Branson BH86 backhoe weld/channel failure

Outlawmoon · Dec 27, 2018

Anyone ever seen a BH86 backhoe 'mounting kit', item #3 in the parts manual.

See pic as well. Both sides broke the same way.

3Lfarms · Dec 27, 2018

Was the top link hooked up? My LS came with a top link installed, but now dealers tell people not to install them. I think not installing it would cause what you have pictured.

Outlawmoon · Dec 27, 2018

There is nothing in my parts book that says 'top link'. If you happen to have a BH86 parts manual handy, page 2 item 3 and page 3 item 3, p/n BMK4C. Its called 'mounting kit assembly'. Basically its the frame piece that goes under the Branson 4729h tractor and gets secured there.....

The part that I show broken is the long steel box tube closest to the mount to the bottom of the backhoe itself. Again if you have the parts manual its broken right at (page 2, item 2) bracket p/n BMK40-3100.

Interesting breaking point for sure..... As I had said in other posts where I had issues with the bucket for the backhoe not holding up that this backhoe is very powerful...it can easily move the tractor and lift it off the ground, probably how it broke the steel box tube framing...

K5lwq · Dec 27, 2018

I would lower the pressure setting on the relief valve. This would help protect things from being over stressed. Sounds like it has more than enough power.

3Lfarms · Dec 28, 2018

That mount is the same design as the one on my LS. My tractor is 68 HP and weighs about 8500 lbs with the hoe installed and the backhoe will pick up and move the rear of the tractor. If I didn’t install the top link, I have a feeling mine would eventually crack in the same spot as yours. You can see the link in this picture just under the seat.

Stimw · Dec 28, 2018

What RPM are you running your tractor engine at when digging?
I have a Branson 3510 and have adapted a BK 215 Chinese Hoe to it.
I run the engine at 1200 RPM and it operates very well.
If I went higher it would be overpowered and could lead to damage!
These ARE NOT commercial Backhoes, they are light duty use.
The fact that you damaged the bucket also tells me you are exceeding it's design.

countrybumpkin · Dec 29, 2018

That’s commonly called the “SubFrame” for the backhoe. A few manufacturers had issues like that over the years, most made the tube over lap area longer and also plated the over lap on the sides.