W.R. Long vs DIY 3rd function?

[MtnViewRanch]

Yeah, I really think I'd rather have the electrical control. I've run them on skid steers and like it.

So... in addition to the solenoid and subplate what else would I need?
For hydraulics, I'm thinking short hose/connector from PB to valve, hose from valve back to PB hookup on tractor, two hoses/connectors out to FEL.

For controls, where to find a joystick?

Anything else I'm not thinking of?

Do you need a true 3rd function, or can you get by with a diverter valve? A diverter is easier to plumb IMO. How about a control handle like this type?

 

[jshwhite]

Do you have a FEL now, and is it a manual valve.

Here is a joystick valve with PB.

Surplus Center - 2 SPOOL COMPACT 10 GPM JOYSTICK CONTROL VALVE.

Surplus Center - BRAND POWER BEYOND KIT

Hose from FEL PB to IN port on subplate and hose from subplate OUT to the next valve, and two work port hoses to the grapple. Keep in mind that the grapple will be fast unless you needle valve the flow.

Yes, I've got a FEL with a 4way plus PB valve. I'd like a push button control like WR Long has - any good places to find that?

 

[J_J]

MtnViewRanch just posted a website for the handle and switches.

Scorpion Technologies LTD. - Stock 2

 

[jshwhite]

So...I'm a little confused here. I know if installing a manual valve for 3rd function it's important that it has a PB. But with the solenoid option, what maintains PB? Is that what the "open center" on the subplate does?

Thanks for putting up with my ignorant questions

 

[J_J]

The subplate ports are high pressure both IN and OUT, and will suffice as a PB port for the next valve downstream. It is placed in series with the other valves.

 

[jshwhite]

So I can take my existing PB line, essentially "cut" it in half and put this subplate in it (with the associated solenoid), and I'm good to go?

 

[J_J]

A hyd line can be considered a PB line if the source can handle high pressure, such as the PB port with PB fitting installed, or a hyd subplate.

You could cut your line and add new fittings, but most would just get new hose the irght size and make everything fit right.

Your flow might be something like this. Pump to FEL valve, PB out of FEL valve to 3ed function valve, then to remote valves, then to 3pt.

The first valve after the pump will have priority, and if it is using all the fluid, none will go through the PB port. If you use half lever, then the 3ed function can work at the same time as the FEL valve.

 

[J_J]

Northern tools has these 3ed function valves in different GPM ratings. $109 - $139.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200516548_200516548

DO3 hyd subplate $39.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200326790_200326790

Hoses - Surplus Center

 

[avc8130]

The only real "fun" part of the whole deal is finding the right fittings. The area gets tight in and around the FEL valve, so you will need to find the right mix of elbows/adapters/etc to make it all work. Kubota uses fittings that have O-ring seals and can be oriented after tightened for sealing.

ac

 

[RancherGuy]

Kubota uses fittings that have O-ring seals and can be oriented after tightened for sealing.

I think those o-ring fittings are called Boss fittings. The threads are straight and the o-ring provides the seal. I have found a wealth of fittings at discounthydraulichose.com.

Note: if a fitting is currently Boss, an NPT (pipe thread) can be used it its place, but I find that it alters the hole so that afterwards Boss no longer reliably works.