Abstract: A solenoid operated directional valve with detent means for retaining the spool of the valve in either of two selected positions, the detent means being operatively associated with the solenoid pins for holding one or the other of the pins in a selected position and thereby for retaining the spool in a selected position in the absence of any direct connection between the detent means and the spool, the detent means further being located out of the flow-passageways of the valve so as to preclude interference with fluid flow and being constructed and arranged to provide detent disengagement forces of uniform low limits and with no side loads applied on the spool, and to contain no loose parts and to have a near infinite life.