John Deere 310E Third function addition

[weeksj94]

So, I am looking to add 2 independent thumb style grapples to my loader bucket. My problem is I do not know much about hydraulics. I know I have a open system that pushes 2750psi. How can I add a third function valve to run the grapples? Do I need to T into an existing line or can I just plumb off of the control valve?

 

[Tx Jim]

Welcome to TBN
When adding control valves to an open-center hyd system one ""can't successfully tee into"" system because then original hyd valves will not operate correctly. Added valves must be attached in series with original valves so oil from pump flows through all valves then back to sump.

 

[weeksj94]

Please excuse my lack of knowledge. I noticed there are 3 areas that seems to be 田apped off on the backside of the main control valve, are these areas that lines can be added too or should I just add the new valve to the main pressure line that feeds the lift and curl functions?

 

[K5lwq]

Do you have a valve in mind for this project? The way it should be plumbed depends on the type of valve you want to add. There are many threads on this site that might help get you heading in the right direction.

I would not recommend adding a valve before the loader unless the new valve has an adjustable pressure relief valve to protect that circuit. If your loader valve has 7 hoses connected, one of them will be the Power Beyond and can be used to add additional valves. But again, we would need to know what type of valve you are adding to give more specific advice.

Welcome to TBN!

 

[weeksj94]

So here’s what I am working with. It has six hoses. I have been told the best way to go is with a third function valve with a lever mounted to my rop by my joystick. I am open to using anything that works though.

 

[K5lwq]

Probably the simplest would be a electric diverter valve off of your curl spool with a switch mounted on your joystick. Then with switch flipped your curl moment controls the grapple cylinders. Flip it back and it curls the bucket again.

If you want a full function valve, you have to figure out how to get power beyond from the loader valve. Do you have a hydraulic diagram of your system?

 

[weeksj94]

Unfortunately I do not have a diagram and the Internet seems to be a ghost town on this machines hydraulics. I would be just fine with switching back and forth from curl function to grapples. Any recommendations on which valve to get?

 

[K5lwq]

There are several places that sell diverter kits that come with wire, switch, hoses and the valve. You can buy everything separate and save some money but a kit should take the guesswork out of the process. I believe Everything Attachments has kits for most applications. Am I sure others have good kits as well.

There are a lot of threads on this forum about diverters. You can search here and get some good ideas.

 

[TractorGuy]

This is the valve I used on my 4310.
Shopping

You may need something with a higher flow rate.

Summit has a Universal kit with a 21 GPM flow rate.
Hydraulic Third / 3rd Function Valve Kit w/ Joystick Handle for Tractor/Loader, 13 GPM - FREE SHIPPING

 

[weeksj94]

Awesome guys! Do I need one that can match the gpm flow rate of the machine?