Mahindra - adding grapple - help

[POC]

I want to add a grapple to my tractor, I have looked at the electic push-button vs. adding another lever, control valve, etc.
I think I like the idea of adding the "remote" (or two) so I can use it for other things than just a grapple. (I realize I can do the same with the "push button" diverter also.)

I know nothing about hydraulics. I'm going to need some help. I emplore you wise men to assist me. I've worked the last three nights, but am off the next two. I'll try to take some pictures of what I have on my tractor as I am not even sure what I'm looking at.

Islandtractor did give me some direction, and I've read several threads here about doing exactly what I'm talking about.

Thanks,
Patrick

 

[kennyd]

Is there a factory kit available for your tractor?

 

[POC]

I haven't checked on that kennyd. Maybe I should do that first.

 

[IslandTractor]

Most tractor brands have kits to allow you to add one or two sets of rear remotes. They are not too expensive generally although a few brands like JD and NH seem to gouge on those things. I believe for Kioti the cost is about $300 for each set (last year's prices). They are not difficult to install.

I used rear remotes to control the grapple on my first tractor and liked the system very much. It is important that the control lever is within easy natural reach of your right hand and ideally is sort of below and to the side of the FEL joystick. After you use it for a while it becomes a no look task just like moving your hand from the car steering wheel to the 4 on the floor.

 

[Farmerford]

I agree with Island Tractor that the valve handle should be located where it is convenient. I only have Kubotas, and the factory remote kits all put the control lever behind the seat on the right side, right next to the rear PTO lever. This is very awkward.

As I recall from a loooonnggg time ago on the farm, most of the remote valve controls on flat platform tractors (JD 4010, MF 1100) were mounted on the dash and those on footrest tractors (MF 35, 40, 65) were mounted on top of the transmission cover in front of the seat.

Next time I will install a two spool valve next to the FEL valve, where the handles will be very close to the FEL valve handle. On the L4340 I could build a platform on the sloping front surface of the right rear fender to hold the valve.

The new valve would be in the power beyond circuit coming out of the FEL valve. Two sets of hoses would run from the valve: One spool would be connected to the grapple, and the other spool would be connected to rear-mounted quick disconnects. Kubot would probably charge $500-700 for a factory two spool valve, and I suspect I could do all the above for $250 or less, and it would be much more convenient to use.

 

[POC]

I'm gotten a "quote" of around $500 from a Mahindra dealer. I looked for some parts online and found the 2 way valve, single spool with spring-return-to-center and the power beyond coupler for $92 before shipping. Does that sound right? (Sounded too cheap to me.)

 

[IslandTractor]

I'm gotten a "quote" of around $500 from a Mahindra dealer. I looked for some parts online and found the 2 way valve, single spool with spring-return-to-center and the power beyond coupler for $92 before shipping. Does that sound right? (Sounded too cheap to me.)

I haven't done this job myself. I'd check with either (or both) 3RRL (civilian) and Rick Wallace (Mahindra dealer) to see if the numbers are right and whether there is anything tricky with that installation on a Mahindra.

 

[kennyd]

I'm gotten a "quote" of around $500 from a Mahindra dealer. I looked for some parts online and found the 2 way valve, single spool with spring-return-to-center and the power beyond coupler for $92 before shipping. Does that sound right? (Sounded too cheap to me.)

$92 is pretty cheap...BUT you want:
4-way
Open Center
Spring Return-to-Center
Power Beyond capable

But also remember the valve is only part of it, buy the time you buy the hoses, couplers, fittings and labor the $500 price is not far off. I would suggest a two or three spool valve also if yoy are putting these remotes at the rear of the machine.

 

[flusher]

I want to add a grapple to my tractor, I have looked at the electic push-button vs. adding another lever, control valve, etc.
I think I like the idea of adding the "remote" (or two) so I can use it for other things than just a grapple. (I realize I can do the same with the "push button" diverter also.)

I know nothing about hydraulics. I'm going to need some help. I emplore you wise men to assist me. I've worked the last three nights, but am off the next two. I'll try to take some pictures of what I have on my tractor as I am not even sure what I'm looking at.

Islandtractor did give me some direction, and I've read several threads here about doing exactly what I'm talking about.

Thanks,
Patrick

I have triple hydraulic remotes on my new Mahindra 5525. Dealer installed for $750 (parts, labor).

The control valve unit for the remotes is connected downstream from the FEL control valve.

Here's the schematic for this setup that shows the external hoses and valves. The Dinoil valve unit is the control for the remotes.

I don't have the service manual for the 5525 so I don't have info on the internal hydraulics layout and I haven't been able to find any info on that Nimco FEL valve which is Swedish manufacture. I would guess that the Dinoil valve is connected to the power beyond port on the Nimco valve.

 

[POC]

Why do I need 4-way?

$92 is pretty cheap...BUT you want:
4-way
Open Center
Spring Return-to-Center
Power Beyond capable

But also remember the valve is only part of it, buy the time you buy the hoses, couplers, fittings and labor the $500 price is not far off. I would suggest a two or three spool valve also if yoy are putting these remotes at the rear of the machine.