homebuilt backhoe

welderboy14 · Apr 22, 2009

im building a towable backhoe. the arm and stuff are going to be mounted to

the back of trailer. just woundering if any one had any tips like how many gpm

pump i should use four 4 2in cyilnders stuff like that. its my first time using

hydraulics

also will two of this joysticks work Brand Hydraulics Monoblock Loader Valve | Control Valves | Northern Tool + Equipment

thanks for any replys

SLOWMANDOWN · Apr 23, 2009

I am no expert, but I was instructed that having two 2 spool valves was not advisable, and to go with an assembled (in my case) 6 spool valve. J_J gave a great link Bailey Hydraulic Cylinders Manufacturer for hydraulic valves and such. my valve will come from them. as far as the pump I will be using a 4-5 GPM pump on a 9HP motor to work 4 2 inch by 10 inch stroke , and 2 1 1/2 inch x 10 1nch cylinders. I do hope I have been some help, and be patient as there are some really good and Knowledgeable people how subscribt in this form.

Iplayfarmer · Apr 23, 2009

I know I've mentioned this in other threads, but this guy on youtube has the most detailed and comprehensive advice on building a towable backhoe. He's real careful to not give out any dimensions or measurements that would be copyrighted in a purchased plan, but as for technique and methodology, he's very thorough. I can't say much more than he has already said.

Buy the plans if you are new to hydraulics (if you haven't already). There are half a dozen or so out there when you search for "Towable Backhoe". Someone else will have to give opinions as to which plans are better than others.

As for pump size vs. cylinder size, etc. it's kind of a matter of opinion and intended use. Of course larger cylinders will be slower, but will have more force. A larger pump will give more speed, but require more power and fuel.

Keep in mind that a towable backhoe is light, maneuverable, and cheap. You're not trying to compete with an excavator. You're competing with day laborers and shovels.

KYErik · Apr 23, 2009

I did one about 5 years ago- read about it here: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/81370-towable-mini-backhoe.html

It was pretty crude and I wanted more power- so I bought an old midsize backhoe (Case530) and I sold that unit for about $300.

Erik_in_Hoyt · Apr 23, 2009

surpluscenter.com has pretty fair prices on valves, cylinders, and pumps - and they even have a "backhoe valve set" so you don;t have to gang up 2 way valves.

welderboy14 · Apr 23, 2009

KYErik said:
I did one about 5 years ago- read about it here: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/81370-towable-mini-backhoe.html

It was pretty crude and I wanted more power- so I bought an old midsize backhoe (Case530) and I sold that unit for about $300.

well its better than digging by hand

Tr4ct0r · May 5, 2009

They can use up to 10 GPM at 4000 psi. I think, not sure.

JoelD · May 5, 2009

I had a caddigger, 5 HP motor, 3 GPM pump, 2 inches except for boom which was 2-1/2. That thing dug like no tomorrow, I pulled huge rocks out of the ground.

I also like Surplus Center for hydraulic supplies.

Caddigger has plans as well as kits you can purchase.

Good luck,
Joel

vicashoe · May 25, 2009

Surplus center is good but if you check out EBAY search YZ outlet they have a lot of cylinders cheaper than SC. Just as good I use Prince myself but my first hoe was built using YZ cylinders and they were fine

welderboy14 · May 28, 2009

JoelD said:
I had a caddigger, 5 HP motor, 3 GPM pump, 2 inches except for boom which was 2-1/2. That thing dug like no tomorrow, I pulled huge rocks out of the ground.

I also like Surplus Center for hydraulic supplies.

Caddigger has plans as well as kits you can purchase.

Good luck,
Joel