Specifications
| Auger/Chain Port | 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) |
|---|---|
| GPS Capable? | Yes |
| GPS Included? | Yes |
| Hoist Action | Power Up/Power Down - 1 Port Relief |
| Hoist Control Included | Yes |
| Inlet Port | 3/4 SAE ORB (-12) |
| Magnetic Drain Plug | Yes |
| Main Relief Setting | 2500 |
| 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 | Compact |
| 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) |
The Buyers Products 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System represents a paradigm shift in the management and operation of complex mobile equipment for a diverse range of light to medium duty applications. Engineered with precision and robust materials, this 6-function system integrates an electric on/off control mechanism and an advanced GPS-based ground speed control, delivering unparalleled efficiency, control, and operational simplicity. This comprehensive solution is meticulously designed to power and orchestrate critical functions such as hydraulic hoists, plows, material spreaders, and pre-wet systems from a single, centralized power unit, thereby streamlining installation, optimizing performance, and enhancing operator experience.
The Central Hydraulic System Advantage: Integrated Power and Control
A central hydraulic system consolidates all necessary hydraulic components into a single, compact unit, offering substantial benefits over dispersed individual systems. By integrating the reservoir, pump (operating at a maximum flow rate of 28 GPM), filtration, and control valves, this system significantly reduces the complexity of hydraulic plumbing. This consolidation translates directly into fewer potential leak points, a cleaner vehicle undercarriage, and a more robust overall setup. The all-in-one design means installers benefit from a simplified installation process, reducing labor time and associated costs. For operators, a central system implies consistent, reliable hydraulic power delivered to all implements, ensuring optimal performance across various tasks without the need to manage multiple independent hydraulic circuits. The centralized architecture also facilitates easier troubleshooting and maintenance, as all primary hydraulic components are located in a single, accessible enclosure.
Advanced Functional Capabilities: Powering Diverse Applications
This system is engineered to support six distinct hydraulic functions, catering to the multifaceted demands of modern work vehicles. The integrated design ensures seamless operation of:
- Plow Lift and Angle: The system provides 3-way plow lift and 4-way plow angle functionality, driven by an 11 GPM flow rate dedicated to plow operations. It incorporates two port reliefs set at 1800 PSI for the angle function, safeguarding the plow cylinders from excessive pressure and mechanical shock during operation. A critical feature for plow operators is the detent in the down position on the plow switch, which enables a "float" mode. This allows the plow to follow the contour of the road surface naturally, optimizing snow removal efficiency and reducing wear on the plow blade and vehicle.
- Hoist Operation: Designed for Power Up/Power Down dump hoist applications, this system features a 4-way double-acting (DA) dump hoist control with a down port relief set at 500 PSI. This relief ensures controlled descent and protects the hoist cylinder during lowering, preventing sudden drops and extending equipment life. The inclusion of "power beyond" capability allows for the efficient routing of hydraulic power to additional implements or future system expansions without requiring a separate pump, further enhancing the system's versatility.
- Spreader Auger/Conveyor: Essential for precise material delivery, the system offers proportional control for the auger or conveyor mechanism. This allows operators to finely adjust the flow rate of spreading material, from salt to sand, based on current conditions and application requirements. The dedicated Auger/Chain Port is a 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) connection, ensuring secure and leak-free hydraulic lines.
- Spreader Spinner: Complementing the auger, the proportional spinner control allows for variable spread patterns and distances. The 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) Spinner Port ensures optimal flow for adjusting the spread width, enabling operators to achieve precise coverage, which is crucial for efficient material usage and environmental considerations.
- Pre-Wet System: For enhanced effectiveness in de-icing and dust control, the system includes integrated controls for a pre-wet system. This function typically applies a liquid brine solution to dry spreading materials before they are dispersed, improving adhesion to surfaces and accelerating chemical reaction, especially in colder temperatures. The pre-wet function is seamlessly managed by the proportional spreader controls when the GPS option is enabled.
