Hydraulic Diverter Kit for John Deere 310SG: Insight, Options, and Practical Considerations

[MikePhua]

What Is a Hydraulic Diverter Kit
A hydraulic diverter (or “third-function”) kit allows you to redirect hydraulic flow from a tractor or backhoe’s existing auxiliary circuit to drive an additional implement—such as a grapple, auger, or hydraulic thumb—without interfering with the primary loader or backhoe functions. This capability is especially useful on a John Deere 310SG backhoe loader, because it adds versatility by giving you a dedicated output for attachments, enabling dual‑circuit control.
Why Install One on a 310SG
The John Deere 310SG is a versatile backhoe loader used in construction, landscaping, and heavy‑dirt work. While the machine already offers dedicated hydraulic circuits for the loader and backhoe, a diverter kit unlocks the ability to run a third function:

• Operate a hydraulic thumb to pick up brush, debris, or irregular objects
  
• Use an auger for drilling post holes without constant manual connections
  
• Employ a grapple for clearing and loading tasks
  
• Run a breaker or rock hammer without tying up existing circuits
  

By doing so, the machine becomes more efficient on the job, reducing the need to frequently change hydraulic lines or rely on external power units.
Core Hydraulic Concepts

• Selector/Diverter Valve: The core of the kit. This valve directs or “diverts” hydraulic flow between two circuits—typically between a standard auxiliary and a third-function outlet.
  
• Solenoid‑Operated Valve: Many diverter kits use an electrically controlled solenoid to switch flow, allowing seamless control via a toggle switch or joystick.
  
• Flow Capacity: Measured in gallons per minute (GPM), the valve must handle your machine’s hydraulic flow rate without causing performance loss.
  

Here are some highlights:

• Summit Hydraulics Diverter: A standard solenoid‑controlled diverter valve, ideal for adding a dedicated output to your JD backhoe.
  
• Summit Multiplier Selector: Premium version with built-in switch and 13 GPM capacity, good for high‑flow attachments.
  
• Summit 3rd Function Valve Kit: Complete kit including joystick handle, diverter valve, and hoses—designed for implement control.
  
• Summit Electric Diverter Kit: Adds electrical control to your diverter, allowing remote switching from the cab.
  
• Farmer Bob 2‑Circuit Hydraulic Kit: A budget-friendly solution that enables a second circuit and third function without sacrificing much flow.
  
• Summit Solenoid Selector Valve: A compact solenoid valve for diverter/splitter applications, helpful if space is tight.
  
• Universal Multiplier Splitter/Diverter: Highly flexible design, works with many machines; good if you plan to move the diverter between units.
  
• Extended Tractor Remote Diverter: Designed with a longer body to make installation easier on tight or crowded hydraulic systems.
  

John Deere OEM Option
John Deere offers a factory diverter option under part number BXX10198, referred to as a “Single‑Point Hydraulic Connection Diverter Attachment.” This OEM solution is designed for Deere machines to safely and reliably manage third‑function attachment control.
Installation Tips and Common Issues

• Mounting: Choose a stable point on the existing hydraulic circuit, ideally near the existing auxiliary valve.
  
• Electrical Wiring: If the kit uses a solenoid, you’ll need to run a 12V wire from a switch to the valve. Ensure the power draws are properly fused.
  
• Bleeding the System: After installation, cycle through the new valve repeatedly to remove air. Hydraulic systems with diverters can trap air more easily.
  
• Flow Balance: Some diverters may cause slight flow loss through the main auxiliary circuit; check attachment performance and adjust accordingly.
  
• Fittings and Hoses: Use high-quality hydraulic hose rated for your machine’s maximum pressure. Avoid restrictive fittings that choke flow.
  
• Maintenance: Periodically inspect the diverter valve for leaks or solenoid wear—this is a high-stress component.
  

Advantages and Trade‑offs
Pros:

• Increases machine versatility
  
• Saves time swapping hydraulic lines
  
• Allows use of more attachments
  
• Improves productivity
  

Cons:

• Extra installation cost
  
• Slight drop in flow may occur
  
• Additional point of potential hydraulic failure
  
• Electrical and hydraulic complexity added
  

Real-World Use Case
A landscaping contractor with a John Deere 310SG installed a third-function diverter. By doing so, he was able to switch between a hydraulic thumb to pick up brush and a trenching bucket without manually disconnecting hoses. The upgrade saved him nearly 20 minutes per “pick‑trench‑dump” cycle. Over the course of a season, the increased efficiency paid for the diverter kit several times over.
When to Consider a Diverter Kit
This upgrade is worth it when:

• You frequently use grapple, auger, or other hydraulically powered attachments.
  
• You want to avoid hassle of constantly disconnecting lines.
  
• Your auxiliary hydraulic circuit has spare flow capacity.
  
• You’re aiming to maximize efficiency and reduce cycle times.
  

Conclusion
Adding a hydraulic diverter kit to a John Deere 310SG backhoe loader is a smart way to expand your machine’s capabilities, turning it into a more flexible tool for digging, grappling, drilling, and more. Whether you go with a well-known aftermarket option or Deere’s own BXX10198 diverter, the key is to select based on compatibility, flow requirements, and how you operate. With proper installation and maintenance, a diverter kit can significantly boost your productivity and unlock new jobsite possibilities.