Get all the filters. Only change the Engine oil and filter, antifreeze and Hydraulic Fluid because you don't know when it was last done. Also change out the fuel filter. Keep a spare fuel filter.
Hydraulic fluid and anti freeze is only changed every 4000 or more hours and are both in sealed systems unlike oil that is prone to fuel blowby and moisture. He should check am the levels in the wheel hubs in the center of the rim. They are either loosened with an Allen key or a 1/2" wratchet end. The hole should be checked at the 3 or 9 o'clock position and filled with 90 weight gear oil.
@@blindabinda1234 that John Deere is between 1991 and 1997 so 21 to 27 years old. It should be over or past the 4000 hour service. Antifreeze has a life span of only 3 to 7 years. When it goes bad you can take a multimeter and actually get a Voltage reading on it. Engine oil can be tested to see if it is still good but it won't hurt to just change it you and do that every 250 hours of use. Hydraulic Fluid you have no idea what has been used hydraulic attachment wise. So Changing it out and having it analyzed by a lab may give you a heads up on soon to be coming Maintenance issues from hydraulic lines breaking down to mechanical failure coming up.
I would repair the leaking cylinder. However, would be curious if the backhoe arm and bucket slowly lose pressure when loaded. Some Google searches and some discussions with some Commercial Deere Techs will probably determine (most likely problem) how to repair the cylinder (I would guess seals). I hate leaking hydraulics because things move at the worst times. Replace the zerks that won’t take grease. Get the old angle grinder out and start grinding out the rust and replacing with primer or maybe bed liner coating around the work station. You have to keep your backhoe, it can do all kinds of things on your farm, including pull your other Deere out, if she gets stuck. Second best piece of equipment on the farm. She looks great!
Change all filters and engine oil, filters are cheap. I have the JD 410G and filters are a cheap investment. Orileys auto parts has oil that will cross with JD OIL and it’s a lot cheaper. Cylinders are easy to rebuild and parts can be sourced a lot cheaper than buying from the Dealer. Shoot me a pm if you need a link.
Definitely keep it. You’ll wish you had it to fix culvert pipes, drainage ditches, or even do a little forestry work with it. Awesome piece of equipment
Hi Josh, I ran a 310D, 4X4 full cab, in the early 90's in Colorado. That is a good machine, reliable, everyday runner. Keep the machine, you have a house to build, farm to build up, sheds to build, ditches to dig and grade and stumps to dig. You will find many uses for the machine on the farm.
If you plan on doing the foundations, septic tank, power line trenching and whatever else when you build your house then keep the backhoe. At least until you finish the house and then decide if you want to sell it. That way you don't have to be rushed with rental equipment trying to complete your tasks. ~Mike~
I like that you remembered to grease the machine, but perhaps it would be a better idea to grease after pressure washing to force out any water in the bearings
That's a great piece of equipment for a farm or ranch. The possibilities are endless. After clean up put it the shed until needed. The key is keep under cover out of the weather.
Josh, I have a small farm in Virginia and run an old John Deere 510B. I can't live without it. I have John Deere 2955 4W tractor with a loader, but that loader can't compare to the backhoe loader. If you have to fell trees or do any digging at all, the backhoe will become priceless. Regarding oil changes. The engine oil is a must every 600 hours or annually. Hydraulic fluid can be tested. Also, if you rebuild cylinders or replace hoses, you'll likely be replacing older hydraulic fluid with new over a few years.
I'm not an expert but I don't think you're supposed to check the Hydraulic fluid with all your Hydraulics extended. Seems to me if I had a working farm a backhoe would be priceless. If it's not eating anything it would not go anywhere. It's a machine you will need in the future when you start building your house.
Definitely keep it looks like a very solid machine that comes in handy for random jobs. Might be a good idea to change everything on it because you do not know when it was last done that way you know where you are at with the machine
One thing most haven't mentioned is a Parts Manual and/ or Operators on the Equipment you have they help answer a lot of the questions you have and give some very good info that you will need in both keeping as well as selling, usually can find them on Ebay fairly cheap.
Probably already been said, but I believe hydraulic fluid is checked with all cylinders retracted. If they were all extended, then you filled, then retracted everything, you would have an overflow issue. And I would recommend as I did when I bought my tractor, just changed all the fluids and filters, that way you know they are good.
Josh when driving the backhoe around you should have the backhoe folded all the way with the bucket tucked and backhoe locked in place the bucket could contact the ground only time you can leave backhoe like you have it is while digging making this suggestion from experience running backhoe loaders
From what I can see that is a high serial number 310d. Excellent machine. I have one myself with close to 10000 hrs on it. You have several fluids to check. One of course is the hyd oil. Next is a very important one which is reverser oil. It is the lower dip stick in front of the steering wheel. A lot of people forget. It needs to be check with engine running. You probably need to change it. It uses J20C approved TDH oil. It takes care of the torque converter and wet clutches in the reverser. Also the transmission dip stick is at your feet when sitting in the seat. It also uses J20C oil. There are grease fittings on top of the axle at the tires need to be greased every oil change.
dont add hydraulic fluid to it, need to lower the front bucket onto the ground with the bucket flat, then raise the backhoe boom up, stick in and bucket curled, thats the proper way to have the machine parked to check the fluid. Id change the oil and oil filter, along with the fuel filter and call it good
If you are going to build a new home the backhoe is an essential piece of equipment for digging and material movement. Keep it and you can use it and still sell it for very little difference in what it is worth now. JD's hold there values well!
To all the commenters saying to draw in all cylinders, these are double pressure , push both ways. So moving the cylinder does not change the amount of fluid in it.
Josh, As pretty much everyone else has said,unless you got to the point where you simply could not operate the backhoe, you should keep it. If you feel you got a great deal on it,(along with the compacts you bought in package deal) you will always feel like it is a small cost to have such a versatile mule to have at your disposal for many varied farm cleanup jobs. JMO.
The problem is keeping up another piece of equipment and repairing it when it breaks....I have enough time invested in fixing what I have now.....my dad told me this "You are building yourself a monster!"
