BUSH HOG BH650 (01) PDF Document

Before delivering the BUSH HOG BH650, the following checklist should be completed:

1. Machine properly assembled.

2. All safety decals are readable.

3. All bolts tightened to torque specifications given in the torque chart.

4. Machine operates properly.

5. The operator’s manual has been delivered to the owner, and they have been instructed on the safe and proper use of the backhoe.

It is also recommended that the tractor be equipped with a Rollover Protection System (ROPS) and seat belt for all implement operations.

When using a BUSH HOG BH650 backhoe, follow these safety precautions for the tractor:

1. Read the tractor operator’s manual to learn how to operate your tractor safely.

2. It is recommended that the tractor be equipped with a Rollover Protective System (ROPS) and a seat belt be used for all operations.

3. Add wheel ballast or front weight for stability.

4. Move wheels to the tractor manufacturer’s widest recommended settings to increase stability.

5. For better stability, use a tractor with a wide front axle rather than tricycle front wheels.

6. Move and turn the tractor at low speeds.

7. Before dismounting, servicing, repairing, or making adjustments: stop the tractor engine, place the transmission in park (or neutral), engage the parking brake, lower loader arms to the ground, cycle all hydraulic controls to relieve pressure, allow all moving parts to stop, and remove the ignition key.

8. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as protection for eyes, ears, lungs, head, hands, and feet. Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry.

Follow these critical safety rules when operating the BUSH HOG BH650 backhoe:

1. DO NOT operate the backhoe unless it is rigidly attached to the tractor.

2. KNOW your controls. Read the operator’s manuals for both the backhoe and the tractor.

3. PROVIDE adequate front-end weight to counterbalance the backhoe at all times. 20% of the total tractor, loader, and backhoe weight must be on the tractor’s front axle.

4. BE SURE the area is clear of overhead or underground utilities or other hazards.

5. POSITION a barricade around the work area.

6. KEEP all bystanders a safe distance away.

7. DO NOT attempt to enter the operator’s platform by using the stabilizers as a step.

8. OPERATE from the backhoe operator’s seat only.

9. ALLOW only one person to operate the backhoe at any time.

10. DISENGAGE safety locks before attempting to operate the backhoe.

11. NEVER dig with the backhoe unless the stabilizers are properly set.

12. DO NOT dig under stabilizers or the tractor. Soft ground or sandy soil can cause cave-ins.

13. KEEP BUCKET away from the stabilizer area to avoid possible stabilizer damage.

14. ALWAYS swing the bucket uphill to dump when on a hillside and keep the loaded bucket low.

15. SET BRAKES and block wheels when operating on hills and banks.

16. WATCH for overhead wires. DO NOT touch wires with any part of the backhoe.

17. NEVER allow a person to work under a raised bucket.

18. NEVER lift a person with the backhoe.

19. DO NOT use the backhoe as a battering ram. Use it only for digging.

20. ALWAYS lower the backhoe bucket and stabilizers to the ground, shut off the engine, and apply the parking brake before getting off the unit or when not digging.

21. NEVER leave the tractor unattended with the engine running.

22. DO NOT attempt to raise the tractor off the ground or move the tractor using the backhoe dipperstick or bucket.

TRANSPORTATION

1. ALWAYS engage safety locks before transporting the backhoe.

2. DO NOT drive the tractor near the edge of a ditch or excavation.

3. ALWAYS use accessory lights and devices when transporting on a road or highway to warn operators of other vehicles. Check your local government regulations.

4. BE SURE the SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) emblem is visible to the rear.

ADJUSTMENTS AND INSPECTION

1. CHECK pins that attach the backhoe to the tractor and all pivot pins for tightness several times daily. Replace any parts that are bent, broken, or missing.

2. ALWAYS engage safety locks before servicing the backhoe.

3. DO NOT oil, grease, or adjust the backhoe while it is in motion.

4. DO NOT change any backhoe relief valve settings. They are factory set for best performance and safety.

5. PROTECT YOUR EYES – WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.

6. GUARD AGAINST INJURY when driving connecting pins or performing any repair in which particles can chip from a workpiece or striking tool.

7. DO NOT remove any guards on the backhoe or tractor.

AVOID HIGH-PRESSURE FLUIDS. Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate the skin and cause serious injury. Be sure to stop the engine and relieve all pressure before disconnecting lines. Ensure all connections are tight and that lines, pipes, and hoses are not damaged before applying pressure to the system. Fluid escaping from a very small hole can be almost invisible. Use a piece of cardboard or wood, not your hands, to search for suspected leaks. SEE A DOCTOR at once if injured by escaping fluid. Serious infection or gangrene can develop if proper medical treatment is not administered immediately.

The BUSH HOG BH650 has two major control levers and stabilizer control levers located on the console ahead of the operator. The terms right, left, front, and back are determined from the operator’s seated position.

1. Left Hand Stabilizer: Push the lever forward to lower the LH stabilizer. Pull the lever back to raise the LH stabilizer.

