Ever struggled with keeping your tractor on track during a 12-hour planting day? Or wasted hours fixing crooked rows that threw off your entire harvest? You're not alone. In today's farming world, where every minute and every seed counts, precision steering isn't just helpful—it’s your secret weapon.

The FJD AH2 Hydraulic Autosteering Kit acts like a co-pilot for your tractor, turning shaky steering into smooth, stable accuracy. But here's the kicker: this kit isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Its magic lies in four specialized valves, each designed to tackle different tractors and tasks. Pick the right one, and you'll save time, fuel, and money. Pick wrong? Well, let's just say you don't want to find out.

In this blog, we'll break down these four valves in plain language—no confusing jargon. By the end, you'll know exactly which valve fits your tractor like a glove, so you can say goodbye to crooked rows and hello to fields that look like they were drawn with a ruler.

 

30L Compatible Valve: The Universal Problem-Solver

The 30L Compatible Valve is the Swiss Army knife of hydraulic valves, designed to adapt seamlessly to nearly any tractor steering system. Its universal compatibility makes it a go-to choice for operators who work with diverse machinery or want a future-proof solution.

 

This valve works with four types of steering systems:
  • Open center reactive tractors: common in older models where hydraulic pressure reacts to steering input).
  • Open center non-reactive tractors: found in systems where pressure remains constant regardless of steering movement.
  • Closed center tractors with dynamic load-sensing (LS): typical in modern, high-efficiency systems that adjust flow based on demand.
  • Closed center tractors with static LS: suited for systems with fixed flow rates.
Key Features:
  • Compact design: Measuring just 310x223x70 mm and weighing only 9.5 kg, this valve is lightweight and space-efficient, making it easy to integrate into tight engine compartments.
  • Streamlined installation: All hydraulic ports are located on one side, reducing hose clutter and simplifying connections.
  • Enhanced safety: An integrated on-off valve allows operators to manually disable steering during maintenance, while physical isolation between the orbitrol (manual steering unit) and cylinder prevents accidental movement.
Benefits:
  • Reduced retrofitting time: The universal design eliminates the need for custom modifications, allowing operators to install the valve quickly and get back to work.
  • Versatility: Whether you're upgrading an older tractor or integrating the kit into a newer model, this valve ensures consistent performance across the board.


30L Open Center Valve: Affordable Efficiency

If you're working with open center steering systems, the 30L Open Center Valve offers a budget-friendly solution without compromising on quality. This valve is optimized for tractors with open-center hydraulics, where fluid flows continuously through the system until a steering command redirects it. It’s ideal for standard tractors with moderate horsepower (under 250 hp) and sufficient hydraulic flow rates (up to 30 liters per minute).


Benefits:
  • Cost-effective: By focusing solely on open center systems, FJD reduces manufacturing complexity, passing the savings on to you.
  • Reliable performance: Despite its competitive price, the valve delivers precise yet stable steering control for everyday tasks like planting, spraying, or hauling.

Ideal For:

  • Mid-sized farms with mixed fleets of older and newer open center tractors.
  • Operators seeking a straightforward, no-frills upgrade to improve steering accuracy.

60L Open Center Valve: Powerhouse Performance

When it comes to high-horsepower tractors (250+ hp) and demanding field conditions, the 60L Open Center Valve rises to the challenge. This valve is built for open center systems requiring higher flow rates (up to 60 liters per minute), ensuring responsive steering even under heavy loads.


Benefits:
  • Robust construction: Engineered to withstand the rigors of large-scale farming, this valve maintains precision during tasks like deep tillage or pulling heavy implements.
  • Reduced operator fatigue: Smooth, reliable steering minimizes the need for constant manual adjustments, even during long shifts.
Ideal For:
  • Large-acreage row crop farms.
  • Tractors used for heavy-duty applications, such as sugarcane harvesting or vineyard work.


60L Closed Center Valve: Precision Meets Power

Closed center systems use variable displacement pumps to provide hydraulic power on demand, making them common in modern, fuel-efficient tractors. For large high-horsepower tractors with closed center hydraulic systems, the 60L Closed Center Valve delivers unmatched efficiency and stability. This valve is tailored to handle high flow rates (60 liters per minute) while maintaining precise control.


Benefits:
  • Energy efficiency: By aligning with the on-demand nature of closed-center systems, the valve reduces unnecessary hydraulic fluid consumption.
  • Durability: Built to endure extreme conditions, it ensures reliable performance during intensive operations like grain cart hauling or earthmoving.
Ideal For:
  • High-tech farming operations using advanced machinery.
  • Tractors operating in variable terrain, where consistent steering control is critical.


Choosing the Right Valve for Your Operation

Your tractor’s valve isn't just a part; it's the secret sauce for saving time and increasing efficiency. Here are three key factors you need to consider carefully when selecting the optimal valve for your tractors:
  • Steering system type: Identify whether your tractor uses an open center, closed center, or load-sensing system.
  • Horsepower: Match the valve's flow capacity (30L vs. 60L) to your tractor's size and workload.
  • Budget: Weigh the upfront cost against long-term benefits like reduced downtime and improved safety.
For example, a small sugar beet farm with a 150-hp open center tractor might opt for the 30L Open Center Valve to save costs. In contrast, a large corn operation running 300-hp closed-center tractors would prioritize the 60L Closed Center Valve for peak performance.


Your Tractors Deserve a Smart Valve

The FJD AH2 Hydraulic Autosteering Kit offers four valves to change how your tractors work. Each valve option addresses specific challenges, from retrofitting older tractors to optimizing high-horsepower giants. By investing in the right valve, you'll enjoy precise steering, time savings, and enhanced safety.
 

Ready to take the next step? Consult with your local FJD dealer to determine which valve aligns with your machinery and operational goals. Or just contact us for a quick free quote here, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible: Get a FREE Quote.




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