Grapple

[hurleyjd]

I have a Branson tractor and plans to install grapple. The third function for the grapple will cost around $900. I can buy a three function hydraulic valve for about $600 which way would you go I am thinking of the three function would work okay for me.

 

[Janicholson]

As long as you have a method of tapping into full pressure and flow for the new valve, and it is open, or closed system (whichever). it will work. Jim

 

[Pete in Holland MI]

If your loader currently has the lift and curl functions on one handle, having to reach for the 3rd function to operate the thumb will quickly become awkward. My Kubota has added the 3rd function valve. Added 2 buttons to the control stick, and very handy to operate the hydraulics, while the other hand drives.

 

[BarnyardEngineering]

Depends on what model the tractor is and the type of hydraulic system it has. If you put the wrong kind of valve on in the wrong way, the repair bills will be far more than the $900 it's going to cost to add the third function.

I'm guessing your tractor has a dedicated joystick valve to operate the loader. Does it have any rear remotes? Usually tractors come with one or two. If it has rear remotes, then you can add a "third function" for the cost of some hoses to run from the back to the front. It won't be a convenient pushbutton on the handle of the joystick, but it also won't cost you $900. I operated a bale grapple this way for three years. You get good at it quick, plus it's not good to leave your hand in one position for too long.

 

[hurleyjd]

my tractor is a 2515 Branson with hydrostat drive. Pretty sure it is open center because it has power beyond.

 

[moresmoke]

Power beyond makes it easy to plumb in another valve.

You could also use a solenoid operated selector valve with a switch mounted on your current loader control. You plumb into the bucket curl lines and pushing the switch swaps between curl and grapple.

 

[cjunrau]

I have a Branson tractor and plans to install grapple. The third function for the grapple will cost around $900. I can buy a three function hydraulic valve for about $600 which way would you go I am thinking of the three function would work okay for me.

If you want it handy you can install a electric over hyd valve that you mount a switch to to operate the Grapple. I use my joystick and grapple plugged into the rear remotes. not as nice as switch on the joystick put works.

 

[rick n ohio]

I have a Branson tractor and plans to install grapple. The third function for the grapple will cost around $900. I can buy a three function hydraulic valve for about $600 which way would you go I am thinking of the three function would work okay for me.

I had hoses laying around when I bought my grapple i just use rear remotes works for me.