Kubota B2601 with a BH70 back hoe

[Petey Kubota]

I am looking for ideas on how to take my manual Kubota thumb and convert it to a hydraulic thumb. I need to know how to plumb the hoses and the best way. I currently have a third function for the front of the tractor. Is there a simple way to use the existing hydraulic lines from the ram on the backhoe and tie it in to a valve. Also if anyone has the parts needed such as what hydraulic ram they used and what valve. I can take the manual thumb adjustment off and add a hydraulic ram in its place.

Thanks

 

[fried1765]

I am looking for ideas on how to take my manual Kubota thumb and convert it to a hydraulic thumb. I need to know how to plumb the hoses and the best way. I currently have a third function for the front of the tractor. Is there a simple way to use the existing hydraulic lines from the ram on the backhoe and tie it in to a valve. Also if anyone has the parts needed such as what hydraulic ram they used and what valve. I can take the manual thumb adjustment off and add a hydraulic ram in its place.

Thanks

A hydraulic thumb is a great thing!
"Best way" is likely to buy a different TLB WITH a hydraulic thumb.

 

[top gnome]

I think it is a great idea and would be interested if someone does know how.

 

[Jchonline]

I even think my hyd thumb on the excavator is slow....I cant imagine it on a SCUT backhoe! Good luck hope you find a way!

 

[TheOldHokie]

Sounds like you already have a source for the thumb and want to know how to plumb it in. Speed aside that is trivial and it does not involve the loader third function. How sophisticated do you want to get with the valve and controls?

Dan

 

[top gnome]

I even think my hyd thumb on the excavator is slow....I cant imagine it on a SCUT backhoe! Good luck hope you find a way!

yes but not as slow and getting off the tractor and setting the pin and getting back on the tractor.

 

[TheOldHokie]

yes but not as slow and getting off the tractor and setting the pin and getting back on the tractor.

If you add the same sort of solenoid valve used for the third function it should run at the same speed as your grapple.

Dan

 

[GreensvilleJay]

Is there a way to add a single valve body 'section' to the existing BH 'block of valves' ? This would be a very clean install. When the BH comes off so does the thumb plumbing, simple and easy.

If not.... I'd look to see if you can get a 'dual rear remote' kit for the B2601. Adding 'plumbing/controls' to the front 3rd function while 'doable' would be a nightmare. Routing of hoses,wiring, control box,etc.
A lot use 'top and tilt' for 3ph implements,so 'top' could be used for 'thumb control'.

 

[TheOldHokie]

Str

Is there a way to add a single valve body 'section' to the existing BH 'block of valves' ? This would be a very clean install. When the BH comes off so does the thumb plumbing, simple and easy.

If not.... I'd look to see if you can get a 'dual rear remote' kit for the B2601. Adding 'plumbing/controls' to the front 3rd function while 'doable' would be a nightmare. Routing of hoses,wiring, control box,etc.
A lot use 'top and tilt' for 3ph implements,so 'top' could be used for 'thumb control'.

Strap a $200 solenoid valve of the sort used for a loader third function to the backhoe and plumb it into the circuit just ahead of the backhoe valve. The only additional hoses are a short connector between the tank port on the solenoid valve and the backhoe valve plus the two going to the thumb. Operation of the thumb is by foot or hand activated rocker switch..

That arrangement will put the thumb cylinder in series with all backhoe cylinders where it will run as fast as the pump can push it.

Dan

 

[lynnmor]

yes but not as slow and getting off the tractor and setting the pin and getting back on the tractor.

Move the thumb as close as possible and try it without getting off.