back hoe side saddle?

[Dragonpharm]

I have also used the backhoe as a counterweight when I need to drive across a hillside and have the downhill side outrigger lowered close to the ground when it seems sketchy. Figured it can't hurt and it makes crossing one sketchy stretch less intimidating.

 

[Frankenkubota]

Another thing to consider, aside from what is mentioned above, is traversing inclines. If the incline is sever enough and you have to travel perpendicular to the hill you would want to swing the boom to the uphill position to shift the centre of gravity. Less likely to tip when the weight is uphill. Something to keep in mind if you always put it to one side and then find yourself in a position where you might be going diagonal to a decline and maybe drive through an unseen hole on the low side with the backhoe parked at the low side as well. Could be quite disastrous!!

Not as important on flat ground of course.

good point but, in my case, i do not get close to any incline that puckers me up.

 

[Richard]

I typically keep mine centered. Like others have said, I use it as counter weight if I'm traversing a hill and want the extra stability.

If you are on flat land (and evidently you make it a habit of picking up/moving some of the exposed rocks) I'd still be a bit wary (not necessarily nervous) about having it to the side because if I drove over a tree stump, root, rock OR, dipped into the hole left over from a moved stump or rock, I wouldn't care for the extra drama the exaggerated move might create.

(note that I also live in hilly terrain)

I often hoist and carry a tree using the backhoe. To allow me to "be skinny", I'll clamp the tree, rotate the hoe to the side so the tree is essentially parallel to the machine and drag it to the burn pile. These trees or logs can sometimes be 12/18 inches diameter though I've never really measured. Point being, they're of substance and not 3" saplings.

So as quick as I say I'm not comfortable with it, I've done it many times with the addition of a tree weighing it down at times.

 

[hkbirdman]

it's been almost 2 years since i got my tractor and the BH has never been off. i use it all the time, not every day but almost every time i'm out and about i see a rock or stump and i just gotta rip it out.

i drive around with the BH in what i'm calling the standard configuration, it sticks way out and straight back, everything tucked in properly. it took me a long time to understand just how far that thing sticks out and how it limits your ability to get around so.....

i just rotated the BH to the side and it buys me a little more clearance in the rear.

Is there any reason not to do this?

As a side note, i extended my 4 in 1 bucket as far out as it would go and the BH as far back as it would go. i think i walked off View attachment 715964 40 ft? that's a long machine!

Only reason not to do this is when you drive back into your barn and forget backhoe has been rotated. I did this once and it left a "mark" on the side of the door framing. Now I am reminded of what an idiot I can be when ever I drive into the barn.