Adding Grapple Control to Kubota B21

[Olalla Tractor]

Hi y'all, nice to be here. I'm new to building hydraulics....

I bought a used Kubota B21 and would like to add a grapple to the front of the loader. I am wondering about the best way to add an in cab control for the top grapple cylinider. Is there a good place to plumb in to the existing hydraulics? I've seen electric and mechanical valving, just need some advice.
Thanks!

 

[J_J]

Add one of these valves to the curl cyl circuit.

You could use a selector/diverter valve and mount it at a convenient place.

6 GPM solenoid valve for grapple.

Surplus Center - SAE 8 6 GPM DOUBLE SELECTOR VALVE 12 VDC P15544-2

Inctructions
http://www.surpluscenter.com/Instruct/I9-5117-A.pdf

15 GPM solenoid valve for grapple.

Surplus Center - SAE 8 15 GPM DOUBLE SELECTOR VALVE 12 VDC P15544-1

Indtructions
http://www.surpluscenter.com/Instruct/I9-5117.pdf

 

[Olalla Tractor]

Thanks very much JJ, I'll let you know what happens!

 

[DJNebraska]

If you want more of a "plug and play" solution, SelecPLUS comes with everything you need, not just the valve. It comes with the valve, switch to mount on the directional valve handle, wiring harnesses, mounting bracket, hydraulic adapters, mounting hardware, fuse and instructions.

SelectPLUS 12 GPM

Instructions

 

[Olalla Tractor]

Hmmm...yes being a new guy, this seems like the way to go! Thanks fellas!
:thumbsup:

 

[dfkrug]

I am wondering about the best way to add an in cab control for the top grapple cylinider. Is there a good place to plumb in to the existing hydraulics? I've seen electric and mechanical valving, just need some advice.

Don't rule out a simple one-spool valve with Power Beyond like I had
on my B21. It was mounted on the loader cross bar right next
to the joystick and used the PB Out of the loader valve. Since it
was an open center valve, you could operate it with the left hand
while curling the bkt with your right. This would give true grapple
action. Prob costs less than solenoid valves, too.

 

[Olalla Tractor]

Ah, that does look simple...where does the supply come from? it looks like it comes from forward of the cab... Thanks!

 

[dfkrug]

Ah, that does look simple...where does the supply come from? it looks like it comes from forward of the cab... Thanks!

The supply is the PB Out of the FEL valve, right next to the added valve.

The B21s are an old design with the FEL valve forward on the right
FEL post. This makes it easy to plumb another spool valve there.