Specifications
| Auger/Chain Port | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
|---|---|
| GPS Capable? | No |
| GPS Included? | No |
| Hoist Action | Power Up/Power Down - 1 Port Relief |
| Hoist Control Included | Yes |
| Hoist Control Type | Electric |
| Inlet Port | 3/4 SAE ORB (-12) |
| Magnetic Drain Plug | Yes |
| Main Relief Setting | 3000 |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 28 |
| Maximum Pressure | 3000 |
| Number of Functions Supported | 6 |
| Oil Level/Temperature Gauge Included | Yes |
| Outlet Port | 2 NPT |
| Plow Action | Power Up/Power Down |
| Plow Control Included | Yes |
| Plow Control Type | Electric |
| Port Relief Angle | 1800 |
| Port Relief Hoist | 500 |
| Reservoir Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Reservoir Mount Position | Side Mount |
| Reservoir Type | Standard |
| Reservoir Volume (Gal.) | 15 |
| Return Line Filter Flow Rating | 26 |
| Return Line Filter Included? | Yes |
| Return Line Filter Rating | 10 |
| Spinner Port | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
| Spreader Control Included | Yes |
| Spreader Control Type | Electric Over Hydraulic |
| Spreader Controller | HVC06 |
| Suction Filter Rating | 150 |
| Suction Filter Flow Rating | 49 |
| Suction Filter Included? | Yes |
| Suction Port | 2 NPT |
| Work Ports | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
Advanced Technical Overview: 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System - 6 Function, Electric On/Off
The Buyers Products 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System represents a robust and highly integrated solution for managing multiple critical hydraulic functions on vocational trucks engaged in demanding light to medium duty applications. Engineered for optimal efficiency, durability, and user convenience, this system centralizes the power and control for up to six distinct hydraulic operations, thereby simplifying complex vehicle upfits and enhancing operational performance. This particular configuration, denoted by its "Electric On/Off" and "Standard Reservoir, No GPS" specifications, focuses on providing reliable, direct control without the added complexity of ground speed integration, offering a streamlined yet powerful hydraulic management platform.
At its core, the central hydraulic system philosophy revolves around a singular, high-capacity hydraulic reservoir and integrated valve bank. This design significantly reduces the number of individual hydraulic pumps, reservoirs, and extensive plumbing typically required for separate auxiliary systems. The result is a substantial reduction in installation time and cost, a more organized vehicle chassis with less exposed hydraulic lines, and a superior operating environment within the cab due to the externalization of hydraulic components. The system's maximum flow rate of 28 GPM and a robust maximum pressure rating of 3000 PSI ensure ample power delivery for the intended applications, facilitated by a main relief setting calibrated to 3000 PSI for system protection.
Integrated 6-Function Capability
This central hydraulic system is meticulously designed to support six independent hydraulic functions, providing comprehensive control over key implements used in municipal, commercial, and utility operations. The functions are precisely controlled via electric-over-hydraulic mechanisms, offering responsive and accurate command from the operator's station. The six functions are delineated as follows:
- Plow Lift (3-Way): This function enables the precise raising and lowering of a snowplow. The 3-way valve configuration provides both power-up and power-down capabilities, ensuring efficient and controlled vertical movement of the plow blade. The electric control allows for quick engagement, and the integrated plow switch features detents for a float position, crucial for allowing the plow to follow ground contours effectively without operator intervention.
- Plow Angle (4-Way): Critical for effective snow removal, the 4-way plow angle function allows for powered angling of the plow blade to the left or right. This dual-action control provides dynamic adjustment, optimizing snow displacement and minimizing pass overlap. To protect the plow and hydraulic system from shock loads and potential damage during angling, two dedicated port reliefs are incorporated, set at 1800 PSI, which safely bypass excess pressure when unexpected forces are encountered.
- Hoist (4-Way Double-Acting Dump Hoist): Designed for dump body operations, this function provides a 4-way double-acting (DA) hoist control. This means the hoist cylinder is powered both up and down, offering precise control over the dump body's movement and enabling controlled lowering even with variable loads. A dedicated down port relief, set at 500 PSI, ensures smooth and safe descent while protecting the cylinder from overpressure. The inclusion of 'power beyond' capability further enhances versatility, allowing additional hydraulic circuits to be operated downstream from the hoist valve, if required for other implements.