Maintenance Specialist here, 25 years experience: Change all filters, change engine oil. Flush coolant and refill. It is not necessary to change the hydraulic fluid unless it's contaminated. There might be a filter screen in the diesel lift pump if it has one. Keep a couple of spare fuel filters on hand. Change the fan belt. Check the radiator hoses and replace the radiator cap. Blow out the radiator with compressed air. Check for chaffed spots on the hydraulic hoses, address accordingly. You should be all set! That weeping outrigger cylinder is no big deal, but it's not hard or expensive to rebuild if you need to.
Josh I grew up a agriculture diesel mechanic and worked on hundreds of back hoes. A back hoe is like a boat the 2 best days of owning one is the day you buy it and the day you sell it. They are high maintenance if you are not going to use it often. You are suppose to check the hydraulic oil with the bucket down not up that is why it read low. If you decide to keep it change all the oils and filters (pumps are expensive to rebuild) don't worry about the fuel it will burn out eventually. Rebuilding rams and changing lines can run lots of money and they break when you are using them not when it is convenient to change and usualy pump out most of the oil in the process. Renting is a better idea.
my 2 cents: The oil doesn't need changed just because it sat because the oil looks good. The filter does. The hydraulic filter needs changed and then topped up to standard level. The anti-freeze needs changed. The fuel filter needs changed and get two so after it runs a few hrs change the fuel filter again. I hear you say maintaining this one. If you go in and out smoothly on the hydraulic controls and never snapping them sharply or running the bucket up and down and side to side smoothly without stopping suddenly I see no maintenance other than fuel and oil. Remove the outrigger end plate and change out the shaft seal on the leaking outrigger. I see no maintenance for two years on this low hr machine except fuel and filters after you do the first preventive maintenance. As much as you use this then having to do anything will depend if you go down to the nieghbors and dig a 1/4 mile 6ft ditch then maintenance will start. Depending on use. You have no running savvy on how to smoothly control the hydraulics, so you will overcontrol, instead of being smooth. practise smooth then the seals and cylinder cups will last. I forgot something. On the hydraulic pump you have a suction strainer and an outlet filter. Sometimes the suction strainer gets plugged up. You have to clean it with degreaser, like acetone, or brake cleaner.
Algae in Diesel. Usually when too much water content in fuel. Usually draining bottom of tank of water alleviates much of this. You can also use HEET in diesel to help remove water.
Check all hydraulic fluids and change filters for safety purposes. Keep it for help around. Don't ever try to run out of fluids because u will have to reblead everything that was blead. That's my opinion I have worked around machines my whole life so try it if u want. That's my advice. Appreciate everything!!
Change all fluids and filters, leave the diesel alone but change the fuel filter. You will not regret keeping it, there will be many new uses for it you wouldn’t have known about if you would have sold it. Keep up the great videos, I enjoy your content!
HI Josh. I’d change engine oil and all filters. As for hydraulic fluid work the machine if anything leaks this can be fixed then change fluid after running it for a while. As for keeping it. It’s a no brainier - keep it it’s a very handy machine. 👍🏻
Stoney Ridge Farmer - hi Josh. Thanks for your reply. Ummm tricky one as it’s a handy machine but if you feel you won’t get any use from it and cheaper to rent etc then it’s a sell and put the money back into the farm. But if you can use it for a year or so mending the stream bridges that got washed out etc then sell it at least you get some kind of benefit from having it. Tough call mate.
With hydraulic oil you need to have the boom buttoned up and the bucket down and warm it up before you check it because hydraulic oil expands when warm
Im sure someone already said it. Don't check hyd oil with cylinders extended and warm. Check when all compressed and cold. I would also put new antifreeze in because its cheap. Good luck with whatever you do
1) I'd change the engine oil and filter (along with a typical full service) 2) Change the fuel filter, top the fuel off with fresh diesel and put the additive in it. At about a 1/4 tank, fill it back up with fresh and change the filter again with more additive. If it's running fine, move on to regular service intervals. 3) Leave the hydraulic oil alone and probably change the filter- run it for about 25hrs and check the filter, if its nasty, change the hydraulic oil. 4) And as you can financially, change/flush the hydraulic oil, transmission, etc to make it fresh and as close to brand new as possible!
A bit of backhoe nomenclature. The arm that attaches to the tractor is the boom. The arm that attaches to the boom is the dipper. Of course, the bucket attaches to the dipper. The two stabilizers are called the outriggers. This is important when you are telling the operator what to do. Raise the boom, lower the boom. Extend the dipper, retract the dipper. Unless hydraulic fluid has been overheated or is visibly dirty, it seldom needs to be changed. You can take a sample and have it checked. Ask your dealer about oil analysis. Diesel fuel gels when the temperature drops below the gel point. Diesel fuel contains paraffin wax. When it gets cold, the paraffin drops out of solution and causes the gel. Gelling is more of a problem when equipment sits for a while. Diesel fuel supplements are available to prevent gelling and clean your injectors. I always use them.
My advice as a long in the tooth, and sore in the back diesel mechanic. Change all the filters, and engine oil. Take a sample of the hydraulic oil, and the reverser oil, and send them in for analysis, and only change it if there is contamination. The cost of a John Deere oil analysis, is about the same as a gallon of HyGuard. To simplify what the reverser is, think of it as an automatic transmission, with a single forward and single reverse clutch pack. This machine has deprecated about as much as it will, Use it a year or two, then sell it.
Backhoes are the most versatile machines on the farm. Had old wore out one years ago and sold it later and was lost without it. Since purchased a good used JD410D. Use it all the time. Will not sell this one.
Change all the filters and all fluids. get that fuel drained and start fresh if you plan on keeping it. That means air filter tooooo. I always like to start with a clean slate
Mate definitely change all oils and filters...hydraulic oil is very problematic with taking on moisture.....also check hydraulic oil with arms in down position
1 change the engine oil and filter 2 change hydraulic filters 3 run a tank or 2 of fuel through it with the additive and then change the fuel filter. have a spare and change it if it starts to run like crap. My dad and grandpa taught me to keep a fuel filter for every piece of equipment on the farm because it will always plug when you need it most
Keep it for now, you can always sell it. Change all the filters. Put in a fuel additive in to help clean up the fuel. Change the fuel filter again after running one tank of fuel.
hyd.fluid is checked with all cylinders at rest position,if not,when cylds. are lowered , fluid will come back out. (spraying Mrs Stony ) and you dont want her mad !!
Also my suggestion is to use Wix/Napa filters on everything. They are the best by far. Even better that the JD or Cat. I have been using them for 30 years on all my equipment.
