Y or T Connector for Easier Implement Change?

[catsco]

I've been doing some excavation that requires frequent changing between the grapple bucket and mini-hoe.

Some of the work I've done by NOT connect the bucket and mini-hoe hydraulics so I can change quickly.

Has anyone added a 'T' or 'Y' with valve(s) to avoid the tiresome steps of:

1. shut off the tractor, move control to relieve pressure
2. change hoses
3. start tractor, release quick attach, change implements
4. shut off the tractor, change hoses again

Seems like with tees or wyes and a diverter, you could eliminate swapping hoses twice.

What is the correct 'callout' to ask for to buy fittings for the PT425 hoses?

Thanks!

Mark H.

 

[pajoube]

All I can do is add support for this. I have really no idea what would be required but it sure would be handy.
Many times I do not hook up the 4 in 1 bucket hoses to save time switching between this and the mini hoe.
PJ

 

[J_J]

I believe that most of the fittings on the hoses are JIC flare fittings. However there are probably some pipe fittings on all the machines, and some o-ring BOSS fittings . The fitting size can be determined by looking into the smallest part of the fitting. Small hose would have a 1/8, or 1/4 opening. These openings equates to a number. If you go to the web site fittingsandadapters.com . you should see about every hydraulic fitting available. The prices are very good.
Some fittings are the same on both ends, and other fittings have one type fitting on one end and different fitting on the other end. In order not to make mistakes, take in the old hose and the hose repair people will make up the correct hose.

 

[Rip]

Mark,

I know what you are going through as I do the same with my grapple rake and other attachments.

One possibility would be to hook up a separate circuit with its own valve that would stay permenantly connected to the Quick Attach cylinder.

Another would be to plumb a manual (push/pull) diverter valve after the existing Aux valve with the second circuit hooked directly to the QA cylinder all the time.

This would leave the existing Aux circuit hose couplings available just for such things as the 4-in-1 bucket or mini hoe without having to swap back and forth to latch and unlatch the QA set up. I have been thinking of doing this to my 1845, but have not gotten around to it yet.

Glad to hear you "got right back up on that horse" and have been putting your PT to good use. It is quite a capable machine isn't it?

Good Luck, Rip

 

[catsco]

Hi Rip--

Thanks for the reply. You understand exactly what I need to do!

I hadn't thought about a push/pull valve, but that is probably easier to purchase than a ball type.

My thinking about putting the Y or T at the connection (with disconnects) is that no hoses or fittings are altered or even disconnected to add and/or remove the T or Y.

When I get the parts I need I'll post a pic.

Can you recommend a possible source in the Denver metro area for hydraulic stuff? Larkspur is much closer to the Springs, but COS seems to be a small town that got big without having access to tools, equipment, etc. I almost always end up on Santa Fe Drive or in Commerce City for this type of stuff.
Mark H.

PS--getting 'back in the saddle' wasn't too traumatic as the rollover incident involved keeping all the blood and bones inside. Looking back at that day, it was a bit surreal, and didn't even seem like an accident since no damage was done to the PT and the tipping was 'slow-motion' onto pine needles.

Using a comealong to get it back on the wheels was also really easy.

Someone is definitely watching out for me.

 

[Rip]

Mark,

What I called a diverter valve is really a Double Selector valve and shifts the flow from both lines at the same time by a lever or by pushing or pulling a knob about a 1/2 ". It must have 6 ports total, and I would plumb it right after the existing three-spool control valve.

I know the the idea of a T that would just plug into the couplers sound attractive from one perspective, but I think you would also end up with a real snarl of hoses and fittings that would be prone to becoming pinched or snagged on something. There really is no reason that the QA cylinder has to have a coupling other than to share the circuit as it does now.

Remember also that the fewer fittings and conections (especially couplers) you have in a fluid system, the better. This is not only from a pressure loss/flow restriction standpoint, but from a potential leak standpoint.

The original two 1/4" hoses with the male couplers would connect to one pair of output ports and the second pair of output ports would feed a new longer set of hoses that would go straight to the QA cylinder. You can remove and save the female couplers and use the hoses that you remove from the QA cylinder to connect the input of the Selector Valve to the output from the original spool valve or get a new pair of short hoses made up.

This will involve a valve for around $85 plus hoses and a minimum of fittings. This should be a neat and perminant solution that should not interfere with anything now or later. These are common parts and very likely available in CS.

I have gotten hyd parts at Struble Fluid Power (2301 S Platt River Dr) and Fluid Power Tech at 6510 N Washington. Most any hyd shop will have what you need though.

All this rain has really been amazing... over 7" in past 5 weeks up here... really helps with the fire danger, at least for a while.

Good Luck, Rip