Backhoe loaders are multi-tasking heavy machines. This heavy equipment uses its massive front-loading bucket, rear backhoe arm with a smaller bucket, & a wide range of optional attachments to perform a variety of tasks, making it a favourite among contractors & fleet owners.
However, a backhoe’s multi-tasking functionality leads to complexity & like any complex machine, it’s prone to malfunctions & mechanical failures. Therefore, basic backhoe repair tricks prove handy & can help you avoid unnecessary downtime until a professional backhoe mechanic arrives.
Below, we’ll cover basic backhoe problems & provide guidance towards backhoe cylinder repair & backhoe bucket repair.
1. Weaker Hydraulic Performance
The hydraulic system is one of the most important parts of your backhoe, & it determines a backhoe’s overall functionality. Hidden problems with the hydraulic system can lead to delayed or weaker hydraulic performance & difficulty in lifting. If left unsolved, these problems can open doors for more serious issues, hydraulic failures & unnecessary downtime.
Common causes of sluggish hydraulic performance may be due to
- Lower hydraulic fluid levels
- Contaminated hydraulic fluid
- Blocked/malfunctioned control valves
- Hydraulic hoses leak
- Overheating
- Clogged filters
You can perform basic fixes by:
- Carefully checking hydraulic oil levels.
- Top-up or replace if the level is low or the fluid is contaminated.
- Check the pump.
- Replace clogged filters.
2. Hydraulic Leaks
Hydraulic leaks are common in heavy equipment, & when it comes to backhoes, this problem often arises. You can spot leaks if you find hydraulic fluid leaking from cylinder rods. This problem often occurs due to broken seals. Backhoe cylinder repair is thus necessary to ensure your machine performs efficiently.
Common causes of hydraulic leaks can happen due to:
- Damaged or worn hydraulic rod seals.
- Cylinder rod scoring.
- Contaminated fluid.
- Overheating.
So, how to repair backhoe hydraulic cylinders? Well, you must follow these steps:
- Relieving the full hydraulic pressure & then carefully removing the cylinder.
- Open the hydraulic cylinder using a gland nut wrench.
- Install new seals (use genuine ones for reliability).
- Refill fresh fluid.
3. Powertrain Overheating
Like every automobile, backhoe loaders suffer from engine overheating. Given that these machines are engineered for demanding operations, an overheated engine is common & among the most common backhoe problems. Overheating can cause engine failures & serious damage, both of which can drain your pocket.
Common causes of overheating an engine can be due to:
- Old or contaminated engine lubricant.
- Lower coolant levels or contaminated coolant liquid.
- Water pump issues.
- Clogged radiators.
- Overloading.
You can troubleshoot using the following steps:
- Check the engine temperature gauge for overheating.
- Check the coolant level after the engine has cooled.
- If coolant levels are right, use a dipstick to check the engine lubricant.
- Check for lubricant level or contamination (replace if it’s thick & black).
- Check the radiator. Clean the radiator fins & check for mud, dirt, or dust build up.
- A thermostat or water pump failure can lead to the problem persisting.
- Consider professional help, call a backhoe mechanic.
4. Bucket Teeth Damage
The front-loader bucket & rear bucket are essential parts of a backhoe, and since both buckets are used regularly, they are prone to damage & corrosion. When a bucket’s teeth erode & its edges get blunt, you will often face difficulties in digging & scaping. So it’s important to perform backhoe bucket repair & keep the teeth in good condition.
Common causes of damaged bucket teeth include:
- Wear caused by abrasion & scraping against hard surfaces.
- Erosion & corrosion causing damage.
- Poor digging techniques.
- Ignored maintenance.
- Poor teeth quality.
Here’s how you can replace bucket teeth:
- Start backhoe bucket repair by removing the old pinner using a hammer.
- Replace the corroded/damaged teeth with new ones.
- Secure new teeth using new pins.
5. Operator Control Problems
Apart from hydraulic & powertrain problems, operator control problems are often reported by backhoe users. It refers to the problems that affect the smooth handling & usual response of a backhoe loader. Operator control problems can be due to worn linkages, loss of pressure, electrical malfunction & others, affecting overall efficiency, operator safety, & performance.
The most common causes of operator control problems are due to:
- Damaged or worn-out control parts & linkages.
- Contaminated hydraulic fluid.
- Loss of hydraulic pressure.
- Electrical issues in ECU & other control units.
- Malfunctioned control levers/joysticks.
- Lack of proper operator training.
Here’s how you can address operator control problems
- Regularly inspect linkage parts & replace them if they are worn out.
- Perform hydraulic pressure checks timely manner.
- Regularly clean & replace hydraulic filters
- Check electrical components & faulty connections.
- Lubricate & adjust control sticks for smoother operation.
- Train operators in efficient backhoe operation & troubleshooting.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Inspect your backhoe daily & look for visible problems.
- Grease components like pins, bushings, & pivot points regularly.
- Conduct fluid checks & ensure the engine lubricant, hydraulic oil, coolant, & transmission fluid are in good condition & proper level.
- Clean your backhoe. Remove mud, stones, sand & debris.
- Create a backhoe maintenance checklist & follow it regularly.
- Familiarise yourself with basic backhoe repair tricks & practices.
- In case of serious problems, call a backhoe mechanic.
