First post, question about pump.

[dadjon]

Hi everyone,
first post on this site. Found this site by accident around Christmas and you guys have inspired me to build my own fel for my craftsman 18 hp. I have very little experience with hydraulics but do understand how it works.
My question involves a Vickers vane type model vtm42 power steering pump that i picked up at a local flea market for 10 bucks.
Does this pump provide enough pressure and gpm to operate a small fel for a garden tractor. online specs say it supplies 7.5 gpm and 1500 psi. @ something around 4200rpm.
Sorry this post is so long. I have a few other questions too, but that will be another post. Will also post pictures of fel progress in projects forum.

Thanks,
John

 

[Bird]

I don't really have an answer for your question, but welcome to Tractorbynet. Just for a wild guess, it sounds as if that pump will provide plenty of flow/volume and less pressure than most front end loaders. However, for a Craftsman garden tractor, you aren't going to be lifting very heavy loads, so it should be adequate pressure. If you do build your own front end loader, I hope you give us lots of pictures of the project.

 

[Brad_Blazer]

I agree, that pump sounds like a good fit. Maxed out it will consume about 8 horsepower.
Permco Hydraulic Calculator

 

[dadjon]

Thanks guys,
I think it will work also. I'll give it a shot, the worst that can happen is i'll have to buy another pump.