Can I move my machine like this?

[TX Chris]

I got in the habit of setting my rear brake on the L3901 so the backhoe didn't move me around much. That forced me to dismount and get in the operator's seat to move the tractor every time. That really sucks when digging a trench.

I'll have to try it without the rear brakes set on the MX5400/BH92 and see how it goes.

 

[bdhsfz6]

I got in the habit of setting my rear brake on the L3901 so the backhoe didn't move me around much. That forced me to dismount and get in the operator's seat to move the tractor every time. That really sucks when digging a trench.

I'll have to try it without the rear brakes set on the MX5400/BH92 and see how it goes.

I usually curl the FEL bucket and lift the front end of the tractor. With the bucket edge in the ground, the hoe doesn't move much. I made an extension handle for the FEL joystick that I can operate from the BH92 seat. I also made one to attach to the treadle so I can move the tractor without dismounting the hoe. It's a reach to get at the steering wheel but I don't have to do it much when digging a straight trench.

 

[rScotty]

I am so getting the thumb. But is it safe to move an L48 like this? I know the new L47s come with a creep mode so you can move it from the BH seat. Is this a poor mans creep mode?

Yes, you can certainly move your hoe around that way. Just be smart about it so that you don't torque anything.

The trick is often in the loader bucket position. If you are sliding the whole tractor, it helps to put the bucket flat on the round and give it some down pressure to lighten or lift the front end. In the video he may not even have the bucket down,

You generally don't want to do this with the cutting edge of the FEL bucket down - too much resistance. And be sure to lift the rear high enough to get the outriggers clear. I wouldn't do that move with my Kubota if it had loaded rear tires - another reason not to load the tires. The JD310 is built enough heavier that it doesn't much care what you do. It's made much stronger.

Our M59 has creep mode, but there are times when more than creep is needed.....when you need to cross to the other side of a ditch for instance. Then lifting up the machine is the best way to cross over.

Just go real slow - particularly with the swing control. The body of the tractor is going to go OPPOSITE the direction the hoe is moving. And keep things low. I don't know that you can turn it over, but it can sure feel that way.

I'd recommend some practice on a flat area to start.
rScotty