The right way to install a thumb on a BX24

[Ken_CT]

There has been some question as to where the top link can be stored for the Bro-Tek thumb while it's not being used. On the BX23 there is a clip behind the seat that can hold the top link and keep it out of the way. I don't know if it is on the 22 or 24. Here is a picture of it in use.

 

[Harry c]

Looks like operating the BH could be a little uncomfortable with the top link stored there!

 

[RayCo]

I broke a couple of hydraulic fittings before discovering it was my Wallenstein thumb causing it. I didn't want to weld the thumb onto the dipperstick, because I wanted to be able to remove it easily. So, instead of welding the main thumb frame, I welded the backing plate on. This is strong enough to prevent the thumb from ever sliding, and I can easily remove the thumb and just leave the small plate on the dipperstick without even noticing it's there. See picture.

(Yeah, I know about the rust. I just got to the dealer this past Friday to get my Kubota paint finally.)

 

[Tom_H]

...I welded the backing plate on. This is strong enough to prevent the thumb from ever sliding, and I can easily remove the thumb and just leave the small plate on the dipperstick...)

Smart Idea!

 

[Shmudda]

Well....here is a pic of the Thumb I designed and built.

The layout on the tapered Dipper Stick was the key. When you have the taper like that you have to use it to your advantage!

Craig

 

[mpowrd]

Looks essentially like the Bro-Tek design with larger teeth on it.

I have the Bro-Tek thumb and like the way it uses the taper of the dipperstick and the independant side plates to ensure it won't move up the dipperstick. Have not had a lick of problems with it. Great product and very useful.

-mpowrd

 

[Shmudda]

Actually, thats what I used as an idea. As stated the key is to use the taper on the Dipper Stick so it doesn't move up. I also added a 1/4" plate between the (2) lower bolts and the Dipper Stick. The reason for this plate was when you are really pushing against the thumb it will equally distribute the load across the (2) bolts and also the Stick.

I haven't tried it yet because of the weather around here, but from all indications it's going to work real well with no interferiences that I can see.

Most of all, I have less then $50.00 in the whole thing, and about 5 hours of Engineering time!

Craig

 

[Tom_H]

I was at my dealer last week ordering a Woods BH6000 for my BX2200. He showed me (in his catalog) a Gearmore weld on thumb specifically for sub-compact sized backhoes. The price was around $530; that didn't include installation. I will be putting a Bro-Tek thumb on after it arrives.

 

[ChuckinNH]

There were some problems with the Wallenstein thumb when it first came out, some bending of the support link, etc. It could be that Neil was thinking about those issues when he made that statement. I have heard of no issues at all with Bro-Tek.

 

[ChuckinNH]

I agree about an apology being needed to Richard at Bro-Tek. I was just mentioning that there was a thumb available at the time that did have a few new product issues. ( we must remember that in manufacturing, there are no problems, there are issues, and situations)