BX23S Sub-Compact FEL 4-in-1 Connector (Maybe others)

[Trimley]

I've always shut-off the tractor when connecting hydraulic lines, then moved the stick to relieve pressure.

The other day I tried connecting the FEL 4-in-1 without shutting off the tractor. To my surprise it was easily done. I left the tractor running and easily disconnected the 4-in-1. To me, the R&R was a nice surprise.

To test this further I decided to try the four individual (Flatface Couplers) lines of my Snow Plow. With little to no resistance (normal procedure would be to pull the lock ring back with a second hand) the hose fitting popped right on and locked in place. Removal was just as easy.

 

[leveraddict]

Hmm never tried it. I always shut it down wiggle the joy stick and connect or shut down and disconnect. May give it a try! If anything maybe get a little squirt from the fitting while unhooking while running?

 

[Trimley]

Hmm never tried it. May give it a try! If anything maybe get a little squirt from the fitting while unhooking while running?

Nope, there was no weeping at all.

 

[GreensvilleJay]

I've only disconnected once( to have loader frame defect repaired) and made sure both sides were clean. Kind of a tight spot but a nice system. many have posted about leaks,going back to 4 individual connectors but I suspect loss of oring or placement might have been the issue ?

Only 'weeping' I've had was from runoff from the generous rust check spray I used to keep metal from ,well, rusting.

 

[leveraddict]

On second thought I think I will keep shutting the tractor down when connecting or removal. If you do it while running there is pressure in the line and if you damage the coupler...Well they are expensive! I had one go bad topside on the 4 way coupler while doing dirt work. I took it apart, cleaned it up, no o ring just two pieces one inside the other, tried it again and no workie I couldn't find why it failed.

 

[GreX]

I did this once, and it was fine taking off, but a major pain to get back on, given the pressure remained in the loader lines. Have since turned off and moved joystick to all positions before disconnecting, MUCH easier on the reinstall.

 

[Trimley]

My Snow Plow has four individual fittings, I can install them with little to no effort (engine running) using one hand.

 

[leveraddict]

My Snow Plow has four individual fittings, I can install them with little to no effort (engine running) using one hand.

Was the fluid cold or did you try it with the tractor nice and warm?

 

[Trimley]

Was the fluid cold or did you try it with the tractor nice and warm?

The tractor was at operating temps, the plow was cold.

 

[Grandad4]

Flat face couplers have been used on big ag equipment for a long time, being able to connect/remove without shutting off the engine is probably a major reason.