MX5100DT w FEL needs rear Remote - help

NCRetiree · Nov 21, 2010

I have a relatively new (1 month old) MX5100 with front end loader and a 3rd function remote installed for a future grapple or thumb.

A friend of mine has a 3ph hydrolic log splitter that he says I can use. Unfortunately I do not have any remotes located on the rear.

Is there anyway I can use the third function remote in the front or FEL hookups to power the log splitter? I doubt if the hoses for the log splitter will reach meaning I might have to unhook the log slitter and set it up on its legs and pull the tractor around so the hoses reach the FEL hookups. Could this work?

If not, what is the easiest (and most economical way to hook up the log splitter? I have read but don't understand how the power beyond works. I am reluctant to break open the hydrolics as I just got the tractor and it has no leaks and everything works great. I also do not anticipate needing rear remotes for anything other than the very occasional log splitting.

Thanks as you can tell I am learning as I go.

Chilly807 · Nov 21, 2010

Essentially, the power beyond provides a flow of high pressure oil to all valves in the hydraulic system, which are connected in series. In your case, if the tractor is plumbed like most, the oil flow goes to the FEL first, then leaves via the power beyond port of the FEL valve (marked "BY"), then goes to the 3 point hitch valve.

The PB function permits you to operate more than one hydraulic valve at once without having to isolate the ones you aren't using.

You may be able to simply get longer hoses with quick connects (effectively extensions) and use them in place of two of the loader hoses coming from the joystick valve. You hold or bungee cord the loader valve in one position to cause oil flow through the extension hoses, which are in turn connected to the wood splitter hoses/valve. I THINK that might work, some of the other guys might have different ideas. If you do go that route, I'd suggest using the hoses that raise/lower the loader boom, less chance of dangling the splitter like a necklace if something goes wrong.

If you can afford it, I think you're better off to add a set of rear remotes, whether you need them for anything else now or not. I just added some to my 3400 (see thread). I didn't need mine for almost a year, then wanted to add a hydraulic cylinder to my rear grader blade.

In the end it cost me less than I originally thought. Check with your dealer to see what he wants to add a set of remotes, you might be surprised.

Sean