3-point Hitch Backhoe Top Link Buckled: A Cautionary Tale

RickB · Nov 11, 2016

ovrszd said:
No disagreement felt. Let's clarify. On his hoe, it might say "heavy" rather than "maximum", I'll look today for sure. Whichever word is used, it implies the Draft needs to be activated. On his tractor that requires moving the Draft lever into an active position. It seems to minimize the 3pt slack or slop when in use???

Do you see where my manual specifies minimum draft sensitivity?
Your interpretation of your neighbor's and my Woods backhoe cautions and instructions is incorrect and if followed will lead to hydraulic pump failures at a minimum and injury or death as a worst case. Take a breath and figure it out.
There's nothing new in what I'm trying to convey here.

AchingBack · Nov 11, 2016

The OP has a WoodMaxx, backhoe, not a Woods.

RickB · Nov 11, 2016

AchingBack said:
The OP has a WoodMaxx, backhoe, not a Woods.

It doesn't matter. The operating principles are identical, especially as they relate to where the 3pt draft and position controls are set.

ovrszd · Nov 11, 2016

RickB said:
Do you see where my manual specifies minimum draft sensitivity?
Your interpretation of your neighbor's and my Woods backhoe cautions and instructions is incorrect and if followed will lead to hydraulic pump failures at a minimum and injury or death as a worst case. Take a breath and figure it out.
There's nothing new in what I'm trying to convey here.

I'm not doubting you at all Rick. This hoe has been used on this tractor in this manner for several years. So there's no pending doom. I didn't have time to follow up today, I'll try to do that tomorrow. I'll confirm how the draft lever is positioned and take a pic of the sticker on the hoe. Thanks for the followup.

RickB · Nov 11, 2016

Fair enough.

OldGinTractors · Nov 11, 2016

I would be ware of using a 3 point hoe on these Indian made tractors with the older style international hydraulic systems. When I hooked one up the geometry of the hitch caused the tractor draft control to constantly try and lift no matter where the levels where position. Just a warning that most all tractor manufactures don't recommend 3pt hoes and I know of 2 cases in my area a few years ago that resulted in fatal injuries. Please be careful!

oldpilgrim · Nov 11, 2016

Once, while digging a septic tank hole, the top link on my 3pt hoe broke. My ride to the bottom of that hole, face first, was a thrill I won't have to do again. I have a frame mount hoe now.

ovrszd · Nov 12, 2016

oldpilgrim said:
Once, while digging a septic tank hole, the top link on my 3pt hoe broke. My ride to the bottom of that hole, face first, was a thrill I won't have to do again. I have a frame mount hoe now.

Ouch!!!!!

beowulf · Nov 12, 2016

I know of 2 cases in my area a few years ago that resulted in fatal injuries. Please be careful![/QUOTE said:
Back when I first found this forum (2003 or so?) I recall a post where a grandfather was operating a back hoe with his grandson on his lap and something went wrong and they were both killed. I've never forgotten that post and that tragedy has stayed with me. I don't know anything about the issues in this post but sure know that being careful is critical.

dickfoster · Nov 12, 2016

oldpilgrim said:
Once, while digging a septic tank hole, the top link on my 3pt hoe broke. My ride to the bottom of that hole, face first, was a thrill I won't have to do again. I have a frame mount hoe now.

A one time E ticket ride, huh. I would have needed a clean pair of skivvies at least.