fried1765
Super Star Member
- Joined
- Jan 6, 2015
- Messages
- 10,089
- Tractor
- Kubota L48 TLB, Ford 1920 FEL, 8N Ford, Gravely 12 HP "Professional", 48" SCAG Liberty
Those instructions were clearly written by a lawyer. A couple things to keep in mind when reading those instructions.....first, the manufacturer will always say to operate as conservatively as possible to help them avoid excessive warranty claims. Second, often times these backhoes are designed by a third party for use across multiple platforms. They are attachments, and can be exposed to a wide array of operating conditions. Picking the back of the machine up on a 3 point hitch backhoe, for example, might not be recommended. A subframe should be significantly more capable.
Bringing the wheels off the ground will not significantly change the digging depth or stability.....nor will it increase stress in the area that the OP frame was broken. If anything, lifting the tires would reduce stress in that area when applying force under a tree root or stump.
I pick up the back of my machine all the time. Often times that's required to get the back end level if it's not on a perfectly flat surface. If it breaks, I'll weld it back together and make it stronger. I bought my equipment to use, and I will use it to its capability. Every once in a while that means I need to improve a weak area in the original design.
As I said earlier - if this was my backhoe I'd weld that back together, reinforce it so that it doesn't happen again, and go back to using it without overthinking things.
Sure am glad I took the Ford dealer's advice 31 years ago!
He said: Don't buy a very small, or an aftermarket hoe.
"I'll find you a small factory assembled industrial unit".
Wow! Excellent advice! I waited & waited!
Took nearly 2 years, but he found a small, used, 1350 hr. (16 yrs. old then) Ford industrial TLB with 10' hoe.
I run that hoe with wheels always well off the ground. It is strong as an ox, and I can use the hoe to drag/push the machine wherever I want. I do not use my TLB more than about 15 hours annually. Factory subframe allows for quick disconnect", but I have only had the hoe off only once in 31 years. Tractor does have 3 pt. hitch & PTO also.
Just did a complete refurbishment on the entire machine this year.
It is currently asleep in my barn, while am away for the winter, enjoying outdoor warmth & sunshine.
Now "Cat" yellow, machine looks like new! Would post pictures, but TBN picture posting is too complex for me.