9 hours ago
The John Deere 850K is a powerful and versatile crawler dozer known for its durability, precision, and ability to handle a wide range of tough jobs. One common modification that many operators and owners of the 850K consider is adding rear SCVs (Selective Control Valves). These valves provide additional hydraulic outlets at the rear of the dozer, allowing operators to connect a wider variety of attachments such as rippers, winches, or tilt blades for enhanced functionality.
This article will explore why and how to add rear SCVs to your John Deere 850K, and how this modification can expand the capabilities of your dozer.
Why Add Rear SCVs to Your 850K?
Adding rear SCVs to your dozer might seem like a simple modification, but it opens up a whole new range of possibilities. Here's why many operators choose to add rear SCVs:
Before you begin, it’s important to ensure that you have the proper tools, equipment, and knowledge to perform the modification. If you're not comfortable performing the installation yourself, it’s always recommended to consult a certified John Deere technician.
Here’s a general step-by-step guide to adding rear SCVs to your 850K:
Step 1: Verify Compatibility
Before proceeding with any modifications, confirm that your John Deere 850K is compatible with the addition of rear SCVs. Many modern dozers have factory-compatible options, but it's essential to verify with John Deere’s official parts catalog or consult with a dealer. Some models may require additional components like special hydraulic kits.
Step 2: Select the Correct SCV Kit
John Deere offers various SCV kits designed for different types of equipment. These kits typically include the necessary valves, hoses, and fittings required for the installation. Choose the appropriate kit that fits the hydraulic requirements of your dozer and the attachments you intend to use. Make sure the kit is designed for rear hydraulic function to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Step 3: Drain Hydraulic System
To avoid any accidents or contamination, begin by draining the hydraulic system. Ensure that the system is powered off and pressure is relieved before starting any installation process. Follow the procedure outlined in the operator’s manual to safely drain and depressurize the hydraulic fluid.
Step 4: Install the SCV Valve
Locate the proper mounting location for the SCV valve on the rear of the dozer. The valve should be easily accessible to the operator, and its installation location must allow for effective connection to the rear hydraulic components. Typically, this installation is done on the dozer's rear frame, near the hydraulic reservoir.
Once you’ve identified the location, mount the SCV valve securely using the provided brackets and bolts. Ensure that all fittings are tightened to prevent leaks.
Step 5: Connect Hydraulic Lines
With the valve securely mounted, connect the hydraulic lines from the valve to the hydraulic circuit. These lines should be routed carefully, ensuring they do not interfere with any moving parts. Use hydraulic quick-connect couplings where necessary for easy attachment and detachment of hydraulic-powered tools.
Pay close attention to the correct flow direction indicated on the hydraulic hoses, as improper connections can lead to poor performance or even equipment damage.
Step 6: Install the Control Lever
The control lever for operating the rear SCVs should be installed in the operator’s cabin for easy access. This will allow the operator to control the rear SCVs without having to leave the seat. In some cases, the system can be integrated with the existing controls of the dozer, so ensure that wiring and controls are set up as needed.
Step 7: Test the System
After installation, it’s essential to test the system to ensure everything is functioning properly. Start the dozer and operate the rear SCVs to verify that hydraulic fluid is flowing correctly and that attachments are being powered as expected. If there are any leaks, tighten the fittings and check again.
Step 8: Check for Leaks and Final Adjustments
Inspect the entire hydraulic circuit for any signs of leaks. Pay attention to the valve and connection points, ensuring everything is tight and secure. If everything is functioning properly, complete the installation by filling the hydraulic fluid to the required level.
Maintenance Tips for Rear SCVs
Once the rear SCVs have been installed, proper maintenance is key to ensuring long-term performance. Here are a few tips to maintain the system:
Adding rear SCVs to your John Deere 850K enhances the dozer's versatility and efficiency, making it suitable for a broader range of applications. Whether you're working in construction, landscaping, forestry, or earthmoving, this simple modification can unlock the full potential of your dozer, saving time, increasing productivity, and giving you more control over your attachments.
Additionally, rear SCVs can increase the resale value of your equipment. Potential buyers or operators looking for a dozer with multiple hydraulic connections will see the added SCVs as a valuable feature.
Conclusion
Adding rear SCVs to your John Deere 850K is a smart investment that provides increased functionality, flexibility, and productivity on the job site. With careful planning, proper installation, and regular maintenance, your dozer will become an even more powerful tool for tackling a wider variety of projects.
As with any modification, it's important to ensure compatibility and consult with a John Deere expert when necessary. Once completed, you will have a more efficient and capable machine ready to take on a range of new tasks.
This article will explore why and how to add rear SCVs to your John Deere 850K, and how this modification can expand the capabilities of your dozer.
Why Add Rear SCVs to Your 850K?
Adding rear SCVs to your dozer might seem like a simple modification, but it opens up a whole new range of possibilities. Here's why many operators choose to add rear SCVs:
- Enhanced Attachment Versatility
- By adding rear SCVs, you can connect additional attachments that require hydraulic connections at the rear of the dozer. This could include rippers, winches, or other equipment that can significantly improve your productivity and job site versatility.
- By adding rear SCVs, you can connect additional attachments that require hydraulic connections at the rear of the dozer. This could include rippers, winches, or other equipment that can significantly improve your productivity and job site versatility.
- Increased Productivity
- The addition of rear SCVs can allow for more efficient workflow, reducing the need to switch attachments or move machinery to different locations on the site. For example, when using a ripper or winch, having rear SCVs allows for better control and more seamless operation, ultimately improving output and reducing downtime.
