The Complete Guide to Remote Valve Controls for Hydraulic Systems

Everything You Need to Know About Mechanical Remote Valve Controls

Hydraulic systems are the muscle behind countless machines across Australia's agriculture, construction, mining, transport, manufacturing and industrial sectors. Whether you're operating a loader, crane, tipper, forestry machine or hydraulic power pack, the hydraulic valves controlling these systems need to be reliable, responsive and easy to operate.

But what happens when those hydraulic valves are mounted several metres away from the operator?

That's where Remote Valve Controls (RVCs) come in.

Mechanical Remote Valve Controls allow an operator to safely and accurately control hydraulic spool valves from a convenient location using flexible push-pull control cables. Rather than standing beside a valve bank, the operator can mount a control lever in the cab, on a control console or beside the machine and remotely actuate the valve with smooth, positive movement.

Industrial & Cable Group supplies a complete range of Multiflex Remote Valve Controls and compatible control cables designed for Australian operating conditions.

What is a Remote Valve Control?

A Remote Valve Control (RVC) is a mechanical lever assembly connected to a hydraulic valve by a flexible push-pull cable.

When the operator moves the control lever:

• the cable pushes or pulls
• the hydraulic spool moves
• hydraulic oil is directed to the required function
• the machine performs the desired movement.

Instead of running hydraulic hoses to the operator's position, only a mechanical cable is required.

This creates a safer, cleaner and often more economical installation.

How Does a Mechanical Remote Valve Control Work?

The operating principle is surprisingly simple.

Operator Lever ? Remote Valve Control ? Push-Pull Cable ? Hydraulic Valve Spool ? Hydraulic Function

When the lever moves forward or backward, the inner core of the cable transmits linear motion directly to the valve spool.

Because the cable is flexible, it can route around engines, chassis rails and other obstacles while still delivering smooth mechanical movement.

Why Use Remote Valve Controls?

Modern machinery often places hydraulic valve banks well away from the operator.

Rather than relocating expensive hydraulic components, a remote valve control provides a much simpler solution.

Benefits include:

• Improved operator safety
• Better ergonomics
• Reduced hydraulic plumbing
• Flexible installation
• Precise valve operation
• Lower maintenance costs
• Multiple controls from one location
• Easy replacement of worn cables

Typical Applications

Remote valve controls are used throughout industry.

Agriculture

• Front-end loaders
• Cane harvesters
• Seeders
• Sprayers
• Balers
• Grain handling equipment

Construction

• Excavators
• Skid steer loaders
• Mini loaders
• Concrete equipment
• Mobile plant
• Compactors

Transport

• Tipper trucks
• Hook lift systems
• Tailgate controls
• Crane trucks
• Recovery vehicles

Forestry

• Log loaders
• Wood chippers
• Harvesters
• Mulchers

Mining

• Drill rigs
• Underground equipment
• Hydraulic tooling
• Maintenance vehicles

Industrial

• Hydraulic presses
• Test rigs
• Material handling equipment
• Conveyor systems
• Manufacturing machinery

Understanding the Industrial & Cable Group Range

Industrial & Cable Group supplies three principal Multiflex Remote Valve Controls.

Each has been designed for a different duty level.

XVL-920 Remote Valve Control

The XVL-920 is the compact member of the family.

It features:

• Aluminium body
• Maximum load of 40 kgf
• 30 mm cable travel
• Stackable design
• Compact 42 mm width

This model is ideal where installation space is limited or where lighter hydraulic valve operation is required.

Typical applications include:

• Agricultural implements
• Compact hydraulic power packs
• Industrial machinery
• Mobile service equipment

Compatible Cable - 428050 Remote Valve Control Cable

XVL-670 Remote Valve Control

The XVL-670 sits between the light and heavy-duty models and provides a versatile solution for general industrial machinery.

It is suited to applications requiring dependable hydraulic control without the higher operating loads handled by the XVL-900.

Ideal for:

• General industrial equipment
• Agricultural machinery
• Utility vehicles
• Mobile hydraulic systems

XVL-900 Heavy Duty Remote Valve Control

The XVL-900 is designed for demanding applications.

Features include:

• Heavy-duty aluminium construction
• 50 kgf operating load
• 45 mm cable travel
• Three cable connection options
• Stackable controls
• Direct replacement for many competitor systems

Ideal for:

• Excavators
• Forestry equipment
• Cranes
• Heavy agricultural machinery
• Hydraulic power packs
• Mining equipment

Compatible cables include:

• 420050 Clamp Hub
• 422050 Bulkhead Hub
• 424045 Universal Hub

Choosing the Correct Cable

The control cable is just as important as the valve control itself.

