Replacing the FEL Controller
auerbach
Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 2168 West of Toronto Pics |
2009-02-15 160338
Sometimes I think my tractor is just a device to position and move the bucket, I use it so much. The single-lever controller was probably the latest thing when the dealer installed it 30 years ago. It has a lot of moving parts, and the ones I can see are getting worn and sloppy, and I wonder about the ones I can't. And the next component to snap might not be possible to fix. So I wouldn't mind getting a replacement to stand by, for if and when needed, and, never having replaced one, would appreciate advice.
1. I can spend $100 or $300 on a controller. Does it matter?
2. Are there any new features available that I might want?
3. Do they all offer a "float" position, or do I have to look for that?
4. What specs are necessary for a tractor whose pump (when new) was rated at 6.2 USG/min with a relief pressure of 2200 psi? Is it good to get a controller that exceeds these?
5. Are controller fittings designed for either metric or English connections? (My loader was made in Canada, and the hoses are snap-on connected to the controller.)
6. If, as I guess, a single lever controller can work either four functions or only two, how can I know that the one I get works the four?
7. I often want to operate two functions smoothly together (lift/dump, lower/curl). My controller permits one function at a time. Any way to ensure that a new one can do two simultaneously?
8. Anything else I should look for?
Thanks in advance to the familiar names I know will set me straight once again.
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Replacing the FEL Controller
earthwrks
Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 3853 Home Office in Flat Rock, Michigan Pics |
2009-02-15 160340
Get ahold of surpluscenter.com and ask them for advice. They have a myriad of single-stick valves. There are, as you seem to know, all differnt types including ones that are used to control hydraulic motors--both, hard stop and run neutral types. I'd tell them what you have--have the serial or part number and mfg. handy and the specs you know like GPM. You may luck out and have a direct replacment off the shelf.
Rebuilding your valve is also and option. I found it is pricey--$350 for my smaller backhoe valve bank. And then they didn't do it right. ....
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