Hi All, this is a part two of a multi-part series discussing how I tackle problems, using the example of adding additional hydraulics to a John Deere tractor. From Last time I was left with:
- Where to tie into the hydraulics?
- What kind of solenoid do I need for simple on/off control?
- What kind of solenoid do I need for the feathering control?
- What kind of connectors do I need?
- What can I fabricate myself?
- What will I need to farm out?
- How can I make this last with future plans?
- What are my goals & associated budget?
- What is the time frame?
- Will this interfere with other plans?
I’ve spent the last two weeks putting together a stab at those answers:
Where to tie into the hydraulics?
Well the simple answer is look for the source and return line. The slightly more complex answer is that there are several spots to tie into the hydraulics, although I believe the least risky is to tie in right near where they are now and simply T both the supply and return fittings. The downside of this is that these new hydraulics will have priority on hydraulic power.
What kind of solenoid do I need for simple on/off control?
Simple answer is a 4 way, 3 position solenoid. The 4 way means there are 4 ports to attach lines to. The 3 position refers to the fact that there are 3 different ways to route flow between those lines. For example, if the ports are ABCD. For position one, A would link to C, B would link to D. For position two, A would link to D, B would link to C. Finally for position 3, A, B, C, D would be closed off from each other
What kind of solenoid do I need for the feathering control?
Proportional Solenoid Valve. And wow are they expensive new. Thank goodness for used and surplus.
What kind of connectors do I need?
Depends on the location. But stainless steel lines for the body parts, ISO5675 “AG” for connections, as well as a weird amount of fittings to secure the lines to the frame.
What can I fabricate myself?
As of right now, the electronics seem doable, some level of manufacturing can be done by me to make the control buttons and joysticks.
What will I need to farm out?
Hydraulic Line bending. I seriously do not think I can do the many bends this will take, and lines are expensive.
Painting-Powdercoating is hard to do right & metal is expensive.
Welting & metal shaping- I don’t have access to a CNC mill any more, so I will need to farm that out, or find someone’s I can borrow for a bit!
How can I make this last with future plans?
Well I know I am going to be putting on a quick attach block, so I should do that now. In addition, making it easier to put the backhoe on and off
What are my goals & associated budget?
My primary goals are to make it easier to attach the Front end and Backhoe, as well as to expand the functionality. This means be able to run an impeller based bagging system, as well as a grapple. I am going to estimate this project will take around $1500 excluding mistakes.
What is the time frame?
This coming Spring
Will this interfere with other plans?
As of right now, no. Ideally, the last step is to plumb in the mechanism. which will entail most if not all of the supplemental hydraulic system being complete.
Now that I have the first round of questions answered, next week I will discuss how I start breaking up my tasks, deciding design points, as well as figuring out what I am overlooking.