Changing Control Patterns on a Volvo EC140DL Without a Factory Pattern Selector

[MikePhua]

The Volvo EC140DL and Operator Control Standards
The Volvo EC140DL is a 14-ton class hydraulic excavator designed for general earthmoving, utility trenching, and light demolition. Built with Volvo’s D4H engine and advanced hydraulic system, the EC140DL offers smooth control and fuel efficiency. Like many modern excavators, it’s equipped with pilot-operated joystick controls, but not all units come with a factory-installed pattern selector valve.
Control pattern refers to the joystick configuration used to operate boom, arm, bucket, and swing functions. The two dominant standards are:

• ISO Pattern: Left joystick controls swing and boom; right joystick controls arm and bucket.
  
• SAE Pattern (also called “John Deere”): Left joystick controls swing and arm; right joystick controls boom and bucket.
  

Terminology:

• Pilot Control: A low-pressure hydraulic system that actuates main control valves via joystick input.
  
• Pattern Selector Valve: A hydraulic diverter that reassigns pilot lines to change joystick behavior.
  

Manual Pattern Change Without a Selector Valve
If your EC140DL lacks a factory pattern selector, the only way to change control layout is by manually rerouting pilot hoses beneath the control levers. This involves identifying the pilot lines that correspond to each joystick function and swapping them to match the desired pattern.
Steps for manual change:

• Remove the floor panels or access covers beneath the joysticks
  
• Identify pilot hoses using colored cable ties or tags
  
• Vent the hydraulic tank to relieve pressure
  
• Disconnect and swap the appropriate hoses
  
• Plug open ports quickly to minimize fluid loss
  
• Test each function slowly to confirm correct routing
  

Recommended precautions:

• Use clean plugs and rags to prevent contamination
  
• Label each hose before removal to avoid confusion
  
• Keep a diagram of both ISO and SAE routing for reference
  

Terminology:

• Pilot Hose: A flexible hydraulic line carrying low-pressure fluid from the joystick to the main valve.
  
• Vent the Tank: Releasing built-up pressure in the hydraulic reservoir to prevent spray or spills during hose work.
  

A technician in Georgia successfully converted his EC140DL by swapping four pilot hoses beneath the control levers. He used colored zip ties to mark each hose and confirmed the new pattern by gently operating each function with the engine at idle.
Why Pattern Standardization Still Varies
Despite decades of industry use, excavator control patterns remain regionally inconsistent. ISO is dominant in North America and Europe, while SAE is still preferred by some operators trained on older John Deere machines. Manufacturers like Caterpillar and Komatsu often include selector valves as standard, but Volvo has historically offered them as optional.
Reasons for variation:

• Operator training legacy
  
• Regional dealer preferences
  
• Fleet standardization across brands
  
• Cost-saving on base models
  

Terminology:

• Fleet Standardization: Ensuring all machines in a company’s fleet use the same control layout to reduce training time and operator error.
  
• Selector Valve Delete: A cost-reduction measure where the factory omits the pattern change valve from base models.
  

In 2021, a rental company in Texas retrofitted 12 Volvo excavators with manual pattern selectors to match their mixed fleet of Komatsu and CAT machines, citing reduced operator confusion and fewer jobsite incidents.
Alternatives to Manual Hose Swapping
If frequent pattern changes are needed, installing an aftermarket selector valve is a more efficient solution. These valves are mounted between the pilot control levers and the main valve block, allowing the operator to switch patterns with a lever or switch.
Aftermarket selector valve benefits:

• Quick change between ISO and SAE
  
• No need to disconnect hoses
  
• Reduced risk of contamination or misrouting
  
• Ideal for shared machines or rental fleets
  

Installation tips:

• Use OEM-style fittings and hoses
  
• Mount selector in an accessible location
  
• Label switch positions clearly
  
• Test for leaks and proper function after installation
  

Terminology:

• Aftermarket Selector Valve: A non-factory valve added to allow pattern switching without manual hose rerouting.
  
• Valve Block: The central hydraulic manifold that distributes fluid to actuators based on pilot input.
  

A contractor in Ontario installed selector valves on all his mid-size excavators after hiring operators trained in both patterns. The investment paid off in reduced downtime and improved safety.
Conclusion
Changing the control pattern on a Volvo EC140DL without a selector valve is entirely possible through manual hose rerouting, but it requires care, labeling, and a clear understanding of pilot hydraulics. For operators who switch patterns often, installing a selector valve is a worthwhile upgrade. Whether you prefer ISO or SAE, the key is consistency, safety, and making sure every operator knows what to expect before pulling a lever. In the world of excavators, control isn’t just about hydraulics—it’s about muscle memory.