3rd Function on Mahindra 4350

/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #1  

irsmun

Bronze Member
Joined
Sep 9, 2012
Messages
94
Location
East TX
Tractor
2024 Mahindra 5145 4WD
Ok, more third function questions. It seems that there needs to be a separate forum topic for this heading. There are hundreds of pages of threads about it and the questions are all relatively the same but with each tractor and need of function they are unique. I like most, fully understand how the hydraulic system works in general practice. I do not however have the confidence to select the valve type I need.

Here are my questions and issues. A kit which runs me $700-$900 gives me convenience but at a pretty high cost. I know I can do this myself and do a cleaner install than the guys at the dealership...because I REALLY care about the look of the installation.

I want to run a grapple...the standard reason for wanting the 3rd function it seems. I want true third function without compromising the flow speed of the system any more than necessary. I do understand from JJ that true third function will run wide open or off. So...

What valve type do I need? It looks like I am simply identifying the PB line from my loader valve and putting this one in the middle with my two control hoses running to the front of the loader.

Do I need a return line for this valve or will it use the return line from the existing PB on the 3 pt?

What are the effects on my 3 pt with this installation? No running it while I am operating 3rd function?

On limiting the 3rd function flow rate...What rate would you suggest to run the grab cylinder? And does the valve come with this adjustment or is this a separate component?

I want to do this project for several reasons. Cost, learning, and getting the job I want done the way I want.

Sorry my title is wrong. I have a dyslexic keyboard. I have the 4530. :)
 
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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #2  
Here is a valve you can use.

12 VDC 10 GPM OC DA SOLENOID VALVE

Here is the subplate.

1 STATION DO3 SUBPLATE OPEN CENTER

This valve setup can be installed after the loader valve and before the 3pt,

Ideally it would be installed close to the front of the tractor in series with the other valves. .

There is no relief for this valve, so it uses the loader relief.

The OUT port of the subplate feeds the next valve.

The solenoid valve will have no flow if the loader is using all the pump flow. The loader valve has priority.

However it can operate if the loader is only using half flow.

It needs 12 volts through a handle switch, and you can wire the switch for momentary operation.

Your 3pt will work normally with no voltage applied, and work somewhat different with the switch on. If you hold the switch down after the cyl is fully extended or retracted, the loader valve will go into relief.

So essentially the normal flow is interrupted for the time the switch is activated.

It is not a big problem as the 3pt is not normally used during loader work.

If you are considering using the 3rd function for a BH or other implement on the back, you need to consider the placement of the solenoid valve so it can be easily accessed.

The return/OUT line goes to the next valve.

You can adjust the rate of operation of the grapple by using a needle valve or a restrictor in the grapple cyl circuit.

You do need the PB adapter on the loader valve or obtain the flow from the hyd block if you have one.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #3  
Double check your GPM flow, I know that I would use a higher GPM rated valve and subplate. ;)
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #4  
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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #5  
I agree that most people do not run a high throttle when they first purchase. But as they get familiar with their machine, a lot of the time the speeds go up. And a lot depends on what they are doing with those machines. The 4530 is a utility size tractor. If he does field work, the throttle work is going to be high. The fluid running through those # 6 fittings is going to heat up. If he just spends another $100 or so, he never has to worry.

Sort of like having a 200MPH car with 160MPH tires. Well they work most of the time without any problems, but if you need that little bit more, well it may very well end up bad,............. or not. Is it worth taking the chance? :confused3:
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#6  
Ok, I am all about having a little more than I need. I bought this tractor to work commercially. I plan on running it hard and often. The grapple is going to be used for small demolition work as well as picking things up.

I am still digesting what was said. A couple of questions...

JJ said I should install it close to the front. When you say "close to the front" do you mean of the tractor, or to the pump, or to the loader valve?

I need help identifying my PB line. There is no documentation to that level that came with the papers. There are three 1/2" lines going to the loader valve. I think I have identified the right one but I can't be sure. Here are some pics showing the lines and my mount option.

IMG_6271e.jpgIMG_6273e.jpgIMG_6269e.jpgIMG_6270e.jpg

I think line 1 is the PB. I cannot tell of the other two which is pressure and which is return. I just don't know enough about hydraulics yet to use the clues of proximity. There is not writing on the valve either. There is another port that is sealed with a hex wrench plug. Is that something I can use?
 

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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #7  
It looks like you have 7 hoses, so you apparently have PB.

Can you remove the fitting from the side of the valve, the one with the 90 degree fitting and look inside the port for a hex screw?

The other way to tell where the PB flow/main flow is to loosen a fitting, and if it leaks with all levers in neutral, that is the PB port.

You can also follow the hose back to the remote or 3pt

All return hoses go to tank and may have tees in it.
 
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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#8  
I'm going to try the "leak" method today. My assumption is that these are compression fittings so the will be no need to use Teflon or pipe dope to re-seal.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#9  
So here I am now...learning. I didn't want to make any modifications until I had a better understanding of the system. After all, I don't want to pay someone to fix my mistakes. I spent about an hour removing plates and following and marking lines. Here is what I have:

DIAG.jpgIMG_6278E.jpg

This is the same picture as before but now with handy dandy color coded zip ties. I have drawn a rudimentary diagram. I did not show flow direction since I don't really know which is going where or if with double acting cylinders if the flow changes.

