How Many Rear Remotes Does a Tractor Need?

A standard agricultural tractor supports various implements, which boosts its functionality. The implements may be a backhoe, a mower, or a log splitter. You can have as many attachments as you want for your tractor to accomplish several tasks. However, you’ll need a remote to operate such attachments.

So, how many rear remotes does a tractor need? A tractor needs at least one set of remotes with two ports to operate attachments. The actual number of remotes will depend on the implements you plan to attach to your tractor. Generally, compact tractors have one remote to minimize costs.

Here’s an in-depth look at tractor remotes, how they work, and how many you’ll need.

What Are Remotes on a Tractor?

Rear remotes are connection points where you connect attachments to your tractor’s hydraulic unit. Valves control the remotes and affect the movement of the hydraulic fluid. The loader valve is the main valve and regulates fluid flow to the rear remote valve. 

Pulling the hydraulic lever may open or close the valves, and the implements will perform a task accordingly. 

So, do I need remote hydraulics for my tractor? The best answer to this question is that it depends on the implements on your tractor. You will need a remote if the implement has a cylinder that requires lifting or lowering to work.

You may get this component already assembled on the tractor. Some models, especially compact tractors, may lack the remotes. It calls for you to get a rear remote kit for tractor. While not all tractors have rear remotes, having a set improves their overall practicability.

How Many Rear Remotes Does a Tractor Need?

Your tractor needs at least one set of remotes to run the attachments. A set of rear remotes consists of two ports. If you see four ports, it means you have two rear remotes. One port is the inlet, while the other is the outlet. 

You can add rear remotes to improve your tractor’s implement support, especially for those with more than two functions. A two-port unit won’t support the third function in such a scenario. 

Compact tractors have one remote due to the associated expenses of having more. But you can still add more affordable aftermarket remotes.

Valve Types and Their Functions

As mentioned earlier, a set of valves control the hydraulic remotes. Let us look at the valves and how they work.

Spring Center Valves

Spring center valves are the simplest valves used on rear remotes. This valve works with a standard lever, requiring forward or backward adjustment to pop it into the center. The mechanism is the same when the lever is free.

Spring center valves are cheap, thanks to their simple design. However, they have several limitations, such as missing the floating and hold-open functions. It means you cannot float over the wheels or hold the channels open for constant flow. 

Detent Valve

There are several types of detent valves. The regular or float detent valve requires forward pushing, popping over a detent ball. The valve will remain in the forward or float position. The fluid will now move from one side to another, with no influence of pressure. 

This type of valve is suitable for running implements like a log splitter or transporting wheels. Pick the dent valve for tools that don’t require the tractor’s input.

The self-canceling valve is more flexible, allowing you to push over the detent. The valve reaches the fluid’s dead-end point and returns to neutral mode. This type of valve adds another level of functionality to your implements.

Hydraulic Fluid Pumping Systems

The hydraulic mechanism can either be open-centered or closed-centered. For the former, a gear lever controls the fluid flow, with the oil picking the less-resistant pathway.

In the case of multiple functions, the hydraulic fluid picks the route that is easiest to travel. It is a standard hydraulic mechanism in tractors rated below 150 HP.

On the other hand, closed-centered systems have variable displacements. You can switch the demand, depending on your implement’s needs. 

Adding an Extra Set Of Hydraulic Remotes to Your Tractor

Still, on how many rear remotes, you can add an extra set to your tractor to make it more flexible. It is possible to add rear remotes to a tractor, though it depends on the model. You need to get a hydraulic remote adapter containing as many ports as you need. The adapter works similarly to an electronic adapter. It creates several connections from one connection point.

When adding an extra set of rear remotes to your tractor, there are things you should have in order for a smooth process. 

First, you should move the lever front and back to release any built-up pressure in the ports. You may notice fluid coming out of the ports when you move the lever. Clear the fluid using a clean rug and lubricate the couplers. WD-40 is an excellent lubricant for couplers.

Fit the adapter connection into the tractor ports. If possible, use a wrench to tighten the connection. Tag the hoses to be sure of the tightness. You now have extra remotes for various implements.

Beware of a malfunctioning rear remote. Your tractor remotes may malfunction due to insufficient or contaminated hydraulic fluid or faulty hydraulic assembly. Watch for failure or difficulty launching the implements, leaking fluid, or unusual noises when operating the attachments. Let a professional handle the issue to prevent its recurrence.

Final Thoughts

How many rear remotes does my tractor need? The answer depends on the implements you have and how they work. Typically, a utility tractor should have at least one rear remote for simple tools like log splitting.

Other complex implements, such as hay balers, need more rear remotes to support their multiple operating functions. Your tractor can have up to four remotes. An adaptor is handy for adding additional ports for tractors with few ports. 

When picking your tractor’s hydraulics, you must check for features like the valve unit and available ports. Opt for versatility by getting a tractor with more rear remotes and detent valves.