Adding Auxiliary Hydraulics to Heavy Equipment

[MikePhua]

Auxiliary hydraulics are crucial additions to many types of heavy equipment, allowing machines to power external attachments like hydraulic breakers, augers, or grapples. For those who use skid steers, tractors, or excavators, the option to add auxiliary hydraulics can greatly enhance the versatility and functionality of their equipment. This article explores the process of adding auxiliary hydraulics, the benefits, and key considerations for operators.
What Are Auxiliary Hydraulics?
Auxiliary hydraulics refer to a secondary hydraulic circuit installed on machines to power external attachments. These systems are typically powered by the main hydraulic pump of the machine and provide the necessary fluid pressure and flow to operate attachments. Skid steers, backhoes, and mini-excavators commonly use auxiliary hydraulics, as they require an additional hydraulic supply to run attachments like augers, trenchers, or hydraulic thumbs.
Auxiliary hydraulic systems are typically controlled through either a joystick, foot pedal, or an additional control lever within the operator's station. They are either a single or double-acting system, depending on whether the attachment requires fluid to flow in one direction or both.
The Benefits of Adding Auxiliary Hydraulics
Adding auxiliary hydraulics to your equipment provides several significant advantages:

1. Increased Versatility: With auxiliary hydraulics, you can operate a wide range of attachments. For instance, a skid steer loader with auxiliary hydraulics can power attachments such as hydraulic breakers, brush cutters, or soil augers, greatly expanding the machine’s capability.
   
2. Improved Efficiency: Using hydraulic attachments makes tasks like digging, grading, or demolition much faster and more efficient. For example, using a hydraulic thumb on an excavator allows for quicker material handling, reducing manual labor and increasing productivity.
   
3. Cost-Effectiveness: Auxiliary hydraulics can save money over time by allowing operators to perform multiple tasks with one machine and a set of attachments. Instead of purchasing separate equipment for each task, you can use one machine for many different operations.
   
4. Better Performance: Auxiliary hydraulics ensure that attachments operate with greater force and precision. For attachments requiring constant pressure, such as a hydraulic hammer or post driver, auxiliary hydraulics provide the necessary flow and pressure to get the job done efficiently.
   

Challenges of Adding Auxiliary Hydraulics
While adding auxiliary hydraulics offers many advantages, the process isn’t without its challenges. One of the main concerns is ensuring that the system is compatible with the machine's existing hydraulic setup. Some older models may not have the necessary hydraulic components or wiring to accommodate auxiliary hydraulics, requiring an upgrade or modification to the system.
Additionally, adding auxiliary hydraulics can increase the machine’s overall complexity. Operators must be familiar with how to properly use the additional controls and ensure that the hydraulic flow is regulated correctly. Incorrect pressure or flow can damage the hydraulic attachments, leading to costly repairs.
How to Add Auxiliary Hydraulics
Adding auxiliary hydraulics to a piece of equipment generally involves a few basic steps:

1. Assess the Machine's Hydraulic System: First, check if your machine already has the capability for auxiliary hydraulics. Many modern machines are pre-plumbed for auxiliary hydraulics, meaning that all that’s needed is to install the control valve and hoses.
   
2. Install the Auxiliary Hydraulics Kit: If your machine is not pre-plumbed, you will need to install a hydraulic kit. This usually involves attaching the kit to the main hydraulic system of the machine. The kit will include hoses, a control valve, and an attachment point for the hydraulic connections.
   
3. Control System Installation: Depending on the machine, you may need to install an additional control system. This could be a joystick, lever, or foot pedal that allows the operator to control the hydraulic flow to the attachment.
   
4. Check Hydraulic Flow and Pressure: After installation, it’s important to check the system for proper flow and pressure. Hydraulic flow is typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and pressure in PSI (pounds per square inch). The attachment manufacturer will specify the required flow and pressure for optimal operation, and your system should be calibrated to meet those requirements.
   
5. Test the System: Before using the equipment in the field, conduct a test to ensure everything is working correctly. Test the machine with various attachments to make sure the auxiliary hydraulics are providing the correct flow, pressure, and response time.
   

Key Considerations When Adding Auxiliary Hydraulics
When adding auxiliary hydraulics to your equipment, it’s important to consider the following factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure that the hydraulic system is compatible with the attachments you plan to use. Each attachment may have specific hydraulic requirements, so check the flow rate and pressure specifications to avoid damaging the attachment or the machine’s hydraulic system.
  
• Capacity of the Hydraulic System: Some machines, especially older models, may have hydraulic systems that cannot support additional auxiliary hydraulic lines. Upgrading the hydraulic pump, hoses, and valves may be necessary to ensure that the system can handle the increased load.
  
• Attachment Selection: Choose attachments that are designed to work with your machine’s hydraulic system. Using attachments that exceed the recommended flow or pressure can cause the machine to overheat or the attachment to malfunction.
  
• Maintenance: Adding auxiliary hydraulics increases the complexity of the machine’s hydraulic system, making it more susceptible to wear and tear. Regularly inspect hoses, fittings, and control valves for leaks or damage. Flushing the hydraulic system regularly helps to prevent contamination and ensures smooth operation.
  

Conclusion
Adding auxiliary hydraulics to your heavy equipment is a valuable upgrade that enhances the versatility and productivity of your machine. Whether you’re using a skid steer, backhoe, or mini-excavator, auxiliary hydraulics allow you to power a wide variety of attachments and tackle a broader range of tasks. However, it’s essential to ensure compatibility, select the right attachments, and regularly maintain the system to prevent issues.
For anyone looking to expand their equipment’s capabilities, auxiliary hydraulics offer a cost-effective solution. By understanding the installation process, challenges, and maintenance requirements, operators can optimize their machines for greater performance and efficiency.