What to look for in old backhoe

[mscher]

I'm considering purchasing an older backhoe, for work on the pond, leveling some ruts and moving snow. Also for moving field rocks. Some are available for under $4000.

Any tips on what to look out for, or any models that hold up well over time, appreciated.

 

[Zeeter]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

Any tips on what to look out for, or any models that hold up well over time, appreciated.

Parts availability and prices. You will break stuff.
That will vary by geographic area.

 

[ThumbPkr]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

Well said.........I would look for a Case or John Deere.If you happen to find a Cat that old you can still get parts for those.They have not been marketing TLBs as long as the other two have.
You are going to find leaks on any well used machine but try to have an experienced operator with you to run it and you can get a feel for what it needs.Bring it up to operating temperature and work it enough to know whether the transmission slips under load etc and if the brakes need work.
Expect to spend some money on it in any case but there is nothing worse than buying a machine that you cannot get parts for.Good luck.Ron G

 

[Bondo]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

What to look for in old backhoe

Ayuh,... Good Tight pins,+ bushings...

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

If you can find an operator who is a friend ask them to give it the once over and I agree w/Bond-O .....Pins and bushings Consider the tires too...they tend to cost a bit. Look over the "brand" of engine..... some are harder to get parts for.

Since you live in IN and are considering snow work...... chains? 4WD? How's the cutting edge on the bucket.

What I consider important is the transmission. It is a tough check on most and usually below the floorboard so it tends to be neglected. Brakes?

Basically I would operate the hell out of it and try to stress the hydraulics.

Have fun shopping.

 

[jimr]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

along with the other stuff, Hoses and tubes get expensive to replace. also get the repair manuals for what ever you buy. also older new holland/fords are fairly dependable.

 

[NoKlu]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

Another thing to watch for is dead spots in the rams. Some older machines have spots where the ram will slow down and stop for a sec or 2 then start to move again. It is a sign the ram needs rebuilding and can be a real issue working in tight quarters as when the ram starts to move again it can do it suddenly.

 

[mscher]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

Anybody know Case backhoes?

I took a quick look at one that was sitting in a barn for serveral years.

It was a real backhoe (not 3 point) I could not find a number on the tractor, but the loader had "740" painted on it.

Would not pay much for it unless I know it works.

 

[dontask]

Re: What to look for in old backhoe

Stay away from the hydrostatic drive transmissions designs. When they work they are great, but if you have problems--- trouble shooting & parts may make your $4000 back hoe real expensive in the long run. Forget about worn bushing, pins, hydraulic hoses they are easy & cheap to fix. Look hard at the engine, fuel injection system and the main hydraulic pump. When I did fleet maintenance for the City---John Deere was always my favorite for numerous reasons.
Good luck