Will an old 4100 run a 4-way loader bucket?

[Pete O]

As part of the rejuvenation of my Ford 4100 I need to do a bit of work on the loader, the bucket was pretty rusty and I tore it apart trying to move a stump so, one way or another, I need to build or buy a new loader bucket. I'm contemplating fitting a 4-way bucket; wondering whether the transmission-mounted hydraulic pump would have enough flow to make it worthwhile? I haven't been able to find any specs on what flow-rate the pump delivers. It's a brand new pump.

 

[BukitCase]

Man, this is one of the few times tractordata.com failed me - not a WORD about hydraulics on that model...
It does, however, show two different loader options -

TractorData.com Ford 41 tractor attachments information

Typically 4n1 buckets are heavier and less capacity than regular ones, found that out when I was drooling over one for my old 580B - so you'd probably lose a bit of lift capacity, but other than that I would think that the versatility would be more noticeable than speed. Most hydraulics can really only do one thing at a time anyway, so you'd just be choosing among THREE options (lift, curl, OR CLAMSHELL) -

Also, unless you can find a replacement loader valve you'll need a way to run the clamshell; my preference on that would be a solenoid diverter valve, usually on the curl circuit (unless regen messes you up)

I would go for it, if you can even FIND a 4n1 for yours - and if you decide to fab your own, you'll likely get a LOT of followers on your build thread... Steve

 

[alchemysa]

wondering whether the transmission-mounted hydraulic pump would have enough flow to make it worthwhile?

'Flow' won't be a problem. Flow-rate is only an issue if you are running attachments with hydraulic motors that require continuous 'feeding'. But 4in1's just have a couple of extra cylinders that require occasional filling and draining. If your pump can run the standard loader then it will run the 4in1 just fine. The main problem you will encounter is the additional weight of the 4in1 bucket. Find out how much the 4in1 weighs then work out if your tractor can lift that (plus the load) comfortably.