Backhoe Thumb Plans?

   / Backhoe Thumb Plans? #1  

Johnny Glenn

Member
Joined
Jan 14, 2011
Messages
27
Tractor
88 Ford 555B
Thanks for looking in - I'm trying to find plans for making a thumb for a Ford 555 backhoe. I've seen plenty of DIY info but no dimensions of thumb and supporting hardware. Thickness of steel etc? I'm thinking of installing a mount using U-bolts and wondering where on boom should it go? The boom is standard size of 5ft long and 7 inches wide, the bucket is standard 2ft. Any ideas or links? Thanks.
 
   / Backhoe Thumb Plans? #2  
Thanks for looking in - I'm trying to find plans for making a thumb for a Ford 555 backhoe. I've seen plenty of DIY info but no dimensions of thumb and supporting hardware. Thickness of steel etc? I'm thinking of installing a mount using U-bolts and wondering where on boom should it go? The boom is standard size of 5ft long and 7 inches wide, the bucket is standard 2ft. Any ideas or links? Thanks.

me to!

Viewing a thread - Ford 555A backhoe

the above link notes 3/4" used

if it was me, i would skip idea of U bolts. i don't think i can even find one that would be strong enough. that and clearance of the bucket cylinder. you might be able to get some threaded rod 1/2" or bigger, with thumb on underside and a metal plate on top. but you would most likely still have clearance issues with the cylinder.

brackets or entire thumb i would say be welded on. check your local papers, generally someone will list welding for x price and come to you. vs you hauling tractor to them. at least that is how it is around here.
 
   / Backhoe Thumb Plans?
  • Thread Starter
#3  
Thanks for the link -that thumb looks much easier to make than most I've seen! If you come across any other plans, please forward - thanks again.
 
 
 
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