Log Splitter valve used as remote

hahnderosa · May 5, 2007

First of all, thanks to all who have posted information about hydraulics. I searched and used the info to determine how to operate a three pt. hitch mounted log splitter that was purchased fro Northern Tools. $400.

I did not want to have to remember to connect supply and return lines (from my FEL "power beyond" and back to the tractor) when the splitter is not in use, or have connections come apart accidently. That would damage the tractors hyd pmp. Of coarse, I first checked that the valve was an "open center" design. So I removed the valve from the splitter and mounted it on the tractor. Now I have a remote that can be used for other implemnts, although I don't know what else I would use. I'll try to post some pics.

Thanks, Scott

kennyd · May 5, 2007

Excellent, But someone stole your ROPS

Welcome to TBN

gdib · Nov 23, 2007

Scott,
Wow this is a really good idea
Could you post how you tied the valve into your power beyond (after the FEL).
I have the Kubota L3400 with the FEL tied into the the front hydraulic block.
The valve that comes with Northern Equip splitter is the Prince 3000, it doesn't appear to have power beyond connections to the rear hydraulics.
Thanks,
greg

Northland · Nov 24, 2007

Excellent idea Scott- thanks for sharing that and please do post more details as I figure I will buy a splitter for my B7800 next year

Adam23 · Nov 24, 2007

That IS a very good idea! Would love to see pics on how you hooked this up to the loader block. Thanks!

mopar3500 · Nov 24, 2007

Awesome idea, I just bought a 30 ton unit from Harbor frieght tools, maybe I can do the same to my b21.

Farmerford · Nov 25, 2007

Scott:

Neat job.

Your valve tank port appears to connect to the inlet port of the three point hitch, which means that the hydraulic fluid flowing through the valve powers the TPH as well. If so, when the TPH lifts an implement, the fluid pressure needed to move the implement will also be present in the tank/outlet section of the log splitter valve. Many valves have much lower pressure ratings on the tank section than on the inlet section, and are designed to be used as the last valve in a series where there are no downstream devices (cylinder, motor, etc.) to put sigificant back pressue on the tank section of the valve.

If these pressure limits are exceeded the seals at each end of the spool which keep fluid from leaking out between the valve block and the spool can be damaged, causing the valve to leak. The valve manufacturer should be able to tell you the pressure rating for the tank section of the valve.

I realize that you are lifting the log splitter with the valve in place, but the log splitter is probably light enough that the pressure required to lift it does not exceed the valve limits. However, a heavier implement, such as a rotary mower or lift platform, could require much higher pressure.

Tango Hotel · Jan 2, 2008

New Kid Here,
Do I have enough muscle to operte a log Splitter with my BX24?
Dealer wasn't real supportive but I think that is because he didn't supply any

Soundguy · Jan 2, 2008

I'm with farmerford.. many valves do not like pressure on the outplet port.. that's what powerbeyond is for..

soundguy

Aquaman · Jan 3, 2008

Soundguy said:
I'm with farmerford.. many valves do not like pressure on the outplet port.. that's what powerbeyond is for..

What is the correct way the valve should be connected?? I'm wanting to connect a valve to my BX24

BXRICK · Jan 4, 2008

Tango Hotel said:
New Kid Here,
Do I have enough muscle to operte a log Splitter with my BX24?
Dealer wasn't real supportive but I think that is because he didn't supply any

Yes, you have enough muscle. What you may not have is enough flow (speed).
I have one of Northern's log splitters on a BX1500. Northern recommends 11 GPM. The BX1500 suppplies at most 4 (3.something) GPM via the loader ports. I beleive the BX24 is the same, and if it's not, it'll be a bit better.

That said, I'm quite happy. I move right along, and do sometimes have to wait for the splitter, but it's not too bad. I'm also not 22 years old anymore.
If I were splitting commercially, or if I had a second person helping me, it'd be too slow.
I only split a few cords per season.

While I plan to improve the system sometime, I plumbed the splitter directly to the loader ports. It does mean long hoses, but it was easy. I leave the bucket up a few inches while splitting, so I can reposition the tractor without shutting it down and switching hoses.