketch.

Dave M7040

 

[oldnslo]

I believe the Kubota BX models have a regen spool for tilt so diverter valve will not work unless you push the joystick to the far right past the detent.

 

[LD1]

Not trying to be a salesman, but we sell one on our website:

Ken's Bolt on Grab Hooks <<Hydraulics>>

There are others available too, if you search the forum for the term "diverter" you will find hours of reading.

If you dont mind answering a question for me.....a little off topic but have wondered....

Is there any advantage to the two coil diverter setup like you you use (and I have seen others similar)....vs the single coil setup that also seems pretty popular?

I believe the Kubota BX models have a regen spool for tilt so diverter valve will not work unless you push the joystick to the far right past the detent.

IF regen becomes a problem....you can use the diverter on lift lower. What I had to do.

It takes some getting used to with left and right for a plow.....but is more natural if you ever get a grapple for lid open and close. :2cents:

 

[kennyd]

If you dont mind answering a question for me.....a little off topic but have wondered....

Is there any advantage to the two coil diverter setup like you you use (and I have seen others similar)....vs the single coil setup that also seems pretty popular?

I don't think so...
One slight advantage may be that most two coil/spool diverters only have ports on two sides vs three on the singles, this can sometimes make mounting easier IMO.