Do I really need loader float if I have a box blade/rear blade?

[BadDecisions]

Old Wagner WM-3 loader on an 8N. Before anyone says it, yes, I'm aware that loader on Ford *N is bad. I've already had this tractor and loader for years, and I rarely use the loader. 99.9% of the time, I used it as a crude crane, and I don't even do that any more since I put an actual crane on my utility truck. Rare enough that it doesn't make sense for me to go buy another tractor for the once every few years I need the loader, and it's simple to install/remove the loader with the crane, so it's only on the tractor when I need it.

A project has come up that I need the loader for...last time I used it, all 3 cylinders were leaking, and it wasn't holding height...so I'm rebuilding the whole dang thing. I see replacement control valves are available with and without float, which I understand make so the loader has neither up or down pressure on it for things like dragging the bucket to grade with it.

I already have a large back blade and box blade that I use for those things, and I THINK the Wagners floated naturally even without a specific float position. The few times I tried back dragging the bucket, it seemed like it would just bounce over the ground, but it's been years since I tried that. I quickly decided the rear blades worked far better than the bucket for grading.

All that said, is there some other reason I should consider getting a float capable control valve?

 

[Harry in Ky]

No.

 

[dougtrr2]

Unless there is a huge price difference I would get the valve with float capability. Better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

Doug in SW IA

 

[BadDecisions]

Unless there is a huge price difference I would get the valve with float capability. Better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

Doug in SW IA

About a $300 price difference...that's beyond the "well...maybe I'll find a use for it...someday..." break point for me,lol.

 

[TMGT]

Does your loader have single acting cylinders for the boom?
If I recall correctly, most of those loaders had single acting cylinders in which case you wouldn't need float, but would recommend a single acting valve for the loader lift.



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