Sir, just mho I have been a diesel mechanic since 1995 please change the oil filters hydraulic oil and air filter get a sample of all oils send them to be tested cheap insurance, let the arms down to check hydraulic fluid. You will regret selling it 1000 times over if you can afford to keep it. The reverser is "the shuttle" its what your shifter from forward neutral reverse controls (basically direction) and the trans is just ur gear that moves it, best of luck great video and God bless!
You are living the dream Josh, That was my dream to but time has just about run out for me, I am pushing 80 real hard. I made the mistake of thinking I had plenty of time.
Judging from the 352 comments, if you sell it, they will have you locked up! ;-) Change all the fluids and filters but don't forget the screens in the hydraulic system. Love your style! God Bless.
Make a list of the things you may need it for. House foundation septic tank and drain field new overflow pipe for the pond digging foundation for the barn you will need. Check rental prices and than sell it after all those are done and still will not have that many hours on it. You can never know when it will be needed in an emergency!
I do excavation for a living. No need to drain the hydraulic fluid or fuel. The hydraulic fluid needs to be checked with the front bucket down and I believe the back boom extended and on the ground because with the pistons collapsed it takes less fluid to fill the cylinders abs the fluid level indicator takes into effect the correct position of the cylinders. And it doesn't hurt to change all the filters on the machine. If your in an area where you have winter months check the coolant for its freezing protection. And with how much you would probably use the machine you will Most likely never have any big issues with it other than maybe a hydraulic line breaking.
Change all filters; and new engine oil. If the hydraulic fluid isn’t milky then I’d just Change the filters. Change the transmission filter. These are Good ole machines
One more thing is make sure you re-grease the machine after you have pressure washed it. You want all the water out of the joints where the zerts are otherwise you'll run into problems later on down the road. Keep the machine. Don't regret it as I did after I sold mine.
I wouldn't get rid of it. Home excavation, snow plow, small crane, engine hoist, clearing land, maintaining gravel drive. You could rent it out as well...don't forget to prime fuel filter. Reverser oil use quality gear oil, some say synthetic, some say 80w90. If it smells burnt or dark, I would change it. Should have specs or oil weight to use on dipstick. Been 20 years since I worked on anything like this when I worked pavement and maintenance.
I dug about a 1/4 acre pond with a a 42 HP tractor with a box blade and a pond scoop, Took a while (days) but I got it done. I would have loved to have had a Backhoe.
In my opinion change your filters and engine oil If trans and hyd are nice and clean and no sign of cloudiness or milky I would wait to change trans/hyd oils Watch the dash panel when washing it (all the electrical in there don’t like moisture ) As far as the leaky cylinder I would wait till it’s a major leak It’s a nice unit and will be usefully around the farm but that’s my opinion
$300 fluids and filters . use old fluid for brush burning tires and hydraulics are expense. Seals dry out when not used. Work it for a week spray electrical connections new fluids. Start it monthly and use bucket to backplate your driveway. Put a thumb on backhoe if possible great for leveling . make a hay bale attachment for it.
Josh here is what i would do brother. All filter changes and engine oil change, you can buy test strips for the coolant at any auto parts store there relatively inexpensive and you can use it on all your vehicles and you can get them for both types of the common antifreezes ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. And that will tell you if your antifreeze is good or not. Other than that look for dry rotten hydraulic hoses and you can have your hydraulic fluid sent off and tested and most heavy equipment shops can do it for a fee of course. I'm with you 6 five gallons buckets for hydraulic fluid is expensive. But as with all oils and fluids they go bad with sitting and in use and over time become acidic. Doing the tests will help you determined what money you need to spend. Also i would keep it, it will be very useful around the farm. Both construction and recovery of your equipment.
Hey Bro. Just engine oil and filter is fine, you can change the hydraulic filter if you want to, as for the fuel, that thing can run on cooking oil so don't worry about that at all. If I were you I would keep it, its a tool for your farm, you can get other attachments also. You can also barter with other farmers for stuff you need for the use of your backhoe. Have a backhoe on a farm or ranch is almost a must. Love your videos, super cool. Take care. Hawk out!
LOL,after adding did you check the hydraulic oil level again after you lowered the bucket and rear boom? Will be a tad high.....On the PM's: get a JD manual for the unit and follow the factory recommended service cycles. If you don't want to change the hydraulic oil and reverser oil(both use hygard) pull a sample of each and send out for testing. That will tell you the true condition and if they need changing.
Fluids might not be cheap, but it’s much much cheaper than any possible damage bad fluid can do. Change all fluids and filters so you’ll know for sure that it’s good. If you’re not in need of the money now, keep it. It won’t devalue much in the next year or two. And I’m sure you’ll find it more useful and use it more than you think you would.
My work has a 1978 John Deere 410D but it hasn’t been used in 7 years. I want to get it going to clean things up and push some brush piles, big logs and stumps that the little compact John Deere 4720 can hardly lift or push. I would just do all the maintenance so you know that it’s in good shape. The hydro fluid looks fine but the bucket is supposed to be lowered because now it’s going to show low when your had it raised.
Hi Josh I think the machine should be in the correct position to check the hydraulic oil ,I would trade it in for a 4wd one with a 4in 1 bucket and extending dipper and clear my own ground and do all the groundwork my self on the new house build and then keep it for future projects and maintenance and possibly a bit of hire work to
I would change the filters engine oil, hydronic fluid should be fine. I would keep until after you finish house. Then you could repaint put new stickers and sell for more than it's currently valued at. Which being you got such a good deal would make one heck of a profit on and then put profit back into farm or new equipment.
