First Ever? Brotek Thumb for 46 Backhoe

[C-Range]

Hey All,

After trading in our 2305 with 260 backhoe for the 2520 with 46 backhoe, I figured my Brotek thumb was destined for the online auction block. Then, just in the nick of time, it occurred to me that I might be able to adapt it to the 46 quite easily. After a nip here and a tuck there, it's a go.

I ended up stripping and refinishing the whole thing from top to bottom because I couldn't stand looking at the "close enough" green paint it had been given at birth any longer. Now, it almost looks like it was made for the 46. Actually, it fits the 46 better than it did our 260 as the 46 backhoe is built similar to the Kubota hoes with its rectangular tubing dipperstick vs the tapered welded section 260 dipperstick.

 

[Runner]

Looks great!

What mods were required? Did you just have to reposition the two bolts on the back side?

I really want one for mine. It is a project for another day.

 

[C-Range]

Hey Runner,

Yep, got some shorter bolts, moved the two backside holes inward, shortened the two pivot shafts, and sawed down the centering spacer for the top link. I think that was it. Sorry, I didn't get any photos of the work but it wasn't rocket science. I did also add some of this great 3M adhesive backed rubber sheeting that I have to the plates and to the dipperstick to (try to) protect the 46's finish. You can see some of it in these photos. It was probably in vain, but hopefully it'll last a few minutes anyway...