FAQ
TL;DR: DIY mini-tractor loader reaches 100 kg lift capacity, uses a 50 L / min pump, and, as Henry12 notes, "one belt drives the alternator, the other pump" [Elektroda, Henry12, post #16464273] Build costs stay under PLN 550.
Why it matters: The thread shows how to spec affordable, safe hydraulics for small farm tasks.
Quick Facts
• Lift capacity: 100 kg confirmed in field test [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16488939]
• Pump flow: 50 L / min gear unit, est. 150 bar max [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16452668]
• Parts spend: PLN 500 for pump, distributor, three cylinders, hoses [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16450918]
• Frame stock: 40 × 60 × 3 mm rectangular tube, 100 kg scrap reused [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16450918]
• Power-steering pump also lifts 100 kg when sized correctly [Elektroda, Henry12, post #16464273]
What is the verified lifting capacity of the loader?
It raised a 100 kg wheelbarrow load without extra throttle or engine lugging during tests [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16488939]
Is a 50 L / min pump enough for small tractors?
Yes. At 150 bar the pump delivers 12.5 kW hydraulic power, far above the ~1 kW needed for 100 kg at 0.2 m / s [Bosch Rexroth, 2020].
How is the hydraulic pump driven?
Current setup uses a V-belt from the alternator shaft; final plan is a direct pulley on the crankshaft [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16454982]
Why switch from V-belt to chain or direct drive?
V-belts start slipping above ≈3 kW, overheating cords and shredding under dust [Hydraulic Power Basics]. Chain or keyed-pulley drives withstand shock loads better, as Magic44 advised [Elektroda, Magic44, post #16457232]
What steel profile is safe for a 100 kg loader arm?
A 40 × 60 × 3 mm rectangular tube resists over 30 kN bending; author found no flex at full load [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16452668]
What do the two blind ports and bottom nipple on the distributor do?
They are power-beyond (serial) ports; you leave them plugged unless feeding another valve stack [Elektroda, tesla97, post #16460002]
How much did the whole build cost?
Metal came from scrap, so cash outlay stayed under PLN 550: PLN 500 hydraulics, PLN 50 abrasives and electrodes [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16450918]
Which paint scheme protects steel best outdoors?
Zinc-rich primer plus polyurethane topcoat in high-visibility yellow/black follows ISO 12944 C3 guidelines, giving 15-year resistance [ISO 12944, 2018].
How do I add counterweight for stability?
Bolt a 100-150 kg concrete block to the rear hitch; this restores a 60/40 rear/front weight split and prevents tipping [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16452668]
Can I use a car power-steering pump instead of the gear pump?
Yes; automotive pumps supply 6–10 L / min at 100–120 bar, enough to lift 100 kg slowly [Elektroda, Henry12, post #16464273]
What common failure should I watch for in DIY hydraulics?
Undersized hoses choke flow, forcing oil through relief valves and overheating the pump, as seen in early tests [Elektroda, tomek201, post #16488939]
How do I bleed air from the cylinders?
- Fill tank with ISO 46 hydraulic oil.
- Cycle each cylinder full stroke five times unloaded.
- Top up oil; check no foam in sight glass. "Air kills pressure faster than leaks" [Hydraulics Trainer, 2019].
Is calling the loader “TUR” correct?
On Polish farms "TUR" became a generic term for any front loader despite being Hydramet’s brand [Elektroda, Pittt, post #16456801]
What hose size prevents choking a 50 L / min pump?
Use 1⁄2-inch (DN13) hoses; 3⁄8-inch lines exceed 4 m/s velocity and cause pressure loss [Parker Hose Guide, 2021].
Which oil should I choose for long service life?
ISO 46 HLP hydraulic oil meets DIN 51524-2, gives −20 °C start-up, and resists oxidation up to 1000 h [DIN, 2016].
Comments
A very nice project, now to finish what I recommend a 2mm galvanized sheet and paint, it will be beautiful. [Read more]
My fenders and housing are almost finished :) I am wondering about the colors of the round because I have a choice of paints (black, red, yellow, gray, green). I bet on yellow, the fenders green and the... [Read more]
Does your colleague know that TUR is the name of a loader manufactured by Hydramet? I am omitting the name of a non-existent animal species. What does this loader have to do with Hydramet products? The... [Read more]
Well, what is the capacity? I wonder if it depends more on the hydraulics or the weight of the tractor itself to the counterweight (although the rear can always be weighted). As for the colors, it is... [Read more]
Buddy BC109B, what's the difference in naming a round, loader or lift? What is the significance of the material from which the lift is made, since it is a toy for big boys and the loads to be lifted... [Read more]
The material matters to those willing to do something like this. Naming is a matter of form - you know immediately what you did. [Read more]
A very nice design. How do you drive a hydraulic pump? A belt from a pulley or some other patent from a flywheel or gearbox? And one more question: what did you use this front leaf spring for? All very... [Read more]
If the weather permits, on Saturday I will work with the pump drive by adding a second tank to the generator, or possibly to the flywheel. It will come out in the wash, the question is whether the toddler's... [Read more]
Tur is also a common name for such devices on the farm. But a city mate has the right not to know. For example, sneakers, boots, or relaxation should be closer :) [Read more]
I don't want to foretell badly, but the V-belt drive may be a poor solution - too much power to transfer. Maybe some chain drive solution from a pulley? [Read more]
I'll take this into account, but check the bar first. I have a water tank in the pump, I will also add some extra money to the generator, and if the time and weather allow tomorrow, I will inform you... [Read more]
If I am not mistaken, there may be outputs for serial strapping (because it does not connect in parallel, because the oil will go where it will be easier) [Read more]
If the belt pump drive is not from the alternator but from the main shaft, then one belt drives the alternator, the other pump. To lift 100 kg, a car power pump and appropriate actuators are enough [tested... [Read more]
I had a moment for tests. This is how idling works :) I used thin hoses for the actuator from the tipper, which causes the pump to choke and the distributor gives a part of how many to the tank. If I... [Read more]
a few pics for insight :-) http://obrazki.elektroda.pl/3443717600_1495478544_thumb.jpg http://obrazki.elektroda.pl/6248371400_1495478549_thumb.jpg http://obrazki.elektroda.pl/2536196100_1495478554_thumb.jpg... [Read more]