Ive only got 40 acres of bush(no grass) but my only piece of equipment is an old case backhoe and I have used it for everything from clearing scrub, digging trenches, making access roads lifting and moving logs, firewood, and lifting beams etc when building sheds, moving cars. Sometimes i go a while without needing it but when i do its very handy. I think you could potentially just have it and another tractor for mowing, hay duties and probably not need anything else. After hiring a small machine they are useless toys, bigger(like your jd 310 is generally better)
Do all of the maintenance including the engine oil and filter. Change the fuel and hydraulic filters. Have spare filters in your shop because break downs usually happen at night or on Sundays. Get a copy of the operators manual for the machine to answer most of you questions. Run it for awhile and see if you like it. Remove any rocks from your fields. I bought my TLB in 1984 to put in a septic system. It paid for itself so I kept it. It has since paid for itself every few years though there have been times when it sat for a few years. With a working farm it will save you time and if you are careful with it it can save your back. I'm 67 and I use the loader to lift anything over 100 pounds now. Just aint worth throwing the back out Good Luck, Rick
For those fittings that wont take grease you can always heat them with a handheld propane torch, it will free up the hard grease inside. Just make sure there is no excess grease on the joint that will catch fire. I wouldn't recommend this on ball joints or other joints with rubber boots, unless your very careful. I would change the fuel filter, air filter, hydraulic fluid and filter, oil and filter. Hydraulic fluid is viscous which means absorbs moisture. It wont have the strength or pressure as the new fluid. Also I would get that cylinder fixed sooner than later, 20 oz a year would add up if the leak gets worse over years. Like you said 75$ for 5 gal, you may lose that much in 5 years vs the cost of having new seals put in. Lastly I would keep that machine if it were me, they are around 1000-1200 a week to rent. Hope this helps.
What I do on all new used equipment. Even if the previous owner said they just changed the oil. I'd do it again. But that's just me. This way I know exactly when it was done and at what hrs it was done at. Hydraulic oil doesn't usually try dark so it looks clean for a long time. Even though it's clean the fluid could break down and you not even know it. Also you know it's done right with the proper amounts and quality fluid and filters. Personally I would keep it. Never know when you might need it and this way you don't have to run into town deal with the rental place and if a project takes you 3 weeks to do its ok no rush on time because it's yours. Great video. Great machine. Go run it and play with it make sure it has enough power and it seems reliable.
Hi Josh and mrs Stoney Ridge , Run it 10 minutes after you have topped it up and see if it still clear. If its gone jett black (Full of carbon and bits of seal) or white (being full of water which isn't good) replace it . if its still fairly light coloured Just replace the filter and re check the level. The engine oil is a good colour for a Diesel as they usually and quite normally go jet black. The fuel filter. Diesels usually have a fuel filter with a drain cock (valve) on the bottom of the filter housing or have a separate sediment bowl. Sediment bowls are usually clear so you can see if there is any water content in the fuel. When water goes through the fuel system it will destroy pumps and injectors. The injector has a pin with tapered seat inside and when water goes through the injector it turns to steam and erodes the pin and the seat, fuel doesn't. If it only has a drain cock (Valve) drain it into an old clean jar and see what comes out , What you are seeing is what the filter has stopped. Its normal to see a minimal amount of water which occurs through condensation and especially if its been filled from farm tanks that don't get filled often.. The less the better. Replace the filter anyhow even if its good Injectors and pumps are expensive. Filters are cheaper. Price them and see. Everything you need to know is usually on those labels. Check the fan belt for cracks and wear. Adjust the brakes if necessary. Don't wipe the stickers over with solvent use detergent as fuel and solvents take the ink off. Have a look on the label for the oil levels and where the fill plugs are . The dipstick by the bottom of the dash may not include the diff oil. It may be separate with a plug half way up the housing. Also never pressure was a radiator as you will end up blowing the cooling fins off it. It looked clean in the engine bay so thats usually a good sign that its been looked after.
I have watched a lot of your videos where you service your equipment. You have commented that you find it hard to pour oils out of 5 gallon pails. Most major brands including Valvoline now put diesel oils and hydraulic oil in 2 and a half gallon jugs. Much easier to pour out of.
More expensive to buy in smaller containers...if I had my options I'd buy in 55 gal drums and pump from the drum. Servicing all this equipment gets expensive
You can certainly do that. Some distributors will give or loan you pumps if you buy drums. If you have a Napa store nearby, they have 15w40 and several other products in drums might save you some money. All of those oils are made by Valvoline except hydraulic oil.
Josh you have more than low & High that shifter is a regular 4 Speed transmission H pattern. The button on it acts like a clutch so you can shift it on the go..
I'm a DIY farmer like you and this is what I have learned with these machines. 4wd is almost a must. These machines are HEAVY. You can get them out using a combination of the hoe and loader but with a 4wd unit, its a lot less likely. People will argue till they are blue in the face that 2wd is okay but getting a 13k lb tractor out of mud isn't fun. I'd agree with your idea of selling it and renting a machine when its time. We rent a Kubota KX71-3 with the hydro thumb for $330/day. A farmer down the street has a Ford TBL 555C with the extend-a-hoe if need be. Like most of the people that own these, it just sits until he needs it for 3 hours out of the year. Its 15k lbs and just too big/heavy even for his land. To me, I'd rather put the $10-15,000 into attachments and equipment I'd use daily.
If you have a dollar general. A product called The Works, for $1 a bottle, is amazing use it all the time for cleaning equipment at full strength. Much cheaper than the super clean.
I would change all the fluids and filters + antifreeze in radiator. Check the hydraulics with the cylinders retracted not extended. Change the fuel filters + keep extra fuel filters. Keep it.
Don’t sell the backhoe! There are so many uses and projects you will do where it will make life 1000% easier! I just wish I had a big one like you. I have a smaller kubota, it’s a beast but it has its limits.
I vote keep it Change all your filters Add fuel additive and run it Knowing you u will find a project to make use of it even pushing snow backdragging your driveway pot holes etc Very useful piece of equipment especially if you have low dollars invested
Change out the oil and oil filter. I'd burn through the fuel first, once you have clean fuel in it then change the filter. I would also change out the hydraulic fluid and filters on it. Oil (engine or hydraulic) absorbs moisture over time and can cause damage.
Get all the filters. Only change the Engine oil and filter, antifreeze and Hydraulic Fluid because you don't know when it was last done. Also change out the fuel filter. Keep a spare fuel filter.
Hydraulic fluid and anti freeze is only changed every 4000 or more hours and are both in sealed systems unlike oil that is prone to fuel blowby and moisture. He should check am the levels in the wheel hubs in the center of the rim. They are either loosened with an Allen key or a 1/2" wratchet end. The hole should be checked at the 3 or 9 o'clock position and filled with 90 weight gear oil.
