Backhoes and excavators equipped with hydraulic thumbs often face a common operational challenge: switching between the thumb and other hydraulic attachments without disrupting the system or wasting time on manual hose quick-connect and disconnect procedures.
Hydraulic Diverter Valve: Operate a Backhoe Thumb and Other Attachments with Ease
Installing a hydraulic diverter valve kit on a backhoe can dramatically improve operational efficiency, especially when switching between a thumb and auxiliary attachments. Auxiliary hydraulic kits eliminate the need to undo threaded couplers every time you change attachments, offering a fast, leak-free alternative.
With a diverter valve installed, operators can easily route hydraulic flow to either the thumb or another tool with the turn of a lever. It’s a simple upgrade that delivers big results in the field. Stucchi’s Diverter Valve Kit allows operators to toggle between circuits, thumb or attachment, without the need to disconnect and change over attachments.
This hydraulic solution is designed for equipment where the thumb remains semi-permanently installed, offering a clean, efficient way to control auxiliary functions without leaks, downtime, or extra labor.
The diverter valve kit allows the operator to switch between the thumb and attachment circuits without wasting time on quick connect and disconnect, and leaking fluid in the process. This two-way hydraulic circuit backhoe solution saves time and headaches with leak-free operation.
Customizing and Mounting Your Hydraulic Diverter Valve Kit for a Backhoe
Stucchi’s hydraulic diverter valve kits for backhoes are not one-size-fits-all solutions; they’re engineered to match the specific hydraulic configuration of your machine. To ensure proper fit and function, Stucchi offers several customization options based on:
- Diverter nominal size
- Machine inlet and thumb port size and thread type
- Quick coupler series and size
The best way to customize a diverter valve kit for your backhoe is by contacting a Stucchi hydraulic specialist to gather the exact technical details and specifications needed to build a kit that aligns with your equipment’s setup.
When it comes to installation, mounting preferences vary widely across operators and machine models. That’s why Stucchi includes two factory-supplied mounting options with each diverter kit:
- Weld-on bracket – Ideal for permanent, high-strength installations directly onto the boom or stick.
- Flanged bracket with bolt holes – A more flexible solution for machines where users prefer to drill a clearance hole or tap mounting holes into the stick.
For backhoe applications, Stucchi recommends mounting the diverter valve on top of the stick, just above the bucket cylinder. This position provides optimal accessibility and protection while maintaining clean hydraulic routing to both the thumb and the auxiliary attachment ports.
How to Install Hydraulic Hoses on a Diverter Valve Kit for Backhoes
Once the Stucchi hydraulic diverter valve kit is securely mounted, whether using the weld-on bracket or the flanged bolt-on option, the next step is routing and installing the hydraulic lines.
Start by connecting the inlet hoses from the machine to the center (branch) port of the diverter valve. This port acts as the primary flow entry point from the backhoe’s main hydraulic circuit.
Next, connect the thumb cylinder hoses to one of the run ports on the diverter valve. This allows full hydraulic control of the thumb attachment when the diverter is switched to that port.
The opposite run port will already have the quick couplers installed from the factory. These couplers are positioned for seamless connection to additional attachments and are ready for use.
With this setup, operators can easily switch between operating the hydraulic thumb and powering an auxiliary attachment using a simple turn of the diverter handle, saving time and eliminating messy disconnects or line swaps in the field.
How to Operate the Diverter Valve: Switching Between Thumb and Attachment
To use the hydraulic thumb, turn the diverter valve so the arrows point from the inlet to the thumb port. This directs hydraulic flow to the thumb cylinder, allowing full control of thumb operation without interference from other attachments.
To use an attachment, first connect the mechanical joint to the stick and the quick couplings to the diverter valve. Next, turn the diverter valve so the arrows point in from the inlet and out to the quick couplings. The attachment is now ready to use as normal, powered by the same auxiliary hydraulic circuit, with no need to disconnect lines or compromise on control.
How to Remove an Attachment Using the Diverter Valve
First, to remove the attachment, turn the diverter valve so the arrows point toward the thumb cylinder. Then disconnect the quick couplings and detach the mechanical joint from the stick. This ensures the hydraulic circuit is safely redirected back to the thumb before disconnection, minimizing pressure buildup and potential spillage.
Benefits of Using a Stucchi Hydraulic Diverter Valve Kit for Backhoes
Stucchi’s hydraulic diverter valve kits offer several key benefits for backhoe operation:
- Increased productivity by reducing the time needed to switch between attachments, minimizing equipment downtime.
- Extended machine life with less contamination and cleaner, more efficient hydraulic connections.
- Lower environmental impact and clean-up costs thanks to leak-free, no-spill connections.
- Improved operator safety with leak-free solutions that allow for connection under pressure.
Stucchi offers custom Diverter Valve Kits and Auxiliary Hydraulic Solutions designed to match your equipment specifications and jobsite requirements. Contact your Stucchi technical representative for assistance in customizing a diverter valve kit for your backhoe.
