Ford 4500 Backhoe Hydraulic Valve Block Replacement

NCMichael

Member
I have a Ford 4500 backhoe that I would like to switch out the big monoblock valve block in the rear. The block has a bent spool and I am not a big fan of the original four stick layout. For some reason they appear to favor left hand movements and I am right handed.

My problem is I am not a hydraulics expert and am having trouble finding a suitable replacement block. Please note that I am not interested in the two stick conversion using the existing valve block shown in previous threads. That is a cool conversion that I don't think I am capable of building and it would not fix my problem since I have a bad valve spool.

I have seen many references to Surplus Center and have researched their products and contacted them directly. They do not appear to have a 6 spool valve block capable of handling the ~27GPM flow that I believe the 4500 pump is rated. I did find a 3 spool 25GPM joy stick (p/n 9-8217) that I am thinking about doubling up and using the grapple controls for the outriggers.

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My questions are as follows:

1. Do you think that using those two 3 spools valve blocks would work for the backhoe controls?

2. Has anyone performed a similar valve replacement that can provide model numbers, and hopefully pictures, of what they used? The Surplus Center website specifically states they don't carry any valve banks big enough for a Ford 753 backhoe on a 545a which matches what I am not finding for my 4500.

3. Does anyone have a recommendation of another supplier with a suitable valve spool replacement?

Since I am replacing the valves, I would prefer to go ahead and upgrade to two stick controls but I would also consider staying with a four stick arrangement - as long as I can change the stick control order. I originally considered just reversing the original valve block (CLAS to SALC?) installation but was unable to due to the fixed positions of the relief valves on that dang monoblock.

Any information is greatly appreciated.
 
Without digging deep into your questions, I will simply say this: I would not discount the possibility of using a 25 GPM valve in a system
that is rated at 27. Keep in mind that this 27 GPM rating is likely at rated speed, which most people don't typically operate at anyway. Even
if you did, the less than 10% overage is not going to be a significant issue in my mind.
 

Did you ever make this swap and if so, how did it work out? If not, what did you finally do to resolve your issues?

I have an early 70"s 4500 with a 750 model backhoe. The spools are leaking like crazy and I have to do something to get this machine running again. I'm looking for solutions. All help is appreciated! :D
 
I never finished this project. Sadly, my backhoe is still in the same state of disrepair as it was a few years back due to other more pressing projects and other life events. I am still hopeful to get it running again someday.

I feel that using that valve spool should work. My main concern was reworking the tower some since the hoses attach horizontally on this valve block vs. vertically out the bottom on the original valve. Also, the hose connections on this one appear to be smaller than on the original. I am not sure if that would adversely affect operation any.

I am not the most mechanically inclined. When I originally posted, I was hoping to see some actual examples of what others have done as well so that I might copy a good design instead of floundering on a new one.

Good luck on getting yours running. Please post back on what solution you come up with.
 
(quoted from post at 05:12:37 05/08/20)
Good luck on getting yours running. Please post back on what solution you come up with.

Thanks NCMichael. Will do. If you want to email me, I can make sure I keep you updated. By the way, I'm in Georgia in case you are in a neighbouring state.
 
Many hoe valves have relief valves for each circuit, as well as the system main relief valve, since the functions work against each other at times as leverage changes. Those times can cause pressure spikes the circuit relief valves protect components from. Also depending on the existing hoe valve and loader valve, and how they are plumbed, you may need power beyond capabilities in one or both of the new valves. Also confirm open or closed system. Somethings to check out.
 
(quoted from post at 19:35:23 05/08/20)
(quoted from post at 05:12:37 05/08/20)
Good luck on getting yours running. Please post back on what solution you come up with.

Thanks NCMichael. Will do. If you want to email me, I can make sure I keep you updated. By the way, I'm in Georgia in case you are in a neighbouring state.

I am not too far away. I live in North Carolina.
 

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