Build a mini-backhoe???

[ptsg]

You got a build thread on that beast? Looks awesome

No, unfortunately I didn't take much pictures back then.

It's powered by a Kubota D640 with 17 HP, it has a 1.03 ci pump for the backhoe and drive motor and a 0.4 ci pump for the thumb and flail mower.

The drive train uses a 4.88 ci hydraulic motor, powering a 4 speed gearbox through a chain drive providing a 1:1.3 ratio to the gearbox. From the gearbox, goes to another chain drive, where I mounted the brake disc on top and drops to two differentials.

Now for the tricky part, I added the second diff years later after the first one and I could quite get the same diff I had already. So I managed to get a diff from a England made Ford Anglia which worked out in my favor as it rotated opposed to the diff I already had. This means I could get the diffs facing each other. From one diff to another, I added a chain drive to correct the diff ratio difference between the two diffs.

Both diffs are mounted on a subframe that pivots in the middle. I had to lift the machine when I added the second diff so I had room for all the transmission components. Almost like a lift kit on a truck.

 

[Sebculb]

PTSG, that's awesome. Congratulations, it actually works. Excellent inspiration, thanks!

 

[Sebculb]

Thanks Sonny, I'll keep that in mind about the steel thickness. I'll check that forum out also.

I think the way this silly notion will proceed will depend on what kind of 3 point hitch hoe presents itself to me eventually. Then I'll look for an old 4*4 to mount it on. It just looks too easy to take like an old Isuzu trooper and lock out the suspension and put a hydraulic pump in the fan belt where the air conditioner used to be or something. Easier to build a front loader than the hoe I imagine, especially from the control valves perspective.

The only thing seems difficult about adapting an old truck or SUV is that everything is on the driver's side and it'd be too much work to adapt everything to a central seating position. I've never seen an excavation machine with a driver's side and passenger side but I guess why not?

Thanks!

 

[ptsg]

PTSG, that's awesome. Congratulations, it actually works. Excellent inspiration, thanks!

Thanks Sebculb!

What I love about this machine, is that I can use it and abuse without being afraid to break my tractor in half if I used a backhoe on a tractor. And if it breaks, I can simply weld it back together, reinforce it and abuse it again, all on the cheap.

Let us know how your project develops. :thumbsup: