3rd function vavle

[Redbusa]

I have a tractor on order and I ordered a 3rd function valve for it.
I don't think it would be too hard to install myself.

My question is: Has anyone on here ever installed a 3rd function valve themselves?

And if so, is there anything you wished you knew before you started?
Or do you have any tips to pass along to someone wanting to do it them self?

The dealer indicated that they only have installed 1 or 2 and they charge $225 and it takes
about an hour. I try to keep things I own in good condition and someone working on my tractor
is not going to be as fussy as I'm going to be, in most cases. So I'm considering installing it myself,
unless someone here has a good reason to spend the money instead.

Is anyone able to give advice?

 

[ParisKy]

If they do it, then they have to troubleshoot it if it does not work. They also know the tricks/tips, and have the right tools for the install. It is worth the $$ to have it done by the company, and ready to go when you receive the tractor. Also 225 is a small amount when you look at total money invested in your purchase. Just my opinion.

 

[oosik]

For the $225 - I would have the dealership do the instal. At least, they have the experience & tools. AND they don't have to ask for help.

 

[markie61]

This is an opinion coming from someone who usually insists on doing everything himself: me! On the RK55, there is a switch, wires, relay, direct-battery hookup, hydraulic plumbing, plus the mechanical mounts, etc. I spoke with the technician about getting a copy of the installation/owner's manual for the 3rd function and he said it was pretty useless. As others have have noted, if you have have RK install it, they will be responsible for it for the next year. Mine hangs up occasionally and is being replace under warranty.

 

[AWSubie]

If you can weld simple brackets and have a basic set of tools (plus 2 sets of hydraulic wrenches) then you can easily install a third function. I designed my own installation based upon all the information provided here on TractorByNet. You need to take time upfront planning your design; where you want to mount your valve; whether you want relays or direct power to the solenoid valve; if u want quick disconnects at the loader arm so that u can easily remove the loader; etc.

 

[Redbusa]

If they do it, then they have to troubleshoot it if it does not work. They also know the tricks/tips, and have the right tools for the install. It is worth the $$ to have it done by the company, and ready to go when you receive the tractor. Also 225 is a small amount when you look at total money invested in your purchase. Just my opinion.

The way I understand it the COMPANY (manufacturer) no longer installs the 3rd FV's.
So now it's up to the dealers (RK workers) to install them.
As I said it appeared from talking with them that they have only done 1 or 2.
Also they are 140 miles from me one way so it's not like I can take it to them easily.

That's why I'm considering doing it myself. I was in skilled trades for over 20years and do most of my own work when I can.

 

[g8erh8er]

The way I understand it the COMPANY (manufacturer) no longer installs the 3rd FV's.
So now it's up to the dealers (RK workers) to install them.
As I said it appeared from talking with them that they have only done 1 or 2.
Also they are 140 miles from me one way so it's not like I can take it to them easily.

That's why I'm considering doing it myself. I was in skilled trades for over 20years and do most of my own work when I can.

If you search my past posts you will come across one where I had to redo the poor job that RK did. Granted it was only the wiring portion. Anyway there are some pics that may be helpful to you if you decide to do it yourself.

 

[Redbusa]

I picked up my tractor and the third function valve was on it from the factory.
I was surprised because I thought that the factory didn't install them any more.
The dealer said some come with it on and other don't. Maybe the more you order - they put it on?
Because I told the dealer that I would install it - he didn't charge me the fee.
So I was happy about that. I still need to look it over real good and when it stops raining I"ll do just that.
I need to make some room to drop the BH and FEL so I can mow and roll my yard.
Then I hope to order some top soil to fill in some spots in the yard.
Now if only I could get rid of the moles that keep making mounds and tunnels.

 

[i7win7]

Now if only I could get rid of the moles that keep making mounds and tunnels.

Same problem with moles.

 

[ovrszd]

Same problem with moles.

I've never saw an implement like that. Assuming you control the cut depth with the 3pt? Is the roller full of something for weight? Isn't that quite a load for your BX if trying to cut?

 

[g8erh8er]

I've never saw an implement like that. Assuming you control the cut depth with the 3pt? Is the roller full of something for weight? Isn't that quite a load for your BX if trying to cut?

Here ya go ovrszd. Interestingly enough, RK actually carries this implement, online at least. I could definitely use one of these as I have 8 acres to till and smooth. My plan is to smooth by dragging the rear edge of a box blade. This would be ideal. Too $$ for me though.

