Tapping into hydraulic line for thumb?

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solo machine

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Jan 14, 2023
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I have a Hydra Mac 5C, I'd like to add a thumb and possibly build a small hoe for it.
I'm thinking I can add a electric solenoid, redirecting the pressure to the thumb.
Adding a hoe attachment might be a bigger problem trying get things to work together.
I have a joystick and electric solenoid already.
I'd like to hear if anyone has tapped into their pressure and return line to add a thumb before I risk a "oh crap moment"
Thanks.
 

Mustang Guy

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Apr 12, 2016
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What I did on my excavator was to install an electric diverter valve in the blade circuit. Now I can operate the thumb with the blade control with just a flip of the switch. BUT, it would be much better if your valve stack had a power beyond port. You should look into it.
 
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solo machine

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Thank you, I'll look into a electric diverter valve. I have a Mini Mac 5C, there's no valve stack, a odd but simple T handles for directing hydraulic flow.
I've had this for almost a year and have used it a lot. I keep see other ways to use it, if only I had different attachments. Not so many for this little machine.
Thank you again for a direction to go.
 

Mustang Guy

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solo machine

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I went to the shed and pulled a few things I think will work.
Two joy sticks and 1 electric solenoid.
 

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solo machine

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What I've learned, P- from pump, A & B, A- advance, B- retract, T- return
There are 3 ports for the return. I believe, I block off two.
One port has a larger hole, I guess for better return flow to the tank?
I think I'll use the control valve at the top of the picture, it's brand new. The solenoid is new also.
 
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solo machine

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I've been trying to figure the flow on the solenoid, applying power I hear it move, but flow comes out the same port.
swap leads and same thing, same port. ?
Today I'm going to mock up everything and see what happens.
If I can't figure it out, I'll go down the road to a Parker store and look for answers.
The solenoid is used...so maybe the coil is the issue.
 

ddbackhoe

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Feb 22, 2016
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I've been trying to figure the flow on the solenoid, applying power I hear it move, but flow comes out the same port.
swap leads and same thing, same port. ?
Today I'm going to mock up everything and see what happens.
If I can't figure it out, I'll go down the road to a Parker store and look for answers.
The solenoid is used...so maybe the coil is the issue.
swap electrical leads? wouldnt be any difference for 12 vdc. open/closed is all you get
 
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solo machine

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Jan 14, 2023
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swap electrical leads? wouldnt be any difference for 12 vdc. open/closed is all you get
Yep, I don't know what I was thinking...Duh. I have it figured out now.
I need to make some brackets for the spool, solenoid and quick disconnects.
Then I can run my lines and start on the grapple.
 
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solo machine

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Just an update. I haven't got the grapple made or anything mounted yet. I'm still working on getting my new building finished for my machine shop.
Pictures will come when I have something to show.
 
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