@@blindabinda1234 that John Deere is between 1991 and 1997 so 21 to 27 years old. It should be over or past the 4000 hour service. Antifreeze has a life span of only 3 to 7 years. When it goes bad you can take a multimeter and actually get a Voltage reading on it. Engine oil can be tested to see if it is still good but it won't hurt to just change it you and do that every 250 hours of use. Hydraulic Fluid you have no idea what has been used hydraulic attachment wise. So Changing it out and having it analyzed by a lab may give you a heads up on soon to be coming Maintenance issues from hydraulic lines breaking down to mechanical failure coming up.
I would repair the leaking cylinder. However, would be curious if the backhoe arm and bucket slowly lose pressure when loaded. Some Google searches and some discussions with some Commercial Deere Techs will probably determine (most likely problem) how to repair the cylinder (I would guess seals). I hate leaking hydraulics because things move at the worst times. Replace the zerks that won’t take grease. Get the old angle grinder out and start grinding out the rust and replacing with primer or maybe bed liner coating around the work station. You have to keep your backhoe, it can do all kinds of things on your farm, including pull your other Deere out, if she gets stuck. Second best piece of equipment on the farm. She looks great!
I agree with Don change all your fluids and filters.
Change all filters and engine oil, filters are cheap. I have the JD 410G and filters are a cheap investment. Orileys auto parts has oil that will cross with JD OIL and it’s a lot cheaper. Cylinders are easy to rebuild and parts can be sourced a lot cheaper than buying from the Dealer. Shoot me a pm if you need a link.
Definitely keep it. You’ll wish you had it to fix culvert pipes, drainage ditches, or even do a little forestry work with it. Awesome piece of equipment
Hi Josh,
I ran a 310D, 4X4 full cab, in the early 90's in Colorado. That is a good machine, reliable, everyday runner. Keep the machine, you have a house to build, farm to build up, sheds to build, ditches to dig and grade and stumps to dig. You will find many uses for the machine on the farm.
If you plan on doing the foundations, septic tank, power line trenching and whatever else when you build your house then keep the backhoe. At least until you finish the house and then decide if you want to sell it. That way you don't have to be rushed with rental equipment trying to complete your tasks. ~Mike~
I like that you remembered to grease the machine, but perhaps it would be a better idea to grease after pressure washing to force out any water in the bearings
Jacob Byrkit okbjnjnn
When u need it u need it an as soon as you get rid of it ull wish you didn’t
You will use it more than you think. I would service it and keep it.
I would agree
That's a great piece of equipment for a farm or ranch. The possibilities are endless. After clean up put it the shed until needed. The key is keep under cover out of the weather.
Josh, I have a small farm in Virginia and run an old John Deere 510B. I can't live without it. I have John Deere 2955 4W tractor with a loader, but that loader can't compare to the backhoe loader. If you have to fell trees or do any digging at all, the backhoe will become priceless. Regarding oil changes. The engine oil is a must every 600 hours or annually. Hydraulic fluid can be tested. Also, if you rebuild cylinders or replace hoses, you'll likely be replacing older hydraulic fluid with new over a few years.
Josh, you should grease AFTER pressure washing to push the water out of the joints. Wow that cleaned up real good!
Pressure washing a dirty vehicle like that is so satisfying! Change all fluids and filters!
I agree....nothing like making something shine again!
I'm not an expert but I don't think you're supposed to check the Hydraulic fluid with all your Hydraulics extended.
Seems to me if I had a working farm a backhoe would be priceless. If it's not eating anything it would not go anywhere. It's a machine you will need in the future when you start building your house.
JK You are 100% correct I run backhoes for a living
Keep it it will come in handy for a lot of farm jobs
Definitely keep it looks like a very solid machine that comes in handy for random jobs. Might be a good idea to change everything on it because you do not know when it was last done that way you know where you are at with the machine
Keep that thing! You definitely need it in the future for lots of things with all the plans you have for the farm. Keep it.
Mrs Stoney ridge is a good helper
One thing most haven't mentioned is a Parts Manual and/ or Operators on the Equipment you have they help answer a lot of the questions you have and give some very good info that you will need in both keeping as well as selling, usually can find them on Ebay fairly cheap.
Probably already been said, but I believe hydraulic fluid is checked with all cylinders retracted. If they were all extended, then you filled, then retracted everything, you would have an overflow issue. And I would recommend as I did when I bought my tractor, just changed all the fluids and filters, that way you know they are good.
Josh when driving the backhoe around you should have the backhoe folded all the way with the bucket tucked and backhoe locked in place the bucket could contact the ground only time you can leave backhoe like you have it is while digging making this suggestion from experience running backhoe loaders
From what I can see that is a high serial number 310d. Excellent machine. I have one myself with close to 10000 hrs on it. You have several fluids to check. One of course is the hyd oil. Next is a very important one which is reverser oil. It is the lower dip stick in front of the steering wheel. A lot of people forget. It needs to be check with engine running. You probably need to change it. It uses J20C approved TDH oil. It takes care of the torque converter and wet clutches in the reverser. Also the transmission dip stick is at your feet when sitting in the seat. It also uses J20C oil. There are grease fittings on top of the axle at the tires need to be greased every oil change.
dont add hydraulic fluid to it, need to lower the front bucket onto the ground with the bucket flat, then raise the backhoe boom up, stick in and bucket curled, thats the proper way to have the machine parked to check the fluid. Id change the oil and oil filter, along with the fuel filter and call it good
very good advice
Listen to Chris....listen very well!
Yes change all of the fluids if your hrs on the machine , check manual for service requirements
If you are going to build a new home the backhoe is an essential piece of equipment for digging and material movement. Keep it and you can use it and still sell it for very little difference in what it is worth now. JD's hold there values well!
To all the commenters saying to draw in all cylinders, these are double pressure , push both ways. So moving the cylinder does not change the amount of fluid in it.
Josh, As pretty much everyone else has said,unless you got to the point where you simply could not operate the backhoe, you should keep it. If you feel you got a great deal on it,(along with the compacts you bought in package deal) you will always feel like it is a small cost to have such a versatile mule to have at your disposal for many varied farm cleanup jobs. JMO.
The problem is keeping up another piece of equipment and repairing it when it breaks....I have enough time invested in fixing what I have now.....my dad told me this "You are building yourself a monster!"
Keep the machine it’s paid for and you know what you have is solid.
