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Open- vs. closed-center hydraulics

The debate between open-center and closed-center hydraulic systems is complicated, and the correct choice depends on who you talk to. "There are genuine pros and cons to both systems," says Barth. Both sides claim you can get good "feel" through the system.

Varko Excavating likes the closed-center system because it replicates the feel of an excavator. "As an owner/operator, I went with the 410 because in the field it felt more like an excavator to me than a backhoe," says Varga. "When I started on my own, it was after operating excavators for several years. So I've always had a piston pump. It is more the excavator-style hydraulics."

Varga feels the closed-center system delivers smoother operation. "The gear pump is a little more on and off," he explains. "I just don't find that you have as much control over it. We do some work around gas lines, electrical lines and live utilities and we want to be able to get close to them and have good control of the machine."

However, Winkler counters, "An open-center system gives the operator more feel because the system has continuous flow on our mechanical units. The pilot units use an open-center system with a closed-center valve, which gives the operator better feel with better functionality."

Barth adds, "A properly designed gear pump [open] system can be very efficient and operate with a high degree of performance. From a longevity and repair standpoint, it can be very cost effective. In other words, they have a very low repair cost."