FEL linkage end - why?

[guyd]

Some FELs have a linkage from the ram end to the bucket - some dont. Why? Some I have seen are a 1:1 ratio as far as I can see...

All JCBs have them - so there has to be somthing in it..

 

[bobodu]

I can think of a couple of reasons. To change the direction of the cylinder from horizontal to vertical or to use a longer or shorter cylinder.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

I believe the linkage usually changes the geometry so that you get better breakout force and or a better bucket dump angle. On some industrial tractors there is linkage that gets the cylinders to work in reverse of how our ag tractors work and that gets way more breakout force to the bucket.

 

[john_bud]

Most are there to gain more dump and tip up angle. Especially the tip up angle. Check the specs. Non 4 link are in the 20-25 degree tip up where the 4 link configurations are 45 degrees. That's a HUGE improvement.

Break out force is about the same.

 

[mwb]

It allows a greater dump angle (as mentioned) but it also increases curl force when the bucket is at full dump or full curl. On a 'regular' fel when the bucket is at the end of it rotation the hydraulic cylinder is almost lying on the fel arm; the moment on the bucket is reduced to maybe a couple of inches (depending on model) so the curl force is greatly reduced. At mid stroke the moment arm is much greater (about 10.5" on mine).

 

[jimmysisson]

Anyone ever tried to retrofit some links to a non-link type? I could sure use more tip-up, though down is plenty. Ford 7109 loader. Probably have to move the mounts, i.e. not worth the trouble. I think my bucket tips up maybe 15 degrees, pitiful, really.
Jim

 

[dex3361]

I am thinking about it. I am looking at how the others are made. I think I will probably have to move the upper cylinder bushings back and I would purchase the linkage parts for a similar loader. Still in the thinking stage. Anybody have any pearls of wisdom on this matter.

 

[guyd]

I thought it was a leverage thing...

Thanks