WORKSHOP: With the right connectors and a bit of know-how, a tractor with closed-centre hydraulics can be retrofitted with Power Beyond. Here we outline how we did this on a 2003 Case IH CVX tractor. Next month’s Part 2 follow-up shows a ‘pseudo’ load-sensing system that can be made to work with tractors with a constant-flow pump.
The full list of equipment that can be operated by a tractor’s load-sensing hydraulic system continues to expand and can now include balers, rakes, drills and forage wagons. To exploit all the
benefits on offer, it follows that the tractor will need a Power Beyond (PB) system. If one is not in place, it is possible to fit one to the tractor, as we outline here.
NOTE: Power Beyond retrofit kits are readily available for a variety of makes and model of tractor. As an example, kits for some John Deere 6000 and 7000 series models are sold for under £300.
Where to connect the lines?
Job one is to establish where the supply line (P), the return line (T) and the control line (LS) enter the rear spools. The supply lines are difficult to access, all the more so where the valve couplings are stacked with the hoses connected to the bottom. A separate LS mounting plate for the PB valves will be needed, a bracket we could use for a mounting plate already being in place on our tractor.
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