Bent my BX!

JWR · Nov 8, 2016

I agree. If you can get a new cylinder for $185 take it. An hydraulic shop could probably repair it replace the shaft, etc. but you are better off with a new cylinder, esp. at that price.

I am still puzzled how you get enough force sideways to bend that shaft. All the forces I can picture are in-line with the shaft, not in a direction that could bend it that way. I am wondering if something in the picture was binding or preventing the cylinder from rotating about the ends of it.

ovrszd · Nov 8, 2016

JWR said:
I agree. If you can get a new cylinder for $185 take it. An hydraulic shop could probably repair it replace the shaft, etc. but you are better off with a new cylinder, esp. at that price.

I am still puzzled how you get enough force sideways to bend that shaft. All the forces I can picture are in-line with the shaft, not in a direction that could bend it that way. I am wondering if something in the picture was binding or preventing the cylinder from rotating about the ends of it.

Lot of things come into play when it gives up. Even a very slightly misaligned pin can determine the direction of bend. Or a very small imperfection in the ram. As was stated earlier, it didn't bend itself. The forces applied by all other elements involved caused it to fail.

Sodo · Nov 8, 2016

My guesses

1) cylinder was at full extension, (very little overlap at the gland end.) maybe it cocked a little & jammed.
2) perhaps a little friction in the pin.
3) pulling with the tractor wheels, maybe it broke through one root then caught on the next. Maybe "whipped his dipperstick"

and the cylinder jammed momentarily at the full extension.
4) The rod can be very slightly bent. (Not this example its the other way) With the backhoe hanging out there its pretty easy to back up against something with the bucket fully curled, and ever so slightly bend the cylinder rod. Then overdoing it a little during another task is where the problem "shows up".

Seems like a guy could create a mechanism that supports the gland end of the cylinder only at full extension. For heavier use.

These little BXs often get in over their heads, and why NOT? That's their entire purpose, to be small, easy to buy, maneuver in tight spaces, easy to store, and do it all (just perhaps a little slower). And BE THERE when the job needs to be done. So many little jobs you'd be already done in less time than it takes to negotiate the rental, check your calendar, schedule it, and wait for the delivery of a bigger (rental) machine. But they certainly have limitations

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