James11ac
New member
I'm a new owner and learning to use my FEL and BH. Yesterday I dug a huge hole to bury broken concrete. about an hour into it I stowed the BH and used the FEL to move the "dug" pile. On going back to the BH, the bucket retract and dipperstick extend movements produced loud moans. Everything was previously quiet except for the "normal" hydro pump. The noise never stopped. Fluid levels are good and no leaks. I've read one other thread about noises and realize most are OK. Still, the change makes you wonder.
Also, during the Big Dig, I was wondering how much is too much for the BH. Obviously, if the BH stops - that's too much, but what are the limits? I had the boom, dipperstick and bucket fully extended and was reaching across the hole scraping the far side. I kept the scrape shallow enough to not bog the movement but occasionally would hit a rock that would lift the tractor a bit. Are there rule of thumb no-no's? It would be nice to have a pro around to get experience from. I really gained a great appreciation for the guys who make it look easy!
Finally, I've read that some (most, all?) take their tractors to the dealer for 50 hr service. Is it something you can do yourself or is it best left to pros?
Thanks in advance,
Jim
Also, during the Big Dig, I was wondering how much is too much for the BH. Obviously, if the BH stops - that's too much, but what are the limits? I had the boom, dipperstick and bucket fully extended and was reaching across the hole scraping the far side. I kept the scrape shallow enough to not bog the movement but occasionally would hit a rock that would lift the tractor a bit. Are there rule of thumb no-no's? It would be nice to have a pro around to get experience from. I really gained a great appreciation for the guys who make it look easy!
Finally, I've read that some (most, all?) take their tractors to the dealer for 50 hr service. Is it something you can do yourself or is it best left to pros?
Thanks in advance,
Jim