Options for Hydraulic Grapple Operation (Yes Again)

[bdhsfz6]

I realize this has been discussed here before at great length but I'm looking for advice specific to the MX series tractors with LA1065 FEL's. I've seen many options discussed here for operating grapple hydraulics on other Kubotas and I'd like the opinions of what other MX owners have used.

To me, it's a choice between a 3rd function valve and using a rear remote but I'm open to other suggestions.
My dealer wants around $1500 to install the OEM Kubota 3rd function valve. I know there are cheaper aftermarket valves out there but I'm concerned about quality and ease of installation issues.

I can buy hoses and fittings to connect to a rear remote for <$250. I understand there is a loss of convenience in having to take your hand off the FEL joystick to operate the remote valve. Is this loss of convenience really worth spending +/- $1000 more to correct?

Any advice specific to the MX and LA1065 would be greatly appreciated.

 

[ovrszd]

You might also go back to your dealer and ask what the cost of the "kit" is?? Kubota sells what they call "Whole Goods" kits for a variety of things, this being one of them. The kits come with very detailed instructions including pictures. I installed 3rd function on my Kubota using a kit. I can't remember the cost but it was way less than $1500.

I use my 3rd function all the time. Positive of the kit is quality and tidiness. Having the 3rd function switch on the joystick increases productivity dramatically. Also having true 3rd function giving you the ability to lift, curl, clamp at the same time when using a Grapple is very nice.

Much more cheaper routes to go. As the cost gets cheaper the productivity drops accordingly.

 

[Dadnatron]

Your decision needs to be based, IMO, upon how much you are likely to use the grapple aspect.

If rarely or only for large use, hoses from the rear would likely be fine. IE moving a large hay bale.

But, if you are using it often, or to do a lot of repetitious work, ie clearing fence rows/wood piles, etc. I suspect that the only real useful option is a button on the stick which allows for combination movements. I have been clearing fence rows and pulling fence for several months, and I would go out TODAY AGAIN, and have the button put on my stick. It is a thumb rocker switch on an ergonomic JD handle, and I tell you, without it, I could have killed someone or still been on post #2. It is THAT useful.

IMO, if you plan on keeping the tractor, and can forsee using the grapple even for a few hours yearly, if you have access to the cash, you will be well rewarded with a 3rd function valve with a thumb switch.

I wouldn't even consider a grapple without one, at this point.

 

[ovrszd]

I wouldn't even consider a grapple without one, at this point.

Me neither.

 

[Gordon Gould]

I added a manual control valve mounted above my FEL valve. Cost me $300. Not as convenient as a button on the FEL knob but close. Before that I used a rear remote but then wanted that for a Top-n-Tilt.





gg

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

I have the OEM 3rd fxn (made by LandPride) on mine. It is great. Dealer installed mine for, I think, $1250 at the time of tractor purchase.

If I knew then what I know now, I would buy the OEM kit and install it myself. If you do that, I can take pictures to help you do it.

IMO Gordon has done the next best thing.

 

[ovrszd]

While I really like Gordon's solution, and have done that myself on my previous L4400, with a slight twist, it still falls short of a 3rd function switch on the joystick.



I purchased a valve that had a joystick function and an auxiliary valve in the same block. Then I moved my previous FEL joystick to the fender and turned it into a dual rear remote valve. Not nearly as hard as it is to describe....

 

[Gordon Gould]

I like the way you did that Richard. Makes the plumbing much simpler (actually eliminates most of it) with the two block valve and then recycle the old FEL valve for a pair of rear remotes - clever !!

gg

 

[RNeumann]

The problem is the rear remote is typically on the same side as the loader control. So if you want to squeeze and curl (which is quite common) you are reaching across your body with your left hand. It's surprising you aren't interested in anything between full factory install and a rear remote. Their are other quality 3rd function options for under $1000.

One Touch Kit for Tractor Loaders - Installation - YouTube

 

[jacalope22]

I just added the land pride 3rd function 380-166a to my mx5200. It was easy to install and everything fit properly. I bought mine online from German bliss for $695. Installs in 30min.
Land Pride Part# 38-166A