Advanced Control Interface: Electric On/Off with In-Cab Ergonomics
The core of this system's user-friendliness lies in its electric on/off controls. By utilizing electric signals to actuate hydraulic valves, the need to route noisy and heat-generating hydraulic lines directly into the vehicle cab is eliminated. This significantly improves cab comfort, reducing both ambient noise and heat, thereby enhancing operator concentration and reducing fatigue during long shifts. The in-cab control unit, featuring an LED display and indexed dials, provides intuitive and precise command over all hydraulic functions. The HVC06 spreader controller facilitates proportional spreader and auger speed control, allowing for real-time adjustments to material output. This electronic over hydraulic control strategy not only simplifies the installation process by minimizing complex plumbing within the cab but also offers superior responsiveness and accuracy compared to traditional mechanical or pilot-operated hydraulic controls. The comprehensive control package, including specific controls for hoist and plow, is integrated, ensuring a complete operational setup from the moment of installation.
Precision Material Application with Integrated GPS-Based Ground Speed Control
A standout feature of this central hydraulic system is the included GPS-based ground speed control. This intelligent functionality revolutionizes material spreading operations by ensuring a consistent and optimal application rate regardless of the vehicle's speed. As the truck accelerates or decelerates, the GPS system provides real-time speed data to the HVC06 controller, which then automatically adjusts the hydraulic flow rate to the spreader's auger/conveyor and spinner mechanisms.
The benefits of this ground speed control are profound:
- Material Optimization: Prevents over-application at slower speeds and under-application at higher speeds, leading to substantial savings in spreading materials such as salt, sand, or fertilizer.
- Environmental Stewardship: Reduced material usage minimizes environmental impact, especially in sensitive areas, by preventing excess runoff and pollutant dispersal.
- Consistent Coverage: Ensures a uniform layer of material application, critical for effective de-icing, dust suppression, or seeding, thereby improving operational outcomes and safety.
- Reduced Operator Fatigue: Eliminates the need for constant manual adjustments by the operator, allowing them to focus on driving and safety, particularly in challenging conditions.
- Enhanced Safety: Consistent application rates contribute to safer road conditions during winter maintenance, reducing accident risks.
This technology transforms the spreader into a highly efficient and environmentally conscious tool, offering a rapid return on investment through material cost reductions and improved operational efficacy.
Robust Reservoir and Fluid Management System
The integrity and longevity of any hydraulic system depend heavily on its reservoir and fluid management components. This 15-gallon compact reservoir assembly is meticulously constructed from 304 stainless steel, renowned for its exceptional resistance to corrosion, rust, and the abrasive effects of road grime, salt, and harsh weather conditions. This material choice ensures maximum durability and extended service life, even in the most demanding environments. The compact design facilitates flexible mounting options, typically in a side-mount configuration, optimizing vehicle space.
Integral to the reservoir are several critical components that safeguard the hydraulic fluid's health and system performance:
- In-Tank Return Filter Assembly: A 10-micron return line filter, rated for a flow of 26 GPM, is incorporated to capture contaminants from the hydraulic fluid as it returns to the reservoir. This fine filtration is crucial for preventing particulate matter from recirculating through the system, which can cause premature wear to pumps, valves, and cylinders.
- Suction Filter: Positioned at the suction port, a 150-micron suction filter, with a flow rating of 49 GPM, protects the hydraulic pump from larger debris entering the system. This primary defense mechanism ensures the pump receives clean fluid, crucial for its operational efficiency and lifespan.
- Filler-Strainer Breather Cap Assembly: This multi-functional component prevents contaminants from entering the reservoir during fluid top-offs and allows the reservoir to "breathe" as fluid levels fluctuate due to thermal expansion or cylinder displacement. The integrated strainer acts as an additional barrier against particulates.
- Shielded Sight Temperature Gauge: Provides a clear, real-time visual indication of the hydraulic fluid level and temperature. Monitoring these parameters is vital for identifying potential issues such as low fluid levels (which can lead to pump cavitation) or excessively high temperatures (which can degrade fluid properties and damage seals).
- Magnetic Drain Plug: Located at the base of the reservoir, this magnetic plug attracts and holds ferrous metallic particles that may be present in the hydraulic fluid. This simple yet effective feature aids in preventing abrasive wear throughout the system and allows for easy removal of these contaminants during fluid changes.