2. Boom/Swing:

– Push lever forward: The boom moves down, away from the operator.

– Pull lever back: The boom moves up, toward the operator.

– Move lever to the left: The backhoe swings to the left.

– Move lever to the right: The backhoe swings to the right.

– This lever also has a “float” function. Pushing the lever further forward past a detent will cause the boom to float freely. When released, it should return to neutral.

– Intermediate positions allow for simultaneous movements (e.g., moving the lever forward and to the left will lower and swing the boom left).

3. Crowd/Bucket:

– Push lever forward: The dipperstick moves out, away from the operator.

– Pull lever back: The dipperstick moves in, toward the operator.

– Move lever to left: The bucket curls in.

– Move lever to right: The bucket extends out (dumps).

– Intermediate positions allow for simultaneous dipperstick and bucket movements (e.g., moving the lever forward and to the left will extend the dipperstick and load the bucket).

4. Right Hand Stabilizer: Push the lever forward to lower the RH stabilizer. Pull the lever back to raise the RH stabilizer.

In general, the direction of movement of a control lever corresponds to the movement of the operating member.

To safely transport the BUSH HOG BH650, follow these rules:

1. ALWAYS engage both safety locks (swing lock pin and boom transport lock pin) before transporting.

2. TRAVEL SLOWLY over rough terrain, on hillsides, and around curves to prevent tipping.

3. DO NOT drive the tractor near the edge of a ditch or excavation.

4. USE accessory lights and an SMV emblem when traveling on highways.

Before leaving the operator’s seat, position the backhoe for transport by raising the boom, crowding the dipperstick in, swinging to the center, and raising the stabilizers.

When transporting on a truck or trailer, lower the backhoe boom so the bucket rests firmly on the bed. Apply restraints to the TRACTOR, NOT to the backhoe or its attaching kit. DO NOT chain the backhoe down to secure the tractor to the trailer. Block and secure the tractor only.

Set the stabilizers to remove weight from the rear wheels of the tractor. The wheels should remain touching the ground. This provides the widest stabilizer stance and the lowest center of gravity. Raising the tractor’s rear wheels completely off the ground will reduce stability and digging depth, and will impair performance and impose unnecessary stress on the unit.

FILLING THE BUCKET

Control the bucket attitude throughout the digging cycle to keep the teeth at the proper angle for the best penetration. This will minimize dragging. In hard-packed soil, increase penetration by applying down pressure with the boom while crowding in and curling the bucket. To obtain a cleaner trench, crowd out and completely curl the bucket while starting to lift it from the excavation; this allows excess material to fall back into the trench.

DUMPING THE BUCKET

At the end of the digging cycle, lift the bucket clear of the trench while crowding it out and swinging it to the spoil pile. As the pile is approached, dump the bucket. When empty, the dipperstick and bucket are in position to resume digging upon return.

IMPORTANT: Avoid constant jarring or hammering-type contact between the spoil pile and the loaded bucket, as this may cause premature wear to the backhoe pins and bushings.

TRENCHING BETWEEN A BUILDING AND OPEN EXCAVATIONS

Start the trench at the building and dig halfway to the excavation. Then, start trenching from the excavation back towards the first trench until there is just enough room to move the unit out.

SIDE SLOPE EXCAVATING OR TRENCHING

Dig with the backhoe uphill whenever possible. Level the backhoe on slopes with the stabilizers to dig plumb trenches. Pile the spoil from the slot on the low side. When on a steep slope, cut a level surface along the uphill side of the trench with the loader, and pile the spoil of the cut downhill.

FINISHING STRAIGHT WALLS

To finish the far wall, crowd out while forcing the bucket down from the boom. Actuate the bucket (curl out) to keep the bottom of the bucket vertical. To finish the near wall, lift up and crowd in, keeping the edges of the bucket horizontal.

BACKFILLING

Backfill by lifting the bucket over the spoil pile and then crowding in. Pull both the crowd and lift levers for smooth, even backfilling.

IMPORTANT: Do not backfill by using the swing circuit and dragging the bucket sideways. Doing so can cause damage to the dipperstick, boom, swing cylinders, and/or the mainframe.

To avoid possible injury, observe the following safety rules WHEN SERVICING the backhoe:

1. ENGAGE safety locks before servicing the backhoe.

2. DO NOT oil, grease or adjust the backhoe while it is in motion.

3. DO NOT change any backhoe relief valve settings. They are factory set for best performance and safety.

4. Be aware that escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin. Relieve all pressure before disconnecting lines.

5. Use a small piece of cardboard or wood, not your hands, to search for suspected hydraulic leaks.

6. SEE A DOCTOR AT ONCE if injured by escaping fluid.

7. PROTECT YOUR EYES – Wear safety glasses. Guard against injury when driving connecting pins or performing any repair where particles can chip off.