Maintenance Specialist here, 25 years experience: Change all filters, change engine oil. Flush coolant and refill. It is not necessary to change the hydraulic fluid unless it's contaminated. There might be a filter screen in the diesel lift pump if it has one. Keep a couple of spare fuel filters on hand. Change the fan belt. Check the radiator hoses and replace the radiator cap. Blow out the radiator with compressed air. Check for chaffed spots on the hydraulic hoses, address accordingly. You should be all set! That weeping outrigger cylinder is no big deal, but it's not hard or expensive to rebuild if you need to.
So nice to know something of a HUGE machine like this !!! I would love to own one of these , for these 5 acres !
Also find the race track for it that tells you your lubrication intervals! When and where to great and change filters!!! Very nice piece of equipment!
Josh I grew up a agriculture diesel mechanic and worked on hundreds of back hoes. A back hoe is like a boat the 2 best days of owning one is the day you buy it and the day you sell it. They are high maintenance if you are not going to use it often. You are suppose to check the hydraulic oil with the bucket down not up that is why it read low. If you decide to keep it change all the oils and filters (pumps are expensive to rebuild) don't worry about the fuel it will burn out eventually. Rebuilding rams and changing lines can run lots of money and they break when you are using them not when it is convenient to change and usualy pump out most of the oil in the process. Renting is a better idea.
my 2 cents: The oil doesn't need changed just because it sat because the oil looks good. The filter does. The hydraulic filter needs changed and then topped up to standard level. The anti-freeze needs changed. The fuel filter needs changed and get two so after it runs a few hrs change the fuel filter again. I hear you say maintaining this one. If you go in and out smoothly on the hydraulic controls and never snapping them sharply or running the bucket up and down and side to side smoothly without stopping suddenly I see no maintenance other than fuel and oil. Remove the outrigger end plate and change out the shaft seal on the leaking outrigger. I see no maintenance for two years on this low hr machine except fuel and filters after you do the first preventive maintenance. As much as you use this then having to do anything will depend if you go down to the nieghbors and dig a 1/4 mile 6ft ditch then maintenance will start. Depending on use. You have no running savvy on how to smoothly control the hydraulics, so you will overcontrol, instead of being smooth. practise smooth then the seals and cylinder cups will last. I forgot something. On the hydraulic pump you have a suction strainer and an outlet filter. Sometimes the suction strainer gets plugged up. You have to clean it with degreaser, like acetone, or brake cleaner.
Algae in Diesel. Usually when too much water content in fuel. Usually draining bottom of tank of water alleviates much of this. You can also use HEET in diesel to help remove water.
Here is a big tip... Net search for the Manual for your tractor... It will give you the intervals for changing and maintaining fluids..
What I really like about your videos besides the great content is the fact you use a mic
Check all hydraulic fluids and change filters for safety purposes. Keep it for help around. Don't ever try to run out of fluids because u will have to reblead everything that was blead. That's my opinion I have worked around machines my whole life so try it if u want. That's my advice. Appreciate everything!!
when in doubt CHANGE CHANGE CHANGE EVERYTHING
I think with the size of your farm that backhoe will become invaluable, defnitely keep it!
Change all fluids and filters, leave the diesel alone but change the fuel filter. You will not regret keeping it, there will be many new uses for it you wouldn’t have known about if you would have sold it. Keep up the great videos, I enjoy your content!
HI Josh. I’d change engine oil and all filters. As for hydraulic fluid work the machine if anything leaks this can be fixed then change fluid after running it for a while. As for keeping it. It’s a no brainier - keep it it’s a very handy machine. 👍🏻
Thanks Simon...I'm really on the fence about selling it..it's very nice
Stoney Ridge Farmer - hi Josh. Thanks for your reply. Ummm tricky one as it’s a handy machine but if you feel you won’t get any use from it and cheaper to rent etc then it’s a sell and put the money back into the farm. But if you can use it for a year or so mending the stream bridges that got washed out etc then sell it at least you get some kind of benefit from having it. Tough call mate.
Can’t wait to stay at the Stoney Ridge Farm!!! 🤗
With hydraulic oil you need to have the boom buttoned up and the bucket down and warm it up before you check it because hydraulic oil expands when warm
Thanks for the tip
Im sure someone already said it. Don't check hyd oil with cylinders extended and warm. Check when all compressed and cold. I would also put new antifreeze in because its cheap. Good luck with whatever you do
1) I'd change the engine oil and filter (along with a typical full service)
2) Change the fuel filter, top the fuel off with fresh diesel and put the additive in it. At about a 1/4 tank, fill it back up with fresh and change the filter again with more additive. If it's running fine, move on to regular service intervals.
3) Leave the hydraulic oil alone and probably change the filter- run it for about 25hrs and check the filter, if its nasty, change the hydraulic oil.
4) And as you can financially, change/flush the hydraulic oil, transmission, etc to make it fresh and as close to brand new as possible!
Some of it really depends on if you plan to keep it.....
A bit of backhoe nomenclature. The arm that attaches to the tractor is the boom. The arm that attaches to the boom is the dipper. Of course, the bucket attaches to the dipper. The two stabilizers are called the outriggers. This is important when you are telling the operator what to do. Raise the boom, lower the boom. Extend the dipper, retract the dipper.
Unless hydraulic fluid has been overheated or is visibly dirty, it seldom needs to be changed. You can take a sample and have it checked. Ask your dealer about oil analysis.
Diesel fuel gels when the temperature drops below the gel point. Diesel fuel contains paraffin wax. When it gets cold, the paraffin drops out of solution and causes the gel. Gelling is more of a problem when equipment sits for a while. Diesel fuel supplements are available to prevent gelling and clean your injectors. I always use them.
I would keep it. Service it out and use it. It is very handy to have on the farm and you will use it more than you think.
My advice as a long in the tooth, and sore in the back diesel mechanic. Change all the filters, and engine oil. Take a sample of the hydraulic oil, and the reverser oil, and send them in for analysis, and only change it if there is contamination. The cost of a John Deere oil analysis, is about the same as a gallon of HyGuard.
To simplify what the reverser is, think of it as an automatic transmission, with a single forward and single reverse clutch pack.
This machine has deprecated about as much as it will, Use it a year or two, then sell it.
Backhoes are the most versatile machines on the farm. Had old wore out one years ago and sold it later and was lost without it. Since purchased a good used JD410D. Use it all the time. Will not sell this one.
