FEL Joystick feathering

szeiger · Feb 16, 2019

Anyone found a way to adjust the valve so it feathers instead of just open or closes abruptly?
RK24

s219 · Feb 16, 2019

Did you try other RK24 models to know if this is a characteristic of the loader valve they use or maybe a problem with your machine? Normally there isn't any adjustment in the open/close behavior of the valves since the action happens as machined spools move through machined galleys in the valve body, and the shape of the spools/galleys is what gives the valve feel and precision.

Sometimes you can add a restrictor or needle valve downstream to modulate the effect but it will also reduce the overall flow rate.

99% of it has to do with how good the valve is. There are big differences in this across tractor brands and models, so I feel like it's super important to try this out when shopping tractors. I have been on tractors that offered very precise feathered control through the loader valves, and others that feel like on/off switches.

oosik · Feb 16, 2019

My joystick offers very precise controlled feathering of all actions. The WR Long third function - electric over hydraulic - does not. It's like a light switch - either on or off.

OhioCowboy · Feb 16, 2019

My joystick for the RK24 FEL is easy to make slow and precise movements up/down/curl. Nothing like you describe.

szeiger · Feb 18, 2019

s219 said:
Did you try other RK24 models to know if this is a characteristic of the loader valve they use or maybe a problem with your machine? Normally there isn't any adjustment in the open/close behavior of the valves since the action happens as machined spools move through machined galleys in the valve body, and the shape of the spools/galleys is what gives the valve feel and precision.

Sometimes you can add a restrictor or needle valve downstream to modulate the effect but it will also reduce the overall flow rate.

99% of it has to do with how good the valve is. There are big differences in this across tractor brands and models, so I feel like it's super important to try this out when shopping tractors. I have been on tractors that offered very precise feathered control through the loader valves, and others that feel like on/off switches.

Thanks for the information. On the rk24 it is exactly as you mentioned above on other tractors,it is on or off.
The RK24 was at the price point I wanted to be at, but it is also teaching me what to look for in my next tractor.