Backhoe Logging with a Backhoe

[LD1]

We pull logs out all the time with chains attached to a JCB large 4WD backhoe loader with outriggers out. Pull repeatedly reattaching chains as we go. As long as size of log is reasonable relative to your pulling power and you are on a stable surface I can't see any issues with it.
A snatch block and strong cable or very strong rope is another option to get logs from woods to the road - could pull with the drawbar and use the snatch block on a firm attachment point like large tree to allow the force to be parallel to your road.

Correct, using the backhoes own hydraulics to pull the logs, there is no issue.

My point was chaining to the backhoe, and then driving the tractor with the log chiained to the boom. That is bad.

 

[dfkrug]

Or is it better to hook the logging chain to the FEL, and drive in reverse?

Logging is one of my primary tractor tasks here, and I use cables, chains,
and snatch-blocks. When pulling with the cables, I pull backwards using
a reinforced attachment point on the lower front engine subframe. When
skidding the log close in to the tractor, I use a chain attached to a
mid-point hook on the back of my FEL's pallet fork frame and lift the
closest end of the log off the ground before pulling backwards. My hoe
is always attached, so I have plenty or ballast for those heavy lifts.
My logs are often well over 2000#.

When a tree falls across my creek, I often have to use the hoe and
thumb to do the initial pull and lift....always with the outriggers down
and using the hydraulics. I would never drive the tractor with some
large load suspended from or pulled by the hoe bucket.

 

[Scotty370]

....always with the outriggers down
and using the hydraulics. I would never drive the tractor with some
large load suspended from or pulled by the hoe bucket.

That's exacty what I was trying to describe, but I guess you and LD1 described it much better....... The "Inch-Worm" approach, with repeated repositioning, and bucket curling is what I was going for, you guys did a better job, Thanks! Also, I'm not a fan of using Cable/Wire Rope etc. That stuff can build up tensile energy, and snap back at you if it breaks, with enough power to take your head off! If you've gotta use it in a 'bind', be sure to throw a blanket or tarp over it close to the tractor to adsorb the recoil, if the cable breaks! I do this even when using an ATV winch. It might just be a Jacket, but whipping cable is a nasty deal. Be safe.........~Scotty

 

[dfkrug]

Also, I'm not a fan of using Cable/Wire Rope etc.

I use a lot of chains, but sometimes cables are the only practical way. I
have to pull logs off a mountain side and use a snatch block chained to
a tree to re-direct forces. I have a 100' cable, and a 50-footer, both with
slip-hooks (chokers). The snatch block has a pulley that fits my size of
cable.

I have broken the end splices on the cables a few times, but more
dramatic was breaking 5/16" cheapo grade 43 chain links. When the
links break, they shoot out like bullets. I highly recommend using grade
70 chain.

 

[Short Game]

The ONLY way you should pull ANYTHING at ALL if attached to the BH is with the BH's own power, NOT the tractors.

I knew a guy with a JD 450C. He bought a hydraulic winch to pull with instead of his backhoe. It turned out that using the winch was much like using a backhoe for logging. He hooked the cable to a big log and tried to drive away with it. Killed the gears in the winch. It just wasn't made to pull that way. We learned something that day.

 

[brewdog]

the fel is designed for pushing. the 3 point is designed for pulling and not pushing. the hoe is designed for digging.

 

[Coyote machine]

the fel is designed for pushing. the 3 point is designed for pulling and not pushing. the hoe is designed for digging.

FEL is also for lifting.

 

[LD1]

FEL is also for lifting.

3PH is also for lifting too.

 

[Dr_Zinj]

Seems like you're saying that if you can skid the log using just the backhoe, then you could safely tow the log chained to the backhoe. But if the BH won't budge the log, trying to tow it attached to the hoe will destroy your hoe.

Makes sense to me.

 

[Short Game]

But if you are towing a log with the hoe that it can move hydraulically, but the log hangs up on something or the drag increases in any way, you could still break the hoe in a split second, because the tractor can pull harder than the hoe, and will if it's asked to, even if it's not intentional.