I have a Ford / New Holland 1920 tractor and loader model 7308 and a Woods BH9000 backhoe. I'm looking to install a grapple on the loader to move brush and logs around on my property. I've been reading many of the threads about this and have a fairly good understanding of what needs to be done. I would like to go with true 3rd function hydraulics. The kits seem to be a bit pricey but maybe they are worth it. I believe I located the loader valve and the power beyond port running to the loader controls. These are plumed with pipe instead of hoses. Could I get some help with this? Is it worth the $700 or $800 to purchase a kit? How hard is it to plumb with my tractor being hard plumed?
3rd function for new grapple
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MtnViewRanch
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If you went with a diverter, it will be a lot easier. No hard lines to fool with, just unplug the loader curl circuit lines, run those to the diverter and do some new hoses to and from the diverter, you're all set. A lot of people think that they need a true 3rd function for whatever reason, in reality the majority of people do not, let alone actually make use of doing 3 functions at the same time.
Just my :2cents:, good luck
Just my :2cents:, good luck
moriboy
Gold Member
fwiw, I am using a grapple to move large rocks for a retaining wall. Having 3 functions is very handy. I can curl, close, and raise the grapple at the same time. This is very handy for sure. If I was to loose the curl function, tasks like this aren't nearly as efficient although doable.
ovrszd
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I tend to agree with Moriboy. Even though it's more cost I believe you'll be happier in the long run if you rig up third function of some sort.
Here's what I did on my old L4400. I bought a new loader valve that has joystick control of the loader with a third circuit controlled by the single lever you see in the photos. Then I moved my original joystick controller to the right rear fender and used it to control two rear remote circuits. The handle configuration of the loader and 3rd function was such that I could, most times, run all three functions at once. Only time I'd have reach issues was when trying to lower/uncurl and close grapple at same time. I could have shortened the joystick handle a couple inches and overcame that.
I believe I bought the new valve at Dalton Hydraulics but can't remember for sure. I also can't remember exactly but want to say the valve was $350. So by the time I bought the valve, four sets of quick couplers and all the various hoses I'm guessing I had $550 in parts. But in the end I added a 3rd function to the loader and two rear remotes to the tractor. Pretty cheap when you look at it that way. Especially since I just paid $750 to add a 3rd rear remote to my M9540.
Here's pics.
Here's what I did on my old L4400. I bought a new loader valve that has joystick control of the loader with a third circuit controlled by the single lever you see in the photos. Then I moved my original joystick controller to the right rear fender and used it to control two rear remote circuits. The handle configuration of the loader and 3rd function was such that I could, most times, run all three functions at once. Only time I'd have reach issues was when trying to lower/uncurl and close grapple at same time. I could have shortened the joystick handle a couple inches and overcame that.
I believe I bought the new valve at Dalton Hydraulics but can't remember for sure. I also can't remember exactly but want to say the valve was $350. So by the time I bought the valve, four sets of quick couplers and all the various hoses I'm guessing I had $550 in parts. But in the end I added a 3rd function to the loader and two rear remotes to the tractor. Pretty cheap when you look at it that way. Especially since I just paid $750 to add a 3rd rear remote to my M9540.
Here's pics.
Wow ovrszd what a lot of work. How did you hook up the new valve? Did you use the power beyond port? The problem with mine is it hard plumed. I've been thinking of just using the rear remotes to a new valve and then grapple. Then MntViewRanch suggested the diverter valve. That seems to be the quickest and least expensive.
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ovrszd
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I followed up on that valve and actually I got it from Surplus Center. Easy to find at their website Surplus Center - Hydraulics, Engines, Electrical and More Today's cost is $381.95.
I simply replaced the factory valve with the new 3rd function valve, then PB to my old loader valve which I mounted on the fender, then PB to the 3pt as it was from the factory. Was very simple.
As for being hard plumbed that would add some complexity but still could be overcome easily. Whatever hard lines you will move can be replaced with hoses with the proper end fittings.
I agree the diverter is the easiest and cheapest. Not the best, but easiest and cheapest. Do all you can afford. Since I bought my M9540 in September with 3rd function I'd guess I've used that function 5,000 times. Yeah, I know,,,, that's probably a low guess,,,, probably closer to 10,000 times. But I use my Grapple a LOT. Do All You Can Afford.
I simply replaced the factory valve with the new 3rd function valve, then PB to my old loader valve which I mounted on the fender, then PB to the 3pt as it was from the factory. Was very simple.
As for being hard plumbed that would add some complexity but still could be overcome easily. Whatever hard lines you will move can be replaced with hoses with the proper end fittings.
I agree the diverter is the easiest and cheapest. Not the best, but easiest and cheapest. Do all you can afford. Since I bought my M9540 in September with 3rd function I'd guess I've used that function 5,000 times. Yeah, I know,,,, that's probably a low guess,,,, probably closer to 10,000 times. But I use my Grapple a LOT. Do All You Can Afford.
All, thank for your help. I went with the Trausch Dynamics Select Plus electric valve kit and The Thumb from Greens Machine. I don't know allot about hydraulics so this was quite an experience. The valve had 1/2" ports and my tractor has 3/8" hose and fittings. I had no idea there are so many kinds of fittings. Went through many of them until i found the correct ones. Spent the weekend getting hook up and use it for the first time today. Works great. I will add some pictures soon.