I could only see two lines leaving the pump. One went to the steering column and the split to the front wheel cylinders. No brainer on that one.

The second line (marked as blue and numbered 3) goes into the loader valve. So does that mean that is the pressure line from the pump?

From the loader valve there are two remaining hoses that are contenders for the PB line. The green line (#2) goes straight to the rear of the tractor. The orange line (#1) goes to an open/shut valve also located at the rear of the tractor. According to Mahindra this valve is there to keep a three point attachment from accidentally moving if you are going long distances with the implement up.

I did the leak test on the #1 orange line as instructed. With the tractor running and the loader on the ground I loosened the fitting. Almost immediately fluid was being pushed out.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #10  
Number three is the INPUT from the pump as the relief valve is just above it.

You can also verify which line is the OUT/return by loosen or remove the hose from that port.

With PB installed, the internal valve chambers are divided so the main flow, flows on to the next valve.

The OUT port will only have fluid flowing when a cyl is being used. No cyl movement, no flow.

All OUT flows from a valve should be open to tank with no restriction.

The descent knob is use to set the 3pt lowering rate and to keep the 3pt secure for transport .

One other way to positively check the main hyd flow via the PB adapter is to install a tee and a 3000 psi gage in the PB line..

If that is the PB line, when you raise the 3pt to relief pressure, the gage will read that pressure.
 
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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#11  
So to clarify...since I had fluid flow when I loosened the fitting, it does indicate PB since no cylinders were engaged at the time?

Understanding how the valve is designed helps too. It looks like the #1 is last in line of the valve chambers. PB is last priority in the valve right?

Does the descent knob indicate PB? In other words, in order for it to function does it need to be set in line between the 3pt and the pressure send?

If this line is indeed the PB what is the other line that also goes directly to the rear?

Sorry if these questions are simple... but so is my understanding at this point. I appreciate your experience and feedback. Thank you.

I really wish the machine came with more detailed construction diagrams and info, but perhaps those are reserved for the mechanics and engineers.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #12  
One of those lines is the return line to sump/tank.

To test that, loosen or remove the line #2 at the rear and there should be no fluid flowing unless a cyl is moving.
 
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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #13  
This is a fun thread to follow, in that I only dream of having additional hydraulic functions on my little, old B8200. When ever I use the rear blade, and hop on and off to adjust tilt or angle, I think about how sweet two more cylinders would be, but of course, not really practical on such a tractor. Still, I enjoy learning a bit about how I "could" do it if I was crazy enough.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#14  
The transmission and the hydraulic tank are common. Who knew? Maybe this is par for the course on tractors...but this is my first tractor so its news to me. Given that info it does add more evidence that the green (#2) hose is the return to the trans and the #1 hose is PB. I am going to do the final test JJ mentioned and loosen the #2 hose to check for flow.

Just so my intentions are clear, I plan on following this thread out all the way through the install...so don't get irritated with me. I'm going to ask questions...dumb ones even. Better to ask than to break something. :)
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#15  
MtnViewRanch, how high should I go on the valve flow? Should I surpass the 10.9 gpm rating and if so how much is acceptable?
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #16  
You only need to meet the pump flow.

The 12 GPM subplate and valve I posted above will be more than satisfactory for the tractor flow.

Even a 10 GPM valve will work as most people will not run the engine at full throttle all the time.

Engine rpm is related to pump flow.

You gain nothing by using a larger valve.

What if the other valve in the series path are 10 GPM valves, would you use a larger valve.

The size of the valve ports will allow a certain flow..

http://www.insanehydraulics.com/library/hosesizing.html

Pull the yellow dot down to the flow in GPM, and you will see the port size necessary for that flow, at the flow velocity.
 
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/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#17  
Ok, but how high can I go? I am shopping for valves (and prices) and I have found a 16.8 gpm at 4500psi for $110.

Northman Fluid Power Hydraulic Directional Control Valve – 16.8 GPM, 4500 PSI, 3-Position, Double Solenoid, Open Center Spool, 12 Volt DC Solenoids, Model# SWH-G02-C3-D12-10 | Power Solenoid| Northern Tool + Equipment

The subplate is $40.

Northman Fluid Power Single-Station Subplate — NFPA D03 Pattern, 3/8in. NPT Side Ports, Model# M02-03-S-2 | Control Valve Accessories| Northern Tool + Equipment

Would these work? I looks like the only difference is that its 3/8 for the tank and pressure. Would that affect flow to the 3pt?
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #18  
The valve you posted is an open center valve for a hyd motor or cyl and in neutral, the work ports are common.

I can't find the valve for you from Northern.

You need a tandem spool so the cyl are locked in neutral.

The solenoid valve from Baileys will work.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350
  • Thread Starter
#19  
I am ok with the bailey valve...its the subplate that made me gasp. Its over twice the price of the others. I was looking to stay under $200 for both and the more the better. I still have to price a control grip, the hoses, some 90's and a pair of quick connects.
 
/ 3rd Function on Mahindra 4350 #20  

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