For farmers and hobbyists who rely on hydraulic third arms to extend loader capabilities, choosing the right kit can boost efficiency and versatility. This article highlights five top options that fit common tractors and loaders, featuring integrated joysticks, multiple functions, and solid build quality. Each entry includes key features to help you compare performance, ease of installation, and compatibility with your equipment.
Summary of Selected Products
- Summit Hydraulics Third Function Valve Kit (Kubota L-series and LA loaders) – multi-function control with joystick and two push-button switches.
- RAParts 9N543B New Hydraulic Lift Arm (Ford Holland tractors) – dependable aftermarket lift arm replacement.
- Complete Tractor Hydraulic Lift Arm (Ford/New Holland 250C–3910 series) – broad compatibility and robust specs.
- Hydraulic Third Function Valve Kit with Joystick (Tractor/Loader, 1/2″ AG couplers) – compact monoblock design with built-in relief valve.
- Summit Hydraulics Third Function Kit (John Deere 1025R, 1023E, 1026R) – weatherproof joystick and ISO quick-disconnects.
Summit Hydraulics Third Function Valve Kit for Kubota Loaders
The Summit Hydraulics kit is designed for Kubota L2501, L3200, L3301, and L3901 tractors with compatible LA loaders. It uses the loader’s power beyond port to enable a second hydraulic function, allowing simultaneous operation of a curl and a grapple. A key feature is the integrated joystick with two momentary push-button switches, enabling open/close actions at the touch of a button. This kit simplifies upgrading a loader with an additional function while preserving control ergonomics.
Compatibility details, wiring, and setup are aimed at the common LA loader configurations used on Kubota compact tractors. The kit’s construction emphasizes reliable control of additional hydraulic outlets without overhauling the existing valve stack. It’s a practical upgrade for users who want to add a grapple or similar accessory while maintaining straightforward operation and predictable response.
RAParts 9N543B Hydraulic Lift Arm for Ford/N Holland Tractors
This lift arm is an aftermarket replacement designed for Ford Holland models in the 2N/8N/9N family. The kit includes a single lift arm (left or right) with a 1.8″ inner diameter and a 37-spline hole, matching typical Ford/early N series configurations. It provides a straightforward upgrade path when original arms are damaged or worn, offering compatibility with common hydraulic lift linkages and straightforward bolt-in installation. It’s a practical option for restoring lifting capacity and hydraulic reach on classic tractors.
Considerations include ensuring correct side fitment (LH or RH) and matching your tractor’s lift capacity and mower or implement attachments. As with many older-tractor parts, compatibility hinges on the specific model year and loader configuration, so cross-checking with your machine’s lift arm type is advised.
Complete Tractor Hydraulic Lift Arm (Ford/New Holland Series)
This Complete Tractor lift arm is a robust replacement compatible with Ford and New Holland 250C, 260C, 2810, 2910, 3000 series, among others. The arm features a mail-order-ready spec set: hydraulic lift arm, CAT II compatibility, RH/LH options, and a precise set of dimensions designed to replace OEM-numbered components. The product listing enumerates a broad compatibility range across several generations of Ford and New Holland machinery, making it a versatile option for owners who need a dependable upgrade for multiple tractor models.
Important to verify: the exact OEM replacement numbers and compatibility with your model’s linkages, ball diameter, and overall width. The listing notes a one-year warranty and assistance for replacements if needed, which helps mitigate risk when performing essential lift-arm replacements on working equipment.
Hydraulic Third Function Valve Kit with Joystick for Tractor/Loader
This valve kit comes with a 1/2″ AG coupler system and a cast-iron monoblock design that integrates a built-in relief valve. It is designed to add a third function space to a loader without complex plumbing or high-pressure demands, delivering dependable performance for standard agricultural tasks. The included joystick handle features integrated momentary switches to control the added hydraulic circuit with ease, and the kit is backed by a one-year guarantee.
Key considerations include checking flow compatibility (typical kits support around mid-range GPM) and verifying that your loader’s ports align with the 1/2″ AG couplers. For operators needing a compact, reliable third function upgrade with simple wiring and a robust relief setup, this kit offers a balanced option.
Summit Hydraulics Third Function Kit for John Deere 1025R/1023E/1026R
This third-function kit is tailored for John Deere 1025R, 1023E, and 1026R tractors. It uses 1/4” ISO 5675 quick-disconnect couplers and includes a weatherproof joystick with two integrated momentary push-button switches. The combination of robust mechanicals and weather-ready controls makes it a solid choice for Deere compact tractors, enabling simultaneous operation of loader functions and accessories like grapples or hydraulic toppers.
The kit emphasizes reliability in coupling and control, with a design intended to withstand field conditions. Operators should confirm it matches their loader’s hose ports and the tractor’s available power flows to ensure seamless installation and operation.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Loader compatibility: Verify the exact loader model and mounting arrangement for each kit, including valve wiring, power beyond availability, and loader valve compatibility.
- Flow and pressure: Match the kit’s rated flow (GPM) and relief pressure to your tractor and implements to prevent overloading pumps or hoses.
- Control ergonomics: Consider whether a joystick with momentary switches best suits your workflow, or if a simple valve actuation suffices.
- Port types and hoses: Check if 1/4″ or 1/2″ couplers meet your existing hoses, and verify hose lengths included in the kit or what you’ll need to source separately.
- Electrical and wiring: Some kits require wiring to the loader’s control circuit; verify compatibility with your tractor’s electrical system and any necessary fusing considerations.
- Installation effort: Some kits are plug-and-play, while others require significant valve stack modifications or additional parts. Plan for installation time and potential professional help if needed.
- Warranty and support: A one-year guarantee or seller support can provide peace of mind for critical loader upgrades.
- Long-term maintenance: Assess ease of access for hydraulic connections, potential leak points, and the availability of replacement parts.
- Accessory ecosystem: If planning multiple attachments (grapples, grapplers, or bale spears), prioritize kits that offer easy expansion or compatible couplers.
- Cost of ownership: While prices aren’t listed here, weigh installation complexity and replacement part availability against the performance gains.
Overall, selecting a hydraulic third function kit hinges on matching your tractor and loader configuration, the intended task load, and how you prefer to control additional hydraulic functions. The five options above provide a mix of manufacturer-supported kits and broad-application replacements to cover common needs across Kubota, Deere, Ford, and Holland loaders.