- The addition of rear SCVs can allow for more efficient workflow, reducing the need to switch attachments or move machinery to different locations on the site. For example, when using a ripper or winch, having rear SCVs allows for better control and more seamless operation, ultimately improving output and reducing downtime.
- Greater Control Over Attachments
- With rear SCVs, you can better control attachments from the comfort of the operator’s seat, adjusting the flow of hydraulic fluid to fine-tune attachment functions, improving the precision of your work.
- With rear SCVs, you can better control attachments from the comfort of the operator’s seat, adjusting the flow of hydraulic fluid to fine-tune attachment functions, improving the precision of your work.
- Maximize the Efficiency of Your 850K
- The John Deere 850K is designed for heavy-duty tasks, and adding rear SCVs makes it more adaptable to various industries, including forestry, construction, and land clearing. Whether you’re pulling a winch for logging or operating a ripper for land reclamation, rear SCVs make your dozer even more versatile.
- The John Deere 850K is designed for heavy-duty tasks, and adding rear SCVs makes it more adaptable to various industries, including forestry, construction, and land clearing. Whether you’re pulling a winch for logging or operating a ripper for land reclamation, rear SCVs make your dozer even more versatile.
Before you begin, it’s important to ensure that you have the proper tools, equipment, and knowledge to perform the modification. If you're not comfortable performing the installation yourself, it’s always recommended to consult a certified John Deere technician.
Here’s a general step-by-step guide to adding rear SCVs to your 850K:
Step 1: Verify Compatibility
Before proceeding with any modifications, confirm that your John Deere 850K is compatible with the addition of rear SCVs. Many modern dozers have factory-compatible options, but it's essential to verify with John Deere’s official parts catalog or consult with a dealer. Some models may require additional components like special hydraulic kits.
Step 2: Select the Correct SCV Kit
John Deere offers various SCV kits designed for different types of equipment. These kits typically include the necessary valves, hoses, and fittings required for the installation. Choose the appropriate kit that fits the hydraulic requirements of your dozer and the attachments you intend to use. Make sure the kit is designed for rear hydraulic function to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Step 3: Drain Hydraulic System
To avoid any accidents or contamination, begin by draining the hydraulic system. Ensure that the system is powered off and pressure is relieved before starting any installation process. Follow the procedure outlined in the operator’s manual to safely drain and depressurize the hydraulic fluid.
Step 4: Install the SCV Valve
Locate the proper mounting location for the SCV valve on the rear of the dozer. The valve should be easily accessible to the operator, and its installation location must allow for effective connection to the rear hydraulic components. Typically, this installation is done on the dozer's rear frame, near the hydraulic reservoir.
Once you’ve identified the location, mount the SCV valve securely using the provided brackets and bolts. Ensure that all fittings are tightened to prevent leaks.
Step 5: Connect Hydraulic Lines
With the valve securely mounted, connect the hydraulic lines from the valve to the hydraulic circuit. These lines should be routed carefully, ensuring they do not interfere with any moving parts. Use hydraulic quick-connect couplings where necessary for easy attachment and detachment of hydraulic-powered tools.
Pay close attention to the correct flow direction indicated on the hydraulic hoses, as improper connections can lead to poor performance or even equipment damage.
Step 6: Install the Control Lever
The control lever for operating the rear SCVs should be installed in the operator’s cabin for easy access. This will allow the operator to control the rear SCVs without having to leave the seat. In some cases, the system can be integrated with the existing controls of the dozer, so ensure that wiring and controls are set up as needed.
Step 7: Test the System
After installation, it’s essential to test the system to ensure everything is functioning properly. Start the dozer and operate the rear SCVs to verify that hydraulic fluid is flowing correctly and that attachments are being powered as expected. If there are any leaks, tighten the fittings and check again.
Step 8: Check for Leaks and Final Adjustments
Inspect the entire hydraulic circuit for any signs of leaks. Pay attention to the valve and connection points, ensuring everything is tight and secure. If everything is functioning properly, complete the installation by filling the hydraulic fluid to the required level.
Maintenance Tips for Rear SCVs
Once the rear SCVs have been installed, proper maintenance is key to ensuring long-term performance. Here are a few tips to maintain the system:
- Regularly inspect hydraulic hoses for wear, cracks, or leaks. Replace damaged hoses immediately to avoid system failures.
- Check hydraulic fluid levels regularly to ensure the system operates at peak efficiency.
- Clean the SCV valves periodically to remove debris or dirt that could cause clogging or blockages.
- Test SCVs during routine maintenance to ensure they are working smoothly and without hesitation.
Adding rear SCVs to your John Deere 850K enhances the dozer's versatility and efficiency, making it suitable for a broader range of applications. Whether you're working in construction, landscaping, forestry, or earthmoving, this simple modification can unlock the full potential of your dozer, saving time, increasing productivity, and giving you more control over your attachments.
Additionally, rear SCVs can increase the resale value of your equipment. Potential buyers or operators looking for a dozer with multiple hydraulic connections will see the added SCVs as a valuable feature.
Conclusion
Adding rear SCVs to your John Deere 850K is a smart investment that provides increased functionality, flexibility, and productivity on the job site. With careful planning, proper installation, and regular maintenance, your dozer will become an even more powerful tool for tackling a wider variety of projects.
As with any modification, it's important to ensure compatibility and consult with a John Deere expert when necessary. Once completed, you will have a more efficient and capable machine ready to take on a range of new tasks.
