Installing a Flow Valve on Hydraulics

Where to Install

A flow valve is meant to shut off a hydraulic system when a certain amount of pressure exists in that system. This is to protect the motor and sensitive parts from damage. So, the flow valve must be installed where it can protect the motor. The best position for the flow valve is right in the intake of the motor housing. This intake is where the hydraulic fluid enters the machine. It is usually located on the side of the box next to the fly wheel or motor turbines.

Installation Tips

When installing the flow valve, first select the right-sized component to fit your machine. Most motors will notate the size of the inlet port in their documentation. The flow valve outlet must meet these dimensions (expressed as a diameter). If you want to use a flow valve that is larger or smaller, you can, but you will have to use an attachment diameter, and this may not be the right solution for every machine. Once you have the proper diameter valve, thread it into the intake and tighten with a hex head wrench. Then connect the hydraulic hose to the flow valve.

Other Considerations

The flow valve should be set to close when a pressure level is reached; this level should be listed on the flow valve meter. If not, set some flow valves to certain pressure ratings, but the most simple are preset to close at one pressure rating. Attaching the flow valve to the engine will add some additional space in the gap where the hose attaches to the motor. If there is limited space, find another component. Installing a valve that may come in contact with other moving parts or makes the connection to the hydraulic hose can cause the machine to malfunction.

Attaching the Hoses

Hook up the hydraulic hose once the valve is connected. This requires closing the needle valve and completely shutting down the hydraulic pump, which feeds the fluid into the motor. Before you attach the hose, you must also "deadhead" everything so there is no flow. Then reset the pumper to its slowest rating and begin to circulate fluid through the pump and into the motor. Monitor the system and reduce the flow if the valve shuts down the machine.