Many front loaders come with only two hydraulic functions: lift and tilt. But accessories like bale grabs, pallet forks with side shift, or silage grabs often need a third function.
The Challenge
Adding a third hydraulic function requires hydraulic lines and a diverter valve — no way around that. But the control side has traditionally also required:
- Installing separate switches or an extra joystick in the cab
- Dedicated relay and wiring
- Drilling holes in cab panels
On newer tractors this is especially difficult because the armrest is CAN bus controlled — there are no analog outputs to tap into.
The Solution: Diverter Valve
A solenoid-operated diverter valve lets you switch one hydraulic circuit between two different functions. ISOBUS Block controls the diverter solenoid — you switch it from any AUX-N button or directly from the tractor screen.
How it works:
- Diverter OFF: Hydraulic oil goes to Function A (e.g., grab open/close)
- Diverter ON: Hydraulic oil goes to Function B (e.g., side shift)
Press a button on the Virtual Terminal to switch between functions. Your existing joystick controls whichever function is currently selected.
Configuration Example
| Channel | Controls | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| CH 1 | Diverter valve solenoid | Toggle |
| CH 2 | Work light | Toggle |
| CH 3-8 | Available for more functions | - |
Toggle mode is ideal for diverter valves:
- Press once to switch to Function B
- Press again to switch back to Function A
- Position stays until you change it
Grouped Channels
Want the work light to turn on automatically when you switch to the third function? Assign both channels to the same button.
Example grouping:
| Button | Switches | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Button 1 | CH 1 + CH 2 | Diverter switches AND work light turns on |
One button press switches both the diverter valve and the work light. Press again to turn both off.
Multiple Diverter Valves
Need a fourth or fifth function? Add more diverter valves on different hydraulic circuits and switch each from its own button.
| Button | Switches | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Button 1 | CH 1 | First diverter (3rd function) |
| Button 2 | CH 2 | Second diverter (4th function) |
| Button 3 | CH 3 | Work lights |
Each diverter switches its hydraulic circuit between two functions. With multiple diverters, you can access many functions using your existing auxiliary hydraulics.
Benefits
- No switches in the cab — control from AUX-N buttons or the screen
- AUX-N button assignment to any button you choose
- Grouped outputs to combine functions
- Toggle mode keeps your selection until you press again
What You'll Need
- ISOBUS Block Cabin Kit — module plus a 1.8 m pre-made harness that plugs straight into the in-cab ISOBUS connector. No crimping.
- Solenoid-operated diverter valve (12V or 24V)
- Hydraulic fittings for your setup
- Wiring from the module's relay terminals to the diverter solenoid
If you'd rather supply your own cable, the bare ISOBUS Block module on its own ships at a lower price point and fits the same use case.
Compatibility
Works with any tractor that has:
- ISOBUS Virtual Terminal
- At least one auxiliary hydraulic circuit
- Optional: AUX-N compatible joystick for button mapping
Learn More
- Documentation for wiring diagrams and technical specifications
- FAQ for common questions about ISOBUS Block
- Multi-Solenoid Implement Control for controlling multiple outputs
- Modernizing Older Implements for retrofit installations
Ready to add a third function? Order the ISOBUS Block Cabin Kit or browse all tiers.