Remote Hydraulic DR Log Splitter on a Kabota L4400 HST

CptTrog · Sep 25, 2013

Hello again, folks. Been a while since I posted. Got really good advice on cracked hubs and all is well with those repairs! Thanks for that!!
Just purchased the DR 13ton 3PT Log Splitter. I'm looking to mount it stationary on a raised steel frame and pull the tractor up nearby within 8 to 10 feet away to run it. I've searched the forums for hours here about the subject of tapping the hydraulics for remote use and seem to be spinning my wheels.
I've found a number of threads about using either the rear 4 port block as well as the block next to the filter that leads up to my FEL and timber grapple. Even found something about using the Backhoe hoses. I'm truly at a loss on how best to proceed for a truly "remote" application.
What I/we (brother & I will be doing the work and we are NOT spring chickens!) dream of doing is to pull the tractor up to the splitter with the backhoe still attached and a set of timber tongs chained to the bucket. Hook the splitter to the tractor's hydraulics. Reach over to the trailer with the tongs to grab the raw materials and swing them up onto the splitter. AND SPLIT AWAY!
We know we can manage the split chunks by hand but truly want to take advantage of the backhoe to load the splitter. (We've even found an old conveyor belt to put below the splitter and carry the finished splits to another trailer for transport to the woodsheds!
:drink:
Now need to figure a way to drive the belt hydraulically!)
Our only 'stump' (sorry) is using the hydraulics system to run the splitter "remotely". Where do we tap into that system via quick disconnects and still retain use of the backhoe?

Looking forward to any guidance from the TBN family of experts! BTW, I apologize if this topic is already discussed elsewhere. Eyes have begun to cross from searching!!:confused2:

J_J · Sep 25, 2013

I answered your question in another post, but here it is..

The Hydraulics:
Type: open center
Capacity: 10.6 gal [40.1 L] (gear)
11.9 gal [45.0 L] (hydro)
Valves: 0 to 3
Pump flow: 8.4 gpm [31.8 lpm]
Total flow: 13.5 gpm [51.1 lpm]
Steering flow: 5.1 gpm [19.3 lpm]

The tractor is open center as you can see, The pump flow is 8.4 GPM's

Make your self a remote QD hose for a log splitter log/ BH connection. Run a hose from the loader valve and put a QD on the end, then plug in the log splitter and run a hose from the log splitter valve back to a return line of dump to tank.

When you are not using the log splitter, plug the QD into the 3pt.

Leejohn · Sep 25, 2013

You can hook in at the rockshaft right hand side. See if this helps.

CptTrog · Sep 30, 2013

Have been able to connect the splitter supply line into the BH pressure port, the BH into the splitter return and both splitter and BH work flawlessly! Can't operate both at the same time, but there is really no need to. Able to load large chunks onto the splitter with tongs hung from the BH bucket.
Happy, Happy, Happy!

CptTrog · Sep 30, 2013

Leejohn said:
You can hook in at the rockshaft right hand side. See if this helps.

Adding that valve may be something I consider in the future. Thanks! Looks simple enough to install.
I priced the aux control kit from the local Kabota dealer. When I asked, he looked at the computer screen, raised his eyebrows and said, "let's step outside and talk!"
Suggested I can get something close to the same thing from Northern Tool for less than half of what Kabota wants for theirs. Anyone have any experience with a Northern Tool aux control?

J_J · Sep 30, 2013

You can get a simple one spool remote valve from many places.

You can bungee the lever, or order a valve with three way detent to lock the lever in place.

This valve will work. Has PB port.

1 SPOOL 8 GPM PRINCE MB11B5C1 DA VALVE

LVERINE-MB-VALVE/edp_no=40374/shop.axd/ProductDetails