MIE 3rd Function Kit

wiskioti · Aug 6, 2019

waendo said:
Thanks for the explanation. I hope the original poster does not mind that I've hijacked his thread.
Your explanation of the ESK helps, so when you switch to the 3rd function, it takes over one of the joystick positions and therefore the rate/speed can be controlled just like the bucket curl rate?
Are you happy with the ESK? Was the TKF available when you made the purchase?

Hi Waendo,

Your description is exactly correct. While you hold the button, you are enabling the 3rd function which replaces one of the functions of the loader (usually configured to be the curl function). If you hold the button without moving the joystick, nothing will happen. To my understanding, this is no different than the function of a diverter valve, but for some reason, some posters get pretty hot under the collar when you call it that. :confused3:

I'm happy with the ESK. My chief complaint was that the joystick button seemed cheap. It was a plastic raised button that had no resistance to being pushed. And since it sits right where your thumb rests, it was too easy to activate the third function by inadvertently pressing the button. Low and behold, my button actually failed about a month ago (it would stick in the activated/pressed mode), so I replaced with with a waterproof stainless flush-faced button: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FS8R163/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_biDsDb9A0D61G

When I purchased the ESK, the TFK kit was available. I went with the ESK because it was quite a bit cheaper ($300-$400 cheaper as I recall) and really, how much benefit is having a real 3rd function? Most compact tractors don't have the hydraulic flow to get 2 functions to work simultaneously at 100%, much less 3 functions. I have had the grapple + ESK for about 9 months and never once have I found myself in a situation where I said "Dang, I wish I had access to 3 functions at the same time!" As with all equipment, you learn and adapt to operating it.

MichiganIron · Aug 6, 2019

Thanks for the feedback on the button. Silly us...... but we pay twice what your link shows for the buttons we use from our supplier. Be assured we will start using different buttons on our NX ESK Kits. The CK, DK, and RX Kits use a Trigger Handle, only the current NX Tractors use the thumb button.

Lessons learned, feedback is much appreciated.

Team MIE

skindaddy · Aug 7, 2019

hows trying to push in that flush button, by looks doesnt seem like it would be a on the fly button, looks like have to stop and shove pinky in there to activate lol!

the old grind · Aug 7, 2019

I asked MIE to let me add the switch for a diverter install. Rather than swap out my OEM loader stick for one with more buttons, I threw this together in about an hour, tho' I've replaced the $3 switch at least once in four years. (some times 'we' get a rain bath, nature at work

)

Some CUT's have limited space to mount a diverter valve. I didn't want mine on the loader tower & making extra steps when removing FEL. With hard lines 'full width' along the arm, I chose to 'straddle over top' & tooled-up a mount/brackets from ~6" x 6" x 5/15" CRS and 2" square x 6" of 3/16" wall tube, with channel iron brackets and 1/4" x 6" Grade 8 bolts from TSC .

I dropped off my home-brew mount setup and MIE did the rest. Just so you know they'll listen to and work with a 'client' (we fortunate few, lol) I came home with this, and dismounting the FEL is every bit as simple as the day I brought the NH home. Just want to show that MIE will deliver to your satisfaction, and listen to your input to be sure of it. No fuss, just 100% service .. once you find a switch you can live with. :laughing:

wiskioti · Aug 7, 2019

skindaddy said:
hows trying to push in that flush button, by looks doesnt seem like it would be a on the fly button, looks like have to stop and shove pinky in there to activate lol!

Good question. I've used the grapple once since putting on the new switch. You had to use a little more effort to push the button, but that's what I was looking for. When I replaced the original button, funny thing was that it was working again and not sticking. I actually think now that the summer sun and the plastic button weren't playing nicely. I kept the stock button and this winter when I use the grapple more, I can always reinstall it if I don't like the flush button if it's too much of an issue with gloves. Or install the raised version of the stainless flush button:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FS9G4ZJ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_UoUsDb541DT58