At the beginning of each season, perform the following maintenance on your BUSH HOG BH650:

1. Remove all protective coverings.

2. Check hydraulic hoses for deterioration and replace if necessary.

3. Lubricate all grease fittings and oil handle linkages.

4. Check the hydraulic system for loss of fluid and, if necessary, fill to the proper level.

5. Tighten all loose bolts, nuts, and setscrews.

6. Inspect bucket teeth and, if necessary, sharpen or replace them.

7. Operate the backhoe slowly for a short time before placing the unit under full load.

Bleeding Hydraulic System

If hydraulic hoses have been disconnected, all trapped air must be removed. After connecting the hoses, start the tractor engine and operate the backhoe through all its movements fully several times to purge the system of air.

Hydraulic System Hoses

Check for oil leaks regularly. For pressure-side leaks, inspect the external area of hoses and fittings. For return-side leaks, check for foamy or bubbly oil in the reservoir. When tightening connections, always use two wrenches. Do not over-tighten. NEVER use teflon tape on pipe thread fittings; always use a paste-type sealer. Examine hoses regularly and replace any that show signs of failure.

Hydraulic System Reservoir (for PTO pump systems)

Maintain the oil at the proper level using the dipstick. To check the oil level, the backhoe should be extended to full reach with the bucket rolled back and resting on the ground. All cylinders should be retracted except for the boom cylinder. Change oil every 200 hours or more often if necessary. Fill with SAE 10W40 engine oil (API “SF/SG”) in northern climates or SAE 40W engine oil (API “SF/SG”) in southern climates. If the tractor system supplies power, service according to the tractor instruction manual.

Bolt-On Tooth: When worn, these can be replaced by removing the hardware that connects the tooth point to the cutting edge. Install the new tooth and replace hardware if necessary.

Roll-Pinned Tooth: When worn, these can be replaced by driving out the roll pin with a hammer and punch. Install the new tooth using a new roll pin and hammer.

Proper lubrication is essential for the operation of the BUSH HOG BH650.

IMPORTANT: Avoid excessive greasing. Dirt collects on exposed grease and increases wear. After greasing, wipe off excessive grease from fittings.

1. Lubricate all parts provided with grease fittings with a good quality chassis lube type grease. Replace any missing fittings immediately.

2. Clean all fittings thoroughly before using a grease gun.

3. Lubricate all grease fittings at least twice daily: once at the beginning of operation and again approximately halfway through the workday.

4. Before greasing, lower the stabilizers to the ground and lower the boom so the bucket rests on the ground.

5. IMPORTANT: Before greasing the boom to swing frame pivot, raise the boom and install the transport lock pin.

6. The following locations should be oiled with SAE30 oil:

– All Control Handle Linkages

– Seat Bracket Pivot

The backhoe is self-assisting for removal. Follow these steps:

1. Install the swing safety lock pin.

2. Stretch out the boom, dipper stick, and bucket. Lower the bucket to the ground so that it rests solidly.

3. Raise the backhoe operator’s seat to the raised position.

4. Place suitable blocking under the backhoe frame to support it adequately.

5. Detach the backhoe from the tractor mechanically only. The backhoe can still be hydraulically moved to release connection points. Move the tractor a few inches away.

6. Gently lower the backhoe onto the blocking. Leave the stabilizers outstretched and firmly in contact with the ground for added stability.

7. The hydraulic system can now be disconnected. CAUTION: Make sure the tractor PTO is disengaged and the engine is shut off before disconnecting the pump or hydraulic lines. For PTO pump systems, the pump is removed from the PTO shaft. For systems powered by the tractor, the lines can be disconnected. Be sure to mark the lines to prevent mix-up during reattachment and cap the ends to keep them clean.

8. Slowly drive the tractor forward and away from the backhoe.

9. For long-term storage, coat exposed lift, swing, and stabilizer cylinder rods with grease.

10. Lubricate all grease fittings and oil all handle linkages.

The following table provides guidance for diagnosing and correcting common hydraulic issues with the BUSH HOG BH650.

Before removing the BUSH HOG BH650 from the pallet, the stabilizer cylinders must be repositioned. The cylinder ports must be pointing upward and the hoses routed above the cylinder-to-mainframe pivot pin connection.

1. Remove stabilizers and fasteners from the pallet.

2. Position a stabilizer between its mounting lugs on the mainframe and insert the pin.

3. Cut the plastic ties from the rod ends of the hydraulic cylinders.

4. Swing the cylinder down and pull the rod end out to align with the stabilizer mounting lugs.

5. Pin the cylinder rod end into place with the provided fasteners.

6. Repeat for the other side.

Use the following tables for proper torque on American and Metric fasteners. Note that for plated fasteners, use 75% of the specified torque value. For lubricated fasteners, use 85% of the specified value.

AMERICAN FASTENERS – Recommended Torque in Foot Pounds (Newton Meters)

METRIC FASTENERS – Recommended Torque in Foot Pounds (Newton Meters)