Hoelscher Rolling Box Scraper RB-R

 

[i7win7]

I've never saw an implement like that. Assuming you control the cut depth with the 3pt? Is the roller full of something for weight? Isn't that quite a load for your BX if trying to cut?

Hoelscher Commercial Products They make some interesting tractor implements.

Have 3 tractors with QH. Ford 4000 for serious work. B2650 light duty touch-ups, BX2370 lawn rolling - best done early spring when ground is starting to firm up.

I have 40 gal. of cheap hydraulic oil in it as rust prevention. The box blade can collect enough material to spin 2 loaded tires with diff lock engaged on the Ford.

 

[chester40391]

I have a tractor on order and I ordered a 3rd function valve for it.
I don't think it would be too hard to install myself.

My question is: Has anyone on here ever installed a 3rd function valve themselves?

And if so, is there anything you wished you knew before you started?
Or do you have any tips to pass along to someone wanting to do it them self?

The dealer indicated that they only have installed 1 or 2 and they charge $225 and it takes
about an hour. I try to keep things I own in good condition and someone working on my tractor
is not going to be as fussy as I'm going to be, in most cases. So I'm considering installing it myself,
unless someone here has a good reason to spend the money instead.

Is anyone able to give advice?

I have a similar mentality, I have high standards and am constantly let down when someone else does any work for me. I dont trust anyone. I try to do it all myself if I can. I uncrated and installed the backhoe myself. If they provided instructions I would 100% install the 3rd function myself. I just had it installed by RK two days ago. The excuses started flying right away. "Only second one I've done, I, didnt know you had a cab. I dont have UV glasses (I will get to that), I am the only one here, the plastic clips dont go back right" All good signs I am about to be unhappy. I took pictures of before and after. Shift boot is disconnected from either side. It was glued to the cab interior so it's just left loose flopping around ripped from the base. 1 plastic clip missing and most of them are chewed up from lack of care/improper tool usage. The plastic molding by the seat had to be removed. It was not seated correctly and I will have to take it back apart to re-seat it properly. It is also beat up.

I've had an AC issue since I've had the tractor and I figured out the issue but not sure how to fix it. I had a workaround so I wasn't making the trip just to get it looked and likely still not get fixed. Since j was taking it for the 3rd function install I wanted them to finally fix it.

The salesman was aware and I told the repair guy when the appointment was set up. Since it didnt seem like he wanted to look at it I called to remind him after dropping it off and told him again what the problem is "well I wont have the parts" he very much didn't want to look at it. It's the push pull rod behind the control panel, something is missing that should keep the rod from flexing so that it can move the actuator when turned to cold. I can take the control panel lose and push the actuator manually and it works fine. If I go back to heat it wont go cold again. When he called aglfter the install he said he put some freon and dye in it but doesnt have any glasses. "I think you have a leak". OMG SMH. I will fix it myself. I am always dissatisfied with thes things. Now I have a tractor that looks 20 years older on the entierior. Oh the shift knob is lose already, I hope that's just tightening a screw. When talking about the missing clip or whatever for the AC he said "I dont have a clue how to get back in there" I do, you take the plastic ceiling off the interior cab roof. He just didnt want the problem. I'm going to stop now, I just cant ...

 

[markie61]

The salesman was aware and I told the repair guy when the appointment was set up.

Which store? Service appears to vary from store to store - some get better responses than me while others get worse. Even though they no longer participate on TBN forums, I'm pretty sure RK is monitoring them. It'd be good to call attention to both the good ones and the bad ones. For instance in good new, the Leesburg FL and Wytheville VA stores have created their own Facebook pages, while the the Sweetwater TN repair department has one - nice they care enough.

 

[Myz28u]

I’ve been trying to get my 3rd function kit for 4 weeks now. It’s killing me to let my Artillian grapple sit when I’ve got so much work to do. I got caught up in the middle of the salesman getting the boot or quitting (not sure witch one) so my order got lost in space somewhere, if it was ever ordered. Fortunately I got in touch with the service dept and the tech said he would take care of getting it for me. He has at least been in touch with me letting me know status updates this week.

 

[markie61]

... the salesman getting the boot or quitting ... the tech said he would take care of getting it for me. He has at least been in touch with me letting me know status updates this week.

Which store?

 

[Myz28u]

Which store?

Martinsville Va

 

[kthompson]

That is an interesting implement.