Furthermore, the valve enclosure with its latching stainless steel lid offers superior protection for the sensitive spreader, hoist, and plow valves against physical damage, moisture, and environmental elements, ensuring their reliable operation.
Hydraulic System Specifications and Performance Parameters
The technical specifications of this central hydraulic system underscore its robust design and high-performance capabilities:
- Maximum Flow Rate: A robust 28 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) maximum flow ensures ample hydraulic power for simultaneous or demanding operations, allowing implements to react quickly and efficiently.
- Maximum Pressure: Capable of operating up to 3000 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch), providing the force necessary for heavy-duty lifting and material handling.
- Main Relief Setting: The system's main relief valve is set at 2500 PSI. This critical safety feature prevents over-pressurization of the hydraulic circuit, protecting components from damage and ensuring safe operation.
- Port Relief Settings: Specific relief settings for individual functions further enhance safety and system longevity. The plow angle ports feature a relief setting of 1800 PSI, while the hoist port relief is set at 500 PSI, tailored to the operational requirements of each implement.
- Port Configuration: The system utilizes industry-standard SAE ORB (O-Ring Boss) connections for critical work ports, including 1/2 SAE ORB (-8) for Auger/Chain, Spinner, and general Work Ports, and a 3/4 SAE ORB (-12) for the Inlet Port. ORB fittings provide superior leak resistance due to their O-ring seal. The Suction Port and Outlet Port are specified as 2 NPT (National Pipe Taper) threads, common for larger volume flow connections. This meticulous port sizing and standardization ensure compatibility and ease of connection with a wide array of hydraulic hoses and components.
Installation, Maintenance, and Longevity
The design philosophy behind the Buyers Products Central Hydraulic System emphasizes ease of installation and simplified maintenance. By mounting all directional valves and spreader controls directly on the tank, the need for complex, sprawling hydraulic plumbing is drastically reduced. This "install and plumb" approach significantly cuts down on installation time and potential for errors. For routine service, the integrated components within the reservoir and the easily accessible valve enclosure ensure that inspections, filter changes, and fluid level checks can be performed efficiently.
For applications demanding critical load holding – such as those involving elevated platforms, heavy lifting, or scenarios where hydraulic drift could compromise safety – the incorporation of Pilot Operated (P.O.) checks or counterbalance valves is strongly recommended. These specialized valves are designed to prevent unintended movement of hydraulic cylinders, providing an additional layer of safety and control by locking the load in place when hydraulic pressure is not actively applied. Customers requiring such enhanced safety features are encouraged to consult with Customer Service for appropriate options and configurations.
Applications and Target Market
This 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System is ideally suited for light to medium duty vocational trucks in a variety of sectors:
- Municipal Operations: Perfect for snow and ice removal fleets, road maintenance vehicles, and municipal service trucks that require reliable power for plows, spreaders, and utility hoists.
- Commercial Landscaping and Groundskeeping: Can power material spreaders for fertilizer or seed, and hoists for dump beds or small cranes.
- Construction Support: Suitable for vehicles that need to operate small hoists, auxiliary tools, or dump functions on job sites.
- Agricultural Utility: Applicable for light agricultural utility vehicles needing hydraulic power for various implements.
Its compact footprint, robust construction, and comprehensive feature set make it a versatile and indispensable asset for organizations seeking to maximize the utility and efficiency of their fleet vehicles.
Conclusion
The Buyers Products 15 Gallon Central Hydraulic System with 6 Functions, Electric On/Off control, a Compact Reservoir, and integrated GPS represents a state-of-the-art solution for sophisticated mobile hydraulic power. From its rugged 304 stainless steel reservoir and advanced multi-stage filtration to its intuitive electric controls and precision GPS-based ground speed control, every aspect of this system is engineered for superior performance, durability, and ease of use. It not only simplifies the installation and operation of critical truck-mounted implements but also drives significant operational efficiencies through optimized material usage and reduced maintenance. This system is not merely a collection of hydraulic components; it is an integrated ecosystem designed to empower operators and enhance the productivity and safety of light to medium duty vocational vehicles in the most demanding working conditions. Please contact Customer Service for further options and to discuss how this advanced central hydraulic system can be tailored to meet your specific operational needs.
