Yet another 3rd function valve thread (Mahindra 3316 and ML111 FEL)

[LizardKing]

Hey, guys.

I need to clear a bunch of slash piles and brush off of a 1200 foot fence line. Sounds like I need a root grapple.

I've been lurking here for several days and perusing the threads about installing 3rd Function Valves. The dealer quoted me $1400 for the valve and installation. I think I can do this myself, but I need some clarification on a few points.

I've attached a drawing of how I think the plumbing goes. Seems fairly straightforward.

Some questions:

1. The Hydraulic Block on the 3316 has a Pressure port, Power Beyond port, and an unused Return port. For the Return port, the FEL manual states "this port is not used if you are only installing a loader to your tractor".

So, I can just ignore the Return port, right? (But I'm also curious when and how it would be used.)

2. Some of the Loader Valve pics that I've seen in other threads have a "return to tank" port that is part of the puzzle. Not so on the ML111 FEL. Just In, Out, A, B, C, and D. Anything I'm missing here per my drawing?

3. Per the FEL manual:
"Never install a grapple attachment to the ML111 loader. Overload of tractor and damage to loader can occur voiding tractor and loader warranty." (I'm well outside the warranty period.)

I pointed this out the sales guy, and he conferred with the service manager. He said the 72" 600+ lb twin cylinder root grapple he had been trying to sell me could "crumple" the loader. The service manager is recommending the 48" 380 lb solid bottom Scrap Grapple (for an insane $1600).

This tells me I should be okay with anything under 400 lbs. Any concerns here?

Any advice or recommendations are greatly appreciated.

 

[K5lwq]

Welcome to TBN!

I am not familiar with your system. However, if I were going to add a valve, I would make sure it had power beyond. Then take the hose that goes to the "In" port on the loader valve and feed the new valve first. Take the power beyond from the new valve to the "In" port on the loader valve. Next, go from the tank port on the new valve to the plugged tank port in your picture of the hydraulic block.

This way I would be certain not to create any issues with the flow of the loader valve.

Hopefully someone more familiar with your set up will give you better insight. Good luck!

 

[ericm979]

What is the capacity of the loader? Your hydraulic diagram looks correct. Typically the loader is first after the pump, then other valves, then the 3pt because it dumps into the tank. I'm not sure the order makes a difference.

I have been happy with my EA Wicked grapple (the long tine type). It's good at picking up brush, trees and logs Not so good at firewood rounds. I can modify how I work to reduce the need for that. I got a 60" wide one for my Branson whose loader has about a 2100 lb capacity at full height. A 48" would be narrow. Ok for trees but would grab less brush. When I exceed the loader's capacity it just trips the relief valve, telling me that I'm trying to do too much. That is very rare with the grapple.

The EA grapple is not the cheapest but it's a quality piece.

 

[K5lwq]

My concern is that there is not a power beyond on the loader valve. My thought is the line out is just return to tank. This is why I suggested putting new valve first. Of course I could be completely wrong. :confused3:

 

[ptsg]

On the second picture, is possible to see a power beyond port marked as BYD. However can't quite see the port unless it is the one under the top left hose that looks like a plug.

 

[LizardKing]

Good point. I'll need to study on that some more.
I now understand that my drawing is incorrect. The ports on the loader valve are labelled IN and OUT, not P and PB.

Thanks.

 

[LizardKing]

Durr...I was looking for something labelled PB. I pretty sure that says BYD. I'll clean the grease off and double-check. This could be good news for me. Thanks.

 

[K5lwq]

I see that now. However, I believe you would have to source a power beyond conversion plug for that port in order to power another valve.

If your new valve is power beyond ready, nothing has to be done to the loader valve. Just plumb it as I describe above.

 

[LizardKing]

Here's the very confusing (for me) schematic from the valve kit I'm considering.

View attachment 573770

 

[LizardKing]

I see that now. However, I believe you would have to source a power beyond conversion plug for that port in order to power another valve.

If your new valve is power beyond ready, nothing has to be done to the loader valve. Just plumb it as I describe above.

That's great. I'll sketch it up and get back to you. Thanks again.