Kubota B4200 adding hydraulic top link

[Thunder5000]

As I've used the tractor more and more, I discovered that there is a thing called a hydraulic top link that existsin the world. I immediately said, "Yes, I need that." I'm looking for some guidance on how I could do this. This tractor has a directional control valve(Big blue lever) that directs between the 3PH and the FEL. That diverter valve is what is throwing me off on how I can pipe in a third valve/cylinder. The FEL has a power beyond valve. Basically, I'm looking to add dedicated top link hydraulics while simultaneously using the 3PH. I would possibly like an extra set of hydraulic controls to the back of the tractor for possible future implements, but I will focus on one problem at the moment. The big kicker is how do I achieve top link functionality without having to constantly switch that directional control valve? Initially, I was thinking that I could add a valve to the FEL power beyond. Maybe that's my only choice but it forces me to keep going back and forth with the blue diverter valve. Hope that makes sense.

Is it simply a case of adding a valve on the pressure side(OUT) of the pump? Or am I forced to using the FEL power beyond port? Valve type? This is where I really start to get lost in the information. I included a sketch of what I was thinking as a possibility. Any constructive input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Thunder5000]

Bump*

Am I correct to say I would look for a
4 port/3way/open center/handle operated/spring center valve? Valve size? I believe this tractor uses 8 gpm valve on the FEL. Would 11 gpm work? If so, what are the down sides to a higher gpm valve?

 

[dfkrug]

I would use a 7-8 GPM valve. A larger valve will not be as easy to feather to control partial actuation with such a low pump flow. Your old Kub puts out something like 4-5GPM at around 1500psi, I believe. A bigger valve will take more fender space and have larger fittings to reduce as well.

A 1-spool open-center spring-center valve rated for at least 2000psi is what you want. Power beyond is an option you need if installing in series before the FEL valve or before the three-point valve. If your added AUX valve is the last in the series, then no PB is necessary.