dmccarty
Super Star Member
CurlyDave,CurlyDave said:Just as a comment, Eddie's method is a slight variation on the technique described on pages 203-5 of Operating Techniques for the Tractor-Loader-Backhoe by Gary Ober, 2000 edition. I seriously doubt that any unsafe practice would be recommended in this book, which is used for training by the International Union of Operating Engineers.
The only difference is that Ober illustrates cutting roots on the side toward the backhoe before pushing. Clearly Eddie's technique allows for taking out larger trees.
As an aside, I highly recommend this book. It is clear, easy to understand, and well illustrated with both pictures and line drawings. I got my copy from Builder's Book, Inc. Bookstore for $34.20 plus $8 shipping. Amazon had used copies for about twice the price.
I can't wait until the ground dries out enough to try this on a couple of trees that "have to go" on my land.
P.S. I am not meaning to say that Eddie didn't develop this technique on his own, or that he deserves less credit for bringing it to our attention. Only that it is recognized as a "standard" BH operation, and has been safety checked by professional operators.
I pulled out my copy of this book and reread the land clearing section again as well. The concern I have with cutting both sides of the tree is that it makes the tree less stable which could be dangerous. With cutting the roots on the tractor side per The Book, that should keep the tree from falling back on the tractor. BUT, it sure seems like it would be harder to push the tree down.
The Book recommends pushing the tree down without cutting roots. The larger trees require digging.
I was suprised that Obeds 46 BH pushed the tree over. I thought my 48 BH would have trouble pushing it down.
After reading this thread, The Book, and doing some thinking, I think what I'll try is to push it down per The Book. Don't think that will work on most trees with my BH but I'll try. Then dig out on the tractor side and push Per The Book. When that does not work I'll dig on both sides as least resort.
I have not had to take down any trees, Fran, Floyd and no name storms have taken down enough firewood for us to last years.
Word of caution though. I had a tree that was maybe 12 inches on the stump and 10 feet long. It had fallen and when I was cutting it eventually fell UP. I move it with the tractor but it was wobling around pretty good. Not real safe.
I'm seriously thinking about putting in an area for a small apple/peach/nut orchard and a good big garden. Unfortunately the area is mainly wooded so this technique should work well.
The Operating Techniques for the Tractor-Loader-Backhoe is very good for anyone who has a tractor and an FEL. Obviously its good if you have a BH as well.