Change all the filters and all fluids. get that fuel drained and start fresh if you plan on keeping it.
That means air filter tooooo.
I always like to start with a clean slate
Mate definitely change all oils and filters...hydraulic oil is very problematic with taking on moisture.....also check hydraulic oil with arms in down position
Excellent video Josh thanks 🙏 George /Uk
1 change the engine oil and filter
2 change hydraulic filters
3 run a tank or 2 of fuel through it with the additive and then change the fuel filter. have a spare and change it if it starts to run like crap. My dad and grandpa taught me to keep a fuel filter for every piece of equipment on the farm because it will always plug when you need it most
Keep it for now, you can always sell it. Change all the filters. Put in a fuel additive in to help clean up the fuel. Change the fuel filter again after running one tank of fuel.
hyd.fluid is checked with all cylinders at rest position,if not,when cylds. are lowered , fluid will come back out. (spraying Mrs Stony ) and you dont want her mad !!
Perfect for these rainy days were getting here in upstate SC, Mud everywhere!!! My poor cabin had a river flowing under it hah
Easy answer. Change ALL fluids. Replace ALL filters.
Also my suggestion is to use Wix/Napa filters on everything. They are the best by far. Even better that the JD or Cat. I have been using them for 30 years on all my equipment.
Sir, just mho I have been a diesel mechanic since 1995 please change the oil filters hydraulic oil and air filter get a sample of all oils send them to be tested cheap insurance, let the arms down to check hydraulic fluid. You will regret selling it 1000 times over if you can afford to keep it. The reverser is "the shuttle" its what your shifter from forward neutral reverse controls (basically direction) and the trans is just ur gear that moves it, best of luck great video and God bless!
You are living the dream Josh, That was my dream to but time has just about run out for me, I am pushing 80 real hard. I made the mistake of thinking I had plenty of time.
Sneaks up on ya don't it.....it's sneaking up on me! I just hope to be healthy at 80
I dont even like farming, but josh makes it fun an interesting i now want chicken to get eggs everyday and harvest to fill my freezer!👍
Keep it, you will always need one around the farm. Trust Me.
Judging from the 352 comments, if you sell it, they will have you locked up! ;-) Change all the fluids and filters but don't forget the screens in the hydraulic system. Love your style! God Bless.
Make a list of the things you may need it for. House foundation septic tank and drain field new overflow pipe for the pond digging foundation for the barn you will need. Check rental prices and than sell it after all those are done and still will not have that many hours on it. You can never know when it will be needed in an emergency!
I do excavation for a living. No need to drain the hydraulic fluid or fuel. The hydraulic fluid needs to be checked with the front bucket down and I believe the back boom extended and on the ground because with the pistons collapsed it takes less fluid to fill the cylinders abs the fluid level indicator takes into effect the correct position of the cylinders. And it doesn't hurt to change all the filters on the machine. If your in an area where you have winter months check the coolant for its freezing protection. And with how much you would probably use the machine you will Most likely never have any big issues with it other than maybe a hydraulic line breaking.
I’d keep it on the farm we had a backhoe and we thought we would be ok letting it go but once we did we’ve regretted it every since
Change all filters; and new engine oil. If the hydraulic fluid isn’t milky then I’d just
Change the filters.
Change the transmission filter. These are
Good ole machines
One more thing is make sure you re-grease the machine after you have pressure washed it. You want all the water out of the joints where the zerts are otherwise you'll run into problems later on down the road. Keep the machine. Don't regret it as I did after I sold mine.
I wouldn't get rid of it. Home excavation, snow plow, small crane, engine hoist, clearing land, maintaining gravel drive. You could rent it out as well...don't forget to prime fuel filter. Reverser oil use quality gear oil, some say synthetic, some say 80w90. If it smells burnt or dark, I would change it. Should have specs or oil weight to use on dipstick. Been 20 years since I worked on anything like this when I worked pavement and maintenance.
I dug about a 1/4 acre pond with a a 42 HP tractor with a box blade and a pond scoop, Took a while (days) but I got it done. I would have loved to have had a Backhoe.
In my opinion change your filters and engine oil If trans and hyd are nice and clean and no sign of cloudiness or milky I would wait to change trans/hyd oils Watch the dash panel when washing it (all the electrical in there don’t like moisture )
As far as the leaky cylinder I would wait till it’s a major leak
It’s a nice unit and will be usefully around the farm but that’s my opinion
Keep it! You’ll always fine things around the farm to do with it! I say it’s a keeper
You should keep it. Hard to find one that has not been abused.
$300 fluids and filters . use old fluid for brush burning tires and hydraulics are expense. Seals dry out when not used. Work it for a week spray electrical connections new fluids. Start it monthly and use bucket to backplate your driveway. Put a thumb on backhoe if possible great for leveling . make a hay bale attachment for it.
Josh here is what i would do brother. All filter changes and engine oil change, you can buy test strips for the coolant at any auto parts store there relatively inexpensive and you can use it on all your vehicles and you can get them for both types of the common antifreezes ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. And that will tell you if your antifreeze is good or not. Other than that look for dry rotten hydraulic hoses and you can have your hydraulic fluid sent off and tested and most heavy equipment shops can do it for a fee of course. I'm with you 6 five gallons buckets for hydraulic fluid is expensive. But as with all oils and fluids they go bad with sitting and in use and over time become acidic. Doing the tests will help you determined what money you need to spend. Also i would keep it, it will be very useful around the farm. Both construction and recovery of your equipment.
Thanks Paul!
Own a subcompact wish i had backhoe attachment.its a keeper to me.change fluids relube after pressure wash though
Hey Bro. Just engine oil and filter is fine, you can change the hydraulic filter if you want to, as for the fuel, that thing can run on cooking oil so don't worry about that at all. If I were you I would keep it, its a tool for your farm, you can get other attachments also. You can also barter with other farmers for stuff you need for the use of your backhoe. Have a backhoe on a farm or ranch is almost a must. Love your videos, super cool. Take care. Hawk out!
With a new set looks like it will be nice. I would keep it wished I had one all of times. God bless you'll.
LOL,after adding did you check the hydraulic oil level again after you lowered the bucket and rear boom? Will be a tad high.....On the PM's: get a JD manual for the unit and follow the factory recommended service cycles. If you don't want to change the hydraulic oil and reverser oil(both use hygard) pull a sample of each and send out for testing. That will tell you the true condition and if they need changing.