- Spreader Auger/Conveyor (Proportional): This function controls the auger or conveyor system responsible for feeding material from the spreader hopper. The system incorporates proportional control, allowing the operator to finely tune the speed of the auger or conveyor, directly impacting the material discharge rate. This precision is vital for achieving consistent and optimal spread patterns, minimizing material waste, and adapting to varying operational conditions. The dedicated port for the auger/chain is a 1/2 SAE ORB (-8).
- Spreader Spinner (Proportional): The spinner function manages the rotation speed of the spreader's dispersal disc. Similar to the auger/conveyor, this is controlled proportionally, enabling operators to adjust the spread width and pattern with high accuracy. Coordinated proportional control of both auger and spinner allows for fine-tuning the material application, critical for effective de-icing and road treatment. The spinner port is also a 1/2 SAE ORB (-8).
- Sixth Function (e.g., Auxiliary Hydraulic Tool): While the core spreader operations account for the auger and spinner, the system's 6-function capacity provides flexibility. For this specific "No GPS" model, the pre-wet system, which is typically a third spreader function, is not included. The modularity of the valve bank design allows for potential customization or allocation of the sixth function to an auxiliary hydraulic tool or another application as needed, ensuring the system can adapt to specific fleet requirements. Work Ports are provided as 1/2 SAE ORB (-8).
Electric In-Cab Controls and User Experience
A hallmark of this central hydraulic system is its advanced electric in-cab control interface. This system eliminates the traditional method of running multiple hydraulic hoses into the truck's cabin, which is fraught with disadvantages such as increased noise, heat transfer, potential for hydraulic fluid leaks, and significant installation complexity. By moving all hydraulic control valves to the external reservoir assembly, the electric control system achieves:
- Enhanced Cab Comfort: Operators benefit from a quieter, cooler, and cleaner cab environment, free from hydraulic noise and heat.
- Simplified Installation: Running low-voltage electrical wiring is significantly less labor-intensive and faster than routing and securing hydraulic hoses, leading to reduced installation costs and vehicle downtime.
- Optimized Cab Space: The compact nature of electric control modules frees up valuable space within the cab, allowing for a cleaner dashboard and improved ergonomics.
- Precision and Responsiveness: The electric-over-hydraulic control system, featuring an LED display and indexed dials, provides immediate and precise command over all functions. Proportional control for spreader and auger speed allows for fine adjustments on the fly, empowering operators to maintain optimal performance in diverse conditions. The HVC06 Spreader Controller ensures robust and reliable electronic management.
Reservoir Design and Material Durability
The 15-gallon hydraulic reservoir assembly is a testament to robust engineering and material selection, designed to withstand the harshest operating conditions. Constructed from premium 304 stainless steel, the reservoir offers exceptional resistance to corrosion from road grime, de-icing salts, chemicals, and extreme weather. This material choice ensures a prolonged service life and maintains structural integrity over years of demanding use, critical for municipal and commercial fleets. The side-mount position of the reservoir is engineered for efficient space utilization on the vehicle chassis.
Beyond its material, the reservoir incorporates several critical features for system longevity and operational reliability:
- Integrated Valve Enclosure: A dedicated enclosure for all directional valves and spreader controls is directly mounted on the tank. This stainless steel enclosure, equipped with a secure latching lid, provides vital protection for the sensitive hydraulic components from physical damage, moisture, and environmental contaminants. This integrated design also significantly streamlines plumbing, reducing the number of external hose runs and potential leak points, while making routine service and inspection straightforward.
- In-Tank Return Filter Assembly: Hydraulic fluid cleanliness is paramount for the longevity of system components. This system includes an in-tank return filter with a 10-micron rating and a flow rating of 26 GPM. This filter captures contaminants returning from the hydraulic circuit, preventing them from re-circulating and causing wear to pumps, valves, and actuators.
- Suction Filter: Complementing the return line filtration, a 150-micron suction filter, with a flow rating of 49 GPM, is also included. Positioned at the pump inlet, this filter protects the main hydraulic pump from larger particulate matter, serving as a primary defense against pump cavitation and damage.
- Filler-Strainer Breather Cap Assembly: This component serves multiple functions: allowing for easy hydraulic fluid replenishment, providing a coarse straining action to prevent larger particles from entering the tank during filling, and permitting the reservoir to "breathe" as fluid levels fluctuate due to thermal expansion/contraction and cylinder movement. The breather element ensures that only clean air enters the tank, preventing atmospheric contaminants from compromising fluid integrity.
