Abstract: A hydraulic circuit for raising and lowering a load arm on a work machine is adapted to provide a ride control function which will cushion shocks through the load arm as the machine traverses rough terrain. The circuit includes a hydraulic ram that moves the load arm and a first hydraulic accumulator connected to a first chamber of a hydraulic ram. The accumulator provides a cushioning effect to the ram when the ride control function is engaged. The accumulator is located between a first control valve and a load hold valve of the circuit so that the load hold valve will hold the ram in position should there be any sudden pressure drop in or adjacent the accumulator. The accumulator can also be connected to a control surface of the load hold valve to simultaneously open the valve and cushion the ram. A second dedicated accumulator can also be introduced for this purpose if desired.

Abstract: A hydraulic circuit for raising and lowering a load arm on a work machine is adapted to provide a ride control function which will cushion shocks through the load arm as the machine traverses rough terrain. The circuit includes a hydraulic ram that moves the load arm and a first hydraulic accumulator connected to a first chamber of a hydraulic ram. The accumulator provides a cushioning effect to the ram when the ride control function is engaged. The accumulator is located between a first control valve and a load hold valve of the circuit so that the load hold valve will hold the ram in position should there be any sudden pressure drop in or adjacent the accumulator. The accumulator can also be connected to a control surface of the load hold valve to simultaneously open the valve and cushion the ram. A second dedicated accumulator can also be introduced for this purpose if desired.