Backhoe RPM while using backhoe?

[Aavantaggio]

What speed do you all keep your tractor at while running your BH? My manual basically says it up to the operator, higher RPM means faster movement. Anyone have a sweet spot? I don’t think pinning the RPMs is the best idea either. It’s on a MT240HE.

Thanks all.

 

[Avenger]

I have a different tractor. But when I am operating my backhoe, I run the engine at pto speed. No particular reason other than it's easy to remember and is high enough to provide enough hydraulic flow and pressure to the backhoe. When hooking and unhooking the backhoe, I operate the hydraulics at an idle.

In excavators, the dial gets turned up to 11 (all the way)

 

[Diggin It]

I keep mine where the boom movement is comfortable ... not too fast to swing or move too quick. Seems like it's usually in the 1800-2200 range.

 

[hawkeye08]

I run mine slower than 540 pto speed, I like slower and gentler movements. Occasionally, I will increase rpms for hard soil that needs a bit more power, but I am not that experienced so tend to take longer and run slower.

 

[DK35vince]

My backhoe works best for me around 2100-2200 RPM.

 

[MikeInEburg]

I run at just under half of PTO speed - for me this provides a nice balance of speed and quiet.

 

[Gary Fowler]

I dont like the engine noise above 2200 so I keep it below that. I dont get any more power with faster RPM and very little more speed. 2000 RPM is just about right for power, speed and quiet of engine noise.
You can run the engine any speed you like to get the control that you need.

 

[Diggin It]

I've seen on the internet, so it must be true, right?

You don't gain power/pressure/digging force with increased RPMs. You only gain speed of movement due to increased flow rate.

Words I've gleaned from others.

 

[Jaylegger]

My pressure at the backhoe reads 1800 psi at idle and 2200 psi at 3000 rpm. 1500-2000 ish rpm's is my sweet spot for smooth and quick enough movement unless I need that little extra psi for which I goose it.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

Yep, I run mine at about 2100 most of the time, sometimes at 2200. I think one time at PTO speed, seemed to be just louder, no additional power. At least I did not think so....