Third Function Preference

[mangus580]

I just did a quick search for this, and didnt see a thread that seemed to have what I want.

What is the preference for Third Function - using a bypass for the bucket curl? Or adding a complete power beyond valve? (if adding a power beyond, electric solenoid vs actual manual valve)

I am trying to decide which way I will go when I finally get my FEL. So far, my only current plans for such a use, will be to angle a snow plow blade.... but a grapple could be in my future ;-)

 

[murphy1244]

if I was going to a 3rd function I would go with a true 3rd funtion

 

[nybirdman]

I have Kubota's third function on the joy stick.Expensive but worth it.W.R. Long also makes a third function kit.
Mine is used for a FEL mounted snow plow and a thumb on my bucket(summer).

 

[MtnViewRanch]

It seems that there are many people that think that they want the true 3rd function so that the are able to lift, curl and close their grapple all at the same time. Others go with a simple diverter valve, so you can't curl and close the grapple simultaneously. It's one or the other. The diverter valve setup is usually about $200 less than the true 3rd function setup. The diverter valve setup is much easier to install than the true 3rd function. Is one better than the other, I can't say.

I don't know if there is an actual overall preference. There are plenty of both out there and just like so many things, what a person has is what they usually think is best.

 

[DT86]

if I was going to a 3rd function I would go with a true 3rd funtion

I'll second that. The diverter valves work but the true 3rd function, although a little more expensive, is worth it.

 

[mangus580]

I know Surplus Center carries solenoid activated diverter valves... Does anyone have a link for an actual power beyond solenoid valve?


One thing that I know is nice about using the diverter, is it leaves you with the variable control ability from the main loader valve. I have noticed most 3rd function setups that are dedicated are solenoid operated, making it an on/off only function. Now, with that said, I cant think of too many applications where it might matter in the end. I guess its not like you need to feather a snow plow angle, or grapple closing....

 

[J_J]

One of these Surplus Center - 12 VDC 10 GPM OC DA SOLENOID VALVE

One of these Surplus Center - 1 STATION DO3 SUBPLATE OPEN CENTER

These valves are all PB.

 

[mangus580]

Ok - I had seen those but wasnt sure if they were PB.... Is a Power Beyond valve the same as an 'open center' valve?

 

[J_J]

PB refers to the ability to handle the high pressure.

Open center valve is a valve that the hyd are connected in series. Fluid is always flowing in an open center valve.

Technically each valve should have PB, except the last valve and it dumps to tank.

A closed center valve is a valve where the fluid only flows when a lever is activated, and they are all connected in parrallel.

A closed center valve does not use PB outlet.

 

[kennyd]

Wow, such misinformation here...