Fluids might not be cheap, but it’s much much cheaper than any possible damage bad fluid can do. Change all fluids and filters so you’ll know for sure that it’s good. If you’re not in need of the money now, keep it. It won’t devalue much in the next year or two. And I’m sure you’ll find it more useful and use it more than you think you would.
Agreed
My work has a 1978 John Deere 410D but it hasn’t been used in 7 years. I want to get it going to clean things up and push some brush piles, big logs and stumps that the little compact John Deere 4720 can hardly lift or push.
I would just do all the maintenance so you know that it’s in good shape. The hydro fluid looks fine but the bucket is supposed to be lowered because now it’s going to show low when your had it raised.
Hi Josh I think the machine should be in the correct position to check the hydraulic oil ,I would trade it in for a 4wd one with a 4in 1 bucket and extending dipper and clear my own ground and do all the groundwork my self on the new house build and then keep it for future projects and maintenance and possibly a bit of hire work to
I would change the filters engine oil, hydronic fluid should be fine. I would keep until after you finish house. Then you could repaint put new stickers and sell for more than it's currently valued at. Which being you got such a good deal would make one heck of a profit on and then put profit back into farm or new equipment.
I hope to make enough profit to put some money in the bank and rent what I need in the future
Ive only got 40 acres of bush(no grass) but my only piece of equipment is an old case backhoe and I have used it for everything from clearing scrub, digging trenches, making access roads lifting and moving logs, firewood, and lifting beams etc when building sheds, moving cars. Sometimes i go a while without needing it but when i do its very handy. I think you could potentially just have it and another tractor for mowing, hay duties and probably not need anything else. After hiring a small machine they are useless toys, bigger(like your jd 310 is generally better)
Do all of the maintenance including the engine oil and filter. Change the fuel and hydraulic filters. Have spare filters in your shop because break downs usually happen at night or on Sundays. Get a copy of the operators manual for the machine to answer most of you questions. Run it for awhile and see if you like it. Remove any rocks from your fields.
I bought my TLB in 1984 to put in a septic system. It paid for itself so I kept it. It has since paid for itself every few years though there have been times when it sat for a few years. With a working farm it will save you time and if you are careful with it it can save your back. I'm 67 and I use the loader to lift anything over 100 pounds now. Just aint worth throwing the back out Good Luck, Rick
For those fittings that wont take grease you can always heat them with a handheld propane torch, it will free up the hard grease inside. Just make sure there is no excess grease on the joint that will catch fire. I wouldn't recommend this on ball joints or other joints with rubber boots, unless your very careful. I would change the fuel filter, air filter, hydraulic fluid and filter, oil and filter. Hydraulic fluid is viscous which means absorbs moisture. It wont have the strength or pressure as the new fluid. Also I would get that cylinder fixed sooner than later, 20 oz a year would add up if the leak gets worse over years. Like you said 75$ for 5 gal, you may lose that much in 5 years vs the cost of having new seals put in. Lastly I would keep that machine if it were me, they are around 1000-1200 a week to rent. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the tip!
Backhoe sounds real good.
Thanks David...as for taxes ...we get taxed on everything known to man...even our dogs!!!!
What I do on all new used equipment. Even if the previous owner said they just changed the oil. I'd do it again. But that's just me. This way I know exactly when it was done and at what hrs it was done at. Hydraulic oil doesn't usually try dark so it looks clean for a long time. Even though it's clean the fluid could break down and you not even know it. Also you know it's done right with the proper amounts and quality fluid and filters. Personally I would keep it. Never know when you might need it and this way you don't have to run into town deal with the rental place and if a project takes you 3 weeks to do its ok no rush on time because it's yours. Great video. Great machine. Go run it and play with it make sure it has enough power and it seems reliable.
Remember to make sure it's in the right position when checking the hydraulic oil
Hi Josh and mrs Stoney Ridge , Run it 10 minutes after you have topped it up and see if it still clear. If its gone jett black (Full of carbon and bits of seal) or white (being full of water which isn't good) replace it . if its still fairly light coloured Just replace the filter and re check the level. The engine oil is a good colour for a Diesel as they usually and quite normally go jet black. The fuel filter. Diesels usually have a fuel filter with a drain cock (valve) on the bottom of the filter housing or have a separate sediment bowl. Sediment bowls are usually clear so you can see if there is any water content in the fuel. When water goes through the fuel system it will destroy pumps and injectors. The injector has a pin with tapered seat inside and when water goes through the injector it turns to steam and erodes the pin and the seat, fuel doesn't. If it only has a drain cock (Valve) drain it into an old clean jar and see what comes out , What you are seeing is what the filter has stopped. Its normal to see a minimal amount of water which occurs through condensation and especially if its been filled from farm tanks that don't get filled often.. The less the better. Replace the filter anyhow even if its good Injectors and pumps are expensive. Filters are cheaper. Price them and see. Everything you need to know is usually on those labels. Check the fan belt for cracks and wear. Adjust the brakes if necessary. Don't wipe the stickers over with solvent use detergent as fuel and solvents take the ink off. Have a look on the label for the oil levels and where the fill plugs are . The dipstick by the bottom of the dash may not include the diff oil. It may be separate with a plug half way up the housing. Also never pressure was a radiator as you will end up blowing the cooling fins off it. It looked clean in the engine bay so thats usually a good sign that its been looked after.
I think you should keep it because it would be really handy on your property
I have watched a lot of your videos where you service your equipment. You have commented that you find it hard to pour oils out of 5 gallon pails. Most major brands including Valvoline now put diesel oils and hydraulic oil in 2 and a half gallon jugs. Much easier to pour out of.
More expensive to buy in smaller containers...if I had my options I'd buy in 55 gal drums and pump from the drum. Servicing all this equipment gets expensive
You can certainly do that. Some distributors will give or loan you pumps if you buy drums. If you have a Napa store nearby, they have 15w40 and several other products in drums might save you some money. All of those oils are made by Valvoline except hydraulic oil.
Josh you have more than low & High that shifter is a regular 4 Speed transmission H pattern. The button on it acts like a clutch so you can shift it on the go..
If I was you I would keep it, And keep up the great work and great videos
I'm a DIY farmer like you and this is what I have learned with these machines. 4wd is almost a must. These machines are HEