How to Convert a Takeuchi Skid Steer to Use Stucchi’s VEP Couplers

A common problem with skid steer couplers equipped from the OEM for use in heavy-duty applications such as mulching and land clearing is that overheating is a big issue and the main source is the OEM couplers, that is where a Stucchi solution comes in.
With our kit, you can convert your machine to a one inch size quick disconnect, a heavy-duty thread to connect, flat face coupler, the VEP series, that will:

• Decrease your operating temperatures by up to 15%
• Increase productivity by increasing runtime
• Increase efficiency in time to switch attachments because the VEP series allows you to connect and disconnect with residual pressure on the line

Converting your skid loader with the VEP series provides the following benefits:

• Decrease your operating temperatures by up to 15%
• Increase productivity by increasing runtime
• Increase efficiency in time to switch attachments because the VEP series allows you to connect and disconnect with residual pressure on the line

 How to convert a Takeuchi machine to use the VEP couplers

1. Make sure there is no residual pressure on the Takeuchi machine, with the key on but the engine not running, cycle the valves to relieve any pressure on the machine side
2. Next, remove any couplers or brackets that are in the way that impede your access to the couplers. You will need significant room to unthread the couplers from the block.
3. After this, use a wrench and disassemble the OEM couplers from the block. Make sure you have a rag handy because there is a possibility the oil may spill.
4. Next, thread in by hand the VEP series couplers into the block and torque them with the wrench
5. Install anything that you removed to gain access
6. Check the machine for leaks by turning it on and inspecting the couplers just to make sure that thee are no leaks

After this, you can connect your attachment to the machine and check normal function for that. If you choose to use caps, before you install the VEP series make sure that the cap loop is between the thread and the block, that way they are on the machine while it is connected.

Some of the benefits that you should be able to measure are:

• Decrease in operating temperature by up to 15%
• Increase productivity because it will take you less time to connect and disconnect your attachments
• Increase in efficiency

Stucchi offers many solutions for mobile construction equipment like Auxiliary Hydraulic Kits and other coupler conversion kits.

For more information about our other solutions, visit our website under the Hydraulic Solutions page, under the Knowledge Base section to access:

• Our FREE Guide to Mulching and Hydraulics
• Case Study on Mulching and Land Management Solutions

Please contact us for more information about our Stucchi solutions or if you have any questions about upgrading your Takeuchi or any other brand of skid steer for higher flow with the Stucchi VEP, heavy-duty, threaded, flat face couplers.

This article was previously published at  https://www.stucchiusa.com/blog/how-to-convert-a-takeuchi-skid-steer-to-use-stucchis-vep-couplers/