The Fordson Tractor Pages Forum

Hi there, I am looking for some advice: I have a Major circa 54 fitted with a front loader operated by the same lever as the 3 point link, this can be isolated so that a tipper can be used at the rear via a quick fit connector.

I have a McConnel finger bar hedge cutter intended for a small tractor which with some modification could fit the 3 point link, the problem is it runs on the hydraulic supply from the tractor .. it isn't run off the PTO, and I only have the one pressure feed operated by the same lever that the 3 point linkage.

I have been told that if i tap into tipper connection I can just send the return back into the axle by removing the oil filler plug, but this means I would have to hold the lever up constantly whilst trying to drive, and couldn't operate 3 pint linkage separately. The question is then: is it possible to tap into the Hydraulic supply so there is a constant feed to the cutter when the pump is engaged, and still operate the 3 point link independently through the lever?

If its a no then Plan B is going to be buy a PTO pump and tank...

Thanks Julian

The Major is not the best tractor to try and run multiple hydraulic services. It would run the motor on your hedge cutter but you would have to re-direct the flow if you wanted to use the lift arms. McConnel did fit a diverter valve to the front of the valve chest but this would not really help running a hydraulic motor as it was only meant to operate a single ram.

Your Plan B is the way to go.

Agree with Brian's last suggestion. We fitted an aux. pump to the PTO drive to operate a FEL. The lift rams will handle a good half a ton, plus the crowd and tilt ram. The only problem is the establishment of very pronounced biceps without power steering. A helpful trick is to run the front tyres with 35 psi in them.

Pavel.

Ok thanks folks, much appreciated