Choosing the wrong cable can result in:

• increased friction
• poor control feel
• reduced travel
• premature wear
• difficult installation.

Industrial & Cable Group offers several cable end configurations.

XXXX - refers to cable length in centimetres eg 0125 = 125cm or 1.25m

Selecting the correct cable depends on:

• overall cable length
• cable routing
• mounting style
• required travel
• valve configuration

What Does "Stackable Controls" Mean?

One of the biggest advantages of this range is the stackable design.

Instead of mounting separate control bodies across a dashboard, several controls can be mounted side-by-side to operate multiple hydraulic functions.

Examples include:

• Boom Raise
• Boom Lower
• Bucket Tilt
• Stabiliser Legs
• Auxiliary Hydraulics

This provides a clean, professional installation while reducing dashboard space.

Advantages of Mechanical Controls Over Hydraulic Pilot Controls

Mechanical controls continue to be popular because they offer:

• Lower installation costs
• No hydraulic pilot lines
• Easy servicing
• Proven reliability
• Excellent operator feel
• Minimal maintenance
• Fast cable replacement

Common Industries We Supply

Industrial & Cable Group supplies Remote Valve Controls to customers across:

• Agriculture
• Civil construction
• Mining
• Forestry
• Waste management
• Manufacturing
• Transport
• Marine service vehicles
• Local councils
• Utilities

Installation Tips

For the longest service life:

• Avoid cable bends tighter than the recommended radius.
• Support long cable runs with clamps.
• Keep cables away from exhaust heat.
• Ensure full cable travel is available.
• Avoid twisting the cable during installation.
• Check valve alignment before tightening hardware.
• Periodically inspect cable ends for wear.

Maintenance

Remote Valve Controls require very little maintenance.

Recommended inspections include:

• Checking mounting bolts
• Inspecting cable end fittings
• Looking for damaged cable jackets
• Ensuring smooth operation
• Replacing worn cables before failure

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Remote Valve Control?

A Remote Valve Control is a mechanical lever connected to a hydraulic valve using a push-pull cable, allowing safe operation from a remote location.

What industries use Remote Valve Controls?

Agriculture, construction, mining, transport, manufacturing, forestry, marine support equipment and industrial machinery.

What's the difference between the XVL-920 and XVL-900?

The XVL-920 is a light-duty control with 30 mm travel and a 40 kgf load rating, while the XVL-900 is a heavy-duty model offering 45 mm travel, a 50 kgf load rating and multiple cable configurations.

Can I replace an existing Remote Valve Control?

Yes. The XVL-900 has been designed as a direct replacement for many competitor systems, making upgrades straightforward where compatible dimensions and travel requirements are met.

Can multiple controls be mounted together?

Yes. Both the XVL-920 and XVL-900 feature stackable designs, allowing several hydraulic functions to be controlled from one operator station.

How do I choose the correct cable length?

Measure the complete cable routing—not the straight-line distance. Include gradual bends and allow sufficient length to prevent tight curves or excessive tension.

Do Remote Valve Controls require lubrication?

The control units require minimal maintenance. Regular inspection of the cable assembly and mounting hardware is usually sufficient.

Why Buy from Industrial & Cable Group?

Industrial & Cable Group supplies genuine mechanical control solutions backed by expert technical support, fast Australia-wide shipping and decades of experience in industrial and hydraulic cable systems.

Whether you're replacing a single valve control or designing an entirely new hydraulic system, our team can help you select the correct Remote Valve Control and compatible cable assembly for your application.

Related Products

Remote Valve Controls

• XVL-670 Remote Valve Control
• XVL-900 Heavy Duty Remote Valve Control
• XVL-920 Light Duty Remote Valve Control

Compatible Cable Assemblies

• 420050 Clamp Hub Cable
• 422050 Bulkhead Hub Cable
• 424045 Universal Hub Cable
• 428050 Light Duty Cable
• 430045 Ball Type Cable
• 432045 Universal Both Ends Cable
• 434050 Universal/Bulkhead Cable

Need Assistance?

Not sure which Remote Valve Control or cable assembly suits your machinery?

Contact the Industrial & Cable Group team for expert advice. We'll help you identify the correct control, cable length and mounting configuration to keep your hydraulic equipment operating reliably and efficiently.