Backhoe B26 Backhoe Outrigger Cylinder Rod Guards with Steps

[Smokeydog]

Wanting similar guards like was on the M59. Rocks or inadvertent bucket strike can damage the rod. The added steps sure help climbing up and down for us older folks.

This is the M59 cylinder guards.

Using materials on hand so they are thicker metal than needed.
5” square tubing, 17” long split in half long ways. Shape saves some bending.

15” long pieces 1.5” and 2” flat bar for slides.

Cylinder perches. These will be welded to the cylinder.

One of four steps.

Work in progress.

 

[civilian]

My B26TLB has the steps for the backhoe use, but not the guards. They would be nice to have. I try to shake off the dirt as I raise the arms to keep dirt from the seals. But that doesn't always work. I noticed one cylinder seal weeping a bit during none use this winter, but doesn't seem to weep anymore since being used this summer.

Keep up the progress and posting of pictures. Thanks, Jon

 

[kneedeep]

l really need a step on my down rods to get on & off

 

[Tinhack]

Cylinder perches. These will be welded to the cylinder.

Nice job of fabricating!

When you weld those to the cylinders, be sure to stay away from the gland seals and take note of where the piston is located.

 

[Smokeydog]

Been welding and preparing parts to test fit.

Welding on the cylinder will be tricky. 2.5” square tubing base. Protection from weld splatter a must. Plan on 6, -0.5” welds on each one. Cooling with water soaked rag and cycling cylinder after each weld. Don’t want damage to the seals.

Fabricating some mega outrigger pads has taken some shop free time.

Like combination rubber and cleats around the farm. It came with those rubber pads and really impressed how well they grip. Some soft areas need extra surface area a cleats. 3X surface area. 60# each. Almost 6” height added helps leveling on hillside or creek bank.

Trying to have both mods ready when switching to back to backhoe mode.