Which quick connects on loader aux hydraulics?

[hayden]

I'm trying to sort out what style quick connects to put on the loader aux hydraulics on my new tractor. These are the hydraulics to control a 4n1 bucket, grapple, etc. I would just match them to my implement, but so far I don't have one, so I'm curious how others have done this so I can get the dealer to include them in anticipation of a later retrofit.

The three arrangements I've heard of so far are:

1) Rear hydraulic style. This uses the standard Ag couplers with the female couples on the loader, and the male tips on the implement hoses.

2) Skid steer style. This uses the flat-faced skid steer implement couplers and on the loader side one line has a coupler and the other has a tip so the hoses are polarized to ensure you hook them up correctly.

3) A mix of (1) and (2) where the lines are polarized, but Ag couplers are used instead of skid steer coupler. This is how the thumb couples up to the backhoe I'm getting.

I'm curious how those of you with loader aux hydraulics have set up the quick connects.

Thanks,

Peter

 

[IslandTractor]

Most tractors have Pioneer Ag style hydraulic couplers which I believe are less expensive than the skid steer flat type. I just stuck with the size (1/2 inch) that were compatable with the rear remote fittings on my first tractor. You can buy bushings to change from 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch hose up to 1/2 inch fittings and the fittings are just a bit easier to grab a hold of because of their size. Not a big deal though and many good implements such as the WR Long 4n1 bucket seem to come with 1/4 inch fittings which are just as good. Bottom line is that you just need to make sure you have the appropriate matching sets to get to your source of hydraulic power.

Some people like to have matched male/female sets so they don't have to worry about which hose connects to which line but I tend to just use zip tie markers on the pairs I want to match and have all my implements with male fittings and the tractor with female fittings. Either system works.