Spool valves. Float function vs non Float function.

[joea99]

I'm looking to convert my 2 spool (standard A spools) to latching float on at least one spool.

The supplier of my valve has a latching detents available which seems to address that.

However, despite discussing it with them, I am getting confused over how that can work, with the same "A" type spool as I don't see how simply adding a "Detent" can add a "float" function simply by "latching" in the "upward" position, vs having the lever pressed all the way "up". Is there internal "plumbing" in this "Detent" that is not obvious?

I want it to be so, as this is by far the most economical way for me to add a float feature, but, if it does not work as desired, wasted money.

It's after hours at that the supplier, so, I won't get an answer for some time.

 

[oldnslo]

Normally float would require replacing the spool and also adding the detent feature. Spool requires 4th float position and detent feature Depending on valve manufacturer they may or may not sell you the parts to do this conversion.

 

[dicktill]

I'm looking to convert my 2 spool (standard A spools) to latching float on at least one spool.

The supplier of my valve has a latching detents available which seems to address that.

However, despite discussing it with them, I am getting confused over how that can work, with the same "A" type spool as I don't see how simply adding a "Detent" can add a "float" function simply by "latching" in the "upward" position, vs having the lever pressed all the way "up". Is there internal "plumbing" in this "Detent" that is not obvious?
View attachment 3194431
I want it to be so, as this is by far the most economical way for me to add a float feature, but, if it does not work as desired, wasted money.

It's after hours at that the supplier, so, I won't get an answer for some time.

Sounds like B.S. to me.

"Is there internal "plumbing" in this "Detent" that is not obvious?" Not unless they invented a new sort of "pixie dust".

Who is the supplier?

 

[joea99]

Sounds like B.S. to me.

"Is there internal "plumbing" in this "Detent" that is not obvious?" Not unless they invented a new sort of "pixie dust".

Who is the supplier?

Supplier did not make any claim like that, just my own speculation as to possibility.

 

[joea99]

Normally float would require replacing the spool and also adding the detent feature. Spool requires 4th float position and detent feature Depending on valve manufacturer they may or may not sell you the parts to do this conversion.

That was my original understanding. Still thinking a "float spool" is required.

 

[Harry in Ky]

Correct. A float spool is indeed required, but simply replacing (and/or swapping) spools in most hydraulic control valves is not an option. If you want a valve with a float function you switch to a valve WITH a float function. You don't simply ADD a float function. Yes, you can add a detent feature to some valves. I've done that on occasion, but float is a different matter.

 

[ptsg]

Those P40, P80 and P120 valves made by Badestnost but rebranded to various brands, like Summit for instance, have various spools available for them that can be easily changed. Motor spools, single acting, double acting, float, etc.

 

[rScotty]

Correct. A float spool is indeed required, but simply replacing (and/or swapping) spools in most hydraulic control valves is not an option. If you want a valve with a float function you switch to a valve WITH a float function. You don't simply ADD a float function. Yes, you can add a detent feature to some valves. I've done that on occasion, but float is a different matter.

And there's the answer - a control valve made with a float function usually has a detent, but just adding a detent to hold a control in one position doesn't make float.

 

[dicktill]

Supplier did not make any claim like that, just my own speculation as to possibility.

My call of B.S. was in regards to: "The supplier of my valve has a latching detents available which seems to address that. However, despite discussing it with them, I am getting confused over how that can work, with the same "A" type spool as I don't see how simply adding a "Detent" can add a "float" function simply by "latching" in the "upward" position, vs having the lever pressed all the way "up". "

 

[joea99]

My call of B.S. was in regards to: "The supplier of my valve has a latching detents available which seems to address that. However, despite discussing it with them, I am getting confused over how that can work, with the same "A" type spool as I don't see how simply adding a "Detent" can add a "float" function simply by "latching" in the "upward" position, vs having the lever pressed all the way "up". "

Further discussion has cleared up the confusion on my part. A different spool and detent are required and apparently not readily available.

I'm not sure I need a float anyway, for the Top and Tilt (just the tilt) but some have said it can be useful in some cases for box blade or rake use.