Which is more common: 1/2" or 3/8" couplers?

[AllenArmory]

I ordered a TYM T554, which arrived at the dealer this week. Previously, I ordered an EA grapple and had it sent to the dealer. When they went to hook up the grapple, they found that EA uses 1/2" couplers and the tractor has 3/8" couplers. The dealer ordered a coupler adapter to resolve this.

Is an adapter the right solution? Should I have told EA to put 3/8" couplers on the grapple? Which is more common?

Thanks!

 

[DT86]

Why order an adaptor instead of the correct ends?

 

[kennyd]

1/2" is much more common on mid to large sizes CUT's and AG tractors.

I agree with DT though, Why an "adapter"?

 

[AllenArmory]

I'll ask the dealer today. This is my first tractor and I didn't realize they made two separate sizes.

 

[BukitCase]

" I didn't realize they made two separate sizes"

Oh, they make a few more than two...

ISO 5675 Agricultural Hydraulic Quick Couplers

On that page, I'd recommend looking at the far RIGHT column and matching the hydraulic flow of your tractor - 3/8" has LESS flow than the model you're getting, 1/2" has MORE - Check hydraulic specs lower right on this page(if you don't already know)
TractorData.com TYM T554 tractor information

if it were me, I'd use 1/2" on that tractor so you can get full flow if needed - (some implements are "thirstier" than others) the 9.5 gpm is what your non-steering flow would be.

You can always bush DOWN in size for things that need less flow (AND more flexible hoses) - in fact, you may find that adapting the grapple DOWN to 3/8" works better for you - for a grapple lid slower gives you a bit more control.

Just something to consider... Steve

 

[ovrszd]

And adding to Steve's excellent advice. If you buy any more attachments they will most likely be 1/2". I'd simply convert the tractor. Actually,,,,,, since I'm taking possession of a new tractor from a dealer, I'd suggest to him that he convert your tractor to the more common 1/2" couplers.

 

[BukitCase]

And, (to add to Richard's excellent advice ) do NOT let the dealer just cobble some crap on there that ENDS UP in 1/2" - instead, tell them you want NOTHING added that will restrict the flow your tractor develops. Meaning, no "adapters" from 3/8 to 1/2", etc - some dealers hire REAL mechanics/techs, others try to save on salaries and end up screwing the customer because of it. If you see something they did on your machine that doesn't look "beefy" enough, take a pic or three and ask here.

The alternative can be disappointment down the road when you THINK you can use an implement on your tractor til you actually TRY it... Steve

 

[AllenArmory]

Thanks for the advice, guys. So why did TYM put the 3/8" couplers on the tractor in the first place? They came this way from the factory. I may ask on the TYM forum what they have on their tractors.

 

[AllenArmory]

And adding to Steve's excellent advice. If you buy any more attachments they will most likely be 1/2". I'd simply convert the tractor. Actually,,,,,, since I'm taking possession of a new tractor from a dealer, I'd suggest to him that he convert your tractor to the more common 1/2" couplers.

How expensive would it be to do that? Wouldn't that mean replacing all of the hydraulic lines?

Is it necessary? By converting to 1/2" lines, would I get the full 9.5gpm in each line or is this flow rate divided up among all the lines?

Sorry for all the rookie questions.

 

[BukitCase]

Tubing is measured normally by OD, while pipe and hose are measured by ID (inside diameter) - without actually seeing that tractor it's difficult to tell what they've done. It's possible that they've rated the tractor's non-steering flow by the total flow of all non-steering lines combined, kind of like manufacturers used to do with stereos, and several still do with air compressors.

If you've actually measured the tubing on your tractor and found it to be 3/8, then I'd say they've rated it by TOTAL flow - if that's the case I doubt there would be any gain by going to larger QD's other than strength and compatibility.

You may want to print this thread out and ask your dealer/service tech what's typical of TYM tractors and how they rate them - that should give you a better idea of what's going on... Steve