- Shielded Sight Temperature Gauge: An essential diagnostic tool, the shielded sight temperature gauge allows operators and maintenance personnel to visually monitor both the hydraulic fluid level and its operating temperature. Maintaining fluid within specified levels and temperature ranges is critical for optimal system performance and preventing premature component wear.
- Magnetic Drain Plug: To further enhance fluid cleanliness and facilitate maintenance, a magnetic drain plug is included. This plug attracts and captures ferrous metallic particles that may be suspended in the hydraulic fluid, providing an early indicator of potential internal wear and preventing these particles from circulating and causing further damage.
Hydraulic Circuitry and Performance Characteristics
The system's hydraulic performance is carefully balanced to meet the demands of its intended applications. The hydraulic pump (external to this system, typically a PTO-driven pump on the vehicle) feeds pressurized fluid into the central manifold. An adjustable flow divider valve, capable of handling up to 30 GPM, ensures that the appropriate flow rate is directed to the various functions. The main relief valve, set at 3000 PSI, acts as a critical safety device, protecting the entire system from overpressure by diverting excess fluid back to the reservoir when the maximum pressure threshold is reached.
Specific functions feature tailored flow rates and pressure relief settings:
- The plow lift/angle circuit operates at 11 GPM, providing sufficient speed for responsive blade movements.
- Port reliefs for the plow angle (1800 PSI) and hoist (500 PSI) are strategically placed to absorb transient pressure spikes, thereby extending the life of cylinders and other components while preventing structural damage to the implements.
Connectivity and Integration
Standardized port configurations facilitate straightforward plumbing and integration with various hydraulic implements. The inlet port is a 3/4 SAE ORB (-12), while the main outlet port is a 2 NPT. Specific work ports for the auger/chain, spinner, and general work functions are all 1/2 SAE ORB (-8). These SAE ORB (O-Ring Boss) connections are favored in modern hydraulic systems for their superior sealing capabilities, which minimize the risk of leaks compared to traditional tapered pipe threads.
Critical Load Holding Considerations
As a professional-grade hydraulic system, it is imperative to address critical load holding requirements. While the system provides robust operational control, for applications where hydraulic cylinders must hold heavy loads indefinitely against gravity or external forces, the installer is advised to incorporate Pilot Operated (P.O.) checks or counterbalance valves into the specific hydraulic circuits. These specialized valves prevent cylinder drift or uncontrolled movement, ensuring the safety and stability of the load. This highlights the modularity and adaptability of the system for specialized requirements, allowing for custom safety enhancements beyond the standard package.
Installation, Serviceability, and Applications
The "quick and easy to install" and "simple service" attributes are direct results of the system's integrated and well-organized design. By centralizing components, the installation process is primarily focused on mounting the single reservoir assembly, connecting the main hydraulic lines to the pump, and running electrical control cables to the cab. All necessary valves are already pre-mounted and pre-plumbed within the protective enclosure, drastically reducing the complexity and potential for errors during setup.
Maintenance is equally simplified. Routine checks of fluid levels and temperature are made easy by the shielded sight gauge. Filter changes are facilitated by the in-tank design, and access to all critical valves is readily available within the latching stainless steel enclosure. This design philosophy minimizes downtime for maintenance and maximizes operational availability.
The 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System is optimally suited for a diverse range of light to medium duty applications where robust, reliable, and integrated hydraulic control is essential. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Municipal Fleets: For snow and ice control (plows, salt spreaders), street sweeping, and general utility work.
- Commercial Landscaping: Operating dump bodies, salt spreaders, and potentially other hydraulic attachments.
- Property Management: For maintaining large commercial or residential properties, especially during winter months.
- Construction Support: For light duty dump applications and auxiliary equipment control.
In conclusion, the Buyers Products 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System with 6 functions and Electric On/Off controls offers an expertly engineered, high-performance hydraulic management solution. Its durable 304 stainless steel construction, advanced electric controls, comprehensive filtration, and integrated design provide unparalleled reliability, ease of use, and a superior operational experience for demanding vocational tasks. This system is a strategic investment for any fleet seeking to optimize efficiency, reduce installation complexity, and enhance the longevity of their hydraulic power solutions.
