HydrauLink- a self-contained air over hydraulic top link

[sodamo]

So is this adjustable from the seat? From the video, looks like you might set the length when you hook it up, self adjusts as you raise/lower, BUT can you also change the length and therefore pitch of the attachment on the fly?

David

 

[HydrauLink]

HydrauLink has been in field testing for a year now but is just now getting into the open market. So, finding users is going to be a challenge but I'll find out if we can get a few of our field testers to give us some input for TBN.

As for how it collapses so easily, HydrauLink uses a unique combination of air and hydraulic fluid, which as you know breaks a few rules regarding hydraulics. However, unlike typical hydraulic cylinders, this is what makes HydrauLink work so well. When you open the needle valve on top of the unit, it releases the pressure which in turn lowers the implement. Keep in mind though, HydrauLink will NOT let the implement sink. It does move in and out slightly be design but your implement will not drift down over time. Take a look at our FAQ page and it should answer some of your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions

 

[magicheater]

How do you easliy colapse the TL? The video only shows it extending...wonder why:confused2:

I was thinking the same thing, How would you lift the implement?

 

[HydrauLink]

So is this adjustable from the seat? From the video, looks like you might set the length when you hook it up, self adjusts as you raise/lower, BUT can you also change the length and therefore pitch of the attachment on the fly?

David

When you hook up HydrauLink, you can do it by hand...easily (http://hydraulink.net/HydrauLink_Instructions.pdf). Close the valve and the implement is set. Lowering is a matter of opening and closing the valve. Raising the implement means you open the valve and then lower the 3 point all the way to the ground. This pushes the implement into whatever position you want it in...close the valve again and you're set.

HydrauLink is a new kind of top link. It doesn't operate like the old ones. However, it's these very same changes that give our product an edge over competing designs. It's self-adjusting, shock-absorbing; easy to install features are unlike anything else available.

 

[magicheater]

I will continue to use my Hydraulic top link. I can see a real use for the three point arms if they were calibrated so one could make sure the arms were of equal length, But then they would have to take the direct pulling force and possibly have to be made a little stouter.

 

[HydrauLink]

I will continue to use my Hydraulic top link. I can see a real use for the three point arms if they were calibrated so one could make sure the arms were of equal length, But then they would have to take the direct pulling force and possibly have to be made a little stouter.

I understand. Our sales reps are starting to make their way to dealerships to across the US. If you have the opportunirty, I strongly encourage you to watch a live demonstration. Also, the second video on our website is a bit longer (7 min) but it demonstrates the raising and lowering of the implement.
Demonstration video

 

[beenthere]

I am trying to wrap my mind around why/where there is a need/demand for this link. It appears to be an enclosed system of fluid/air that can be adjusted/moved from one end of the link to the other (by opening a valve), that lengthens of shortens the link (if an operator can reach it from the seat, otherwise an awkward "get off the tractor" to adjust).

It would not cover the same applications where I now use my hydraulic link as a top arm. I use it for more than just changing the position of an attachment.

When I have the forks on the 3ph, I adjust the tips to engage the pallet. Don't see doing that with this link system. When I am operating the rotary cutter, I adjust the position of the cutter with the hyd. top link, and also raise the rear wheel off the ground for clearing obstacles and for highway(non-cutting) travel.

Will watch for more ideas where this link fits into the scheme of things we TBN'rs do real time. Sorry, not a positive observer so far.

 

[wvpolekat]

I think that comparing this to a hydraulic top link is not a good comparison.

It is closer to a manual top link that does not require screwing to adjust. It offers minimal "on the fly" adjustment.

A true hydraulic top link would allow you to adjust the link on the fly, without having to move the 3 point.

Not to say it does not have a market, just that it is closer to a manual top link than a hydraulic one.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Just my opinion here, but it looks like it is just an alternative type of top link. Might be considered easier to adjust than the std screw type top link, but there is no way that it could be considered an option of equal value-use to the std hydraulic top link. My thinking is that it would be used the most on SCUTs.

 

[HydrauLink]

I am trying to wrap my mind around why/where there is a need/demand for this link. It appears to be an enclosed system of fluid/air that can be adjusted/moved from one end of the link to the other (by opening a valve), that lengthens of shortens the link (if an operator can reach it from the seat, otherwise an awkward "get off the tractor" to adjust).

It would not cover the same applications where I now use my hydraulic link as a top arm. I use it for more than just changing the position of an attachment.

When I have the forks on the 3ph, I adjust the tips to engage the pallet. Don't see doing that with this link system. When I am operating the rotary cutter, I adjust the position of the cutter with the hyd. top link, and also raise the rear wheel off the ground for clearing obstacles and for highway(non-cutting) travel.

Will watch for more ideas where this link fits into the scheme of things we TBN'rs do real time. Sorry, not a positive observer so far.

No worries. I like a challenge. Let me try to answer your concerns. Why HydrauLink? Does a typical hydraulic cylinder install on a tractor in about 2 minutes or less? Can you do it without tools? Can you move it from one tractor to another in minutes? Does it self-adjust to the contours of the ground? Does a hydraulic cylinder or screwjack act like a shock absorber for your implement? The simple answer is no. It can't but HydrauLink does. As for wanting to adjust it from the cab... not to worry. We have it in development for those that want it. Remember that adjusting one of these is dramatically easier than any screwjack. and it requires far less adjusting than a hydraulic top link in most applications.

Now, to be realistic about the whole thing, there is no way we can practically try every conceivable application a person might have. However, we have put it to the test with box blades, cutters, mowers, graders, groomers, and plows to name a few. I hope this helps a little bit with your questions.

HydrauLink was unveiled at the AgConnect 2010 show where it was voted the '#1 New Product & Technology' at the show (New Products & Technologies < Show Archives | AG CONNECT Expo). The applications are numerous and it has been tested extensively before being brought to market. Believe me when I say it was grueling getting it tested, presented, marketed, accepted and manufactured. We performed a live demonstration for AgriSupply who then purchased our entire first batch from the manufacturer. That is not an easy company to get products in the door with either. They are very cautious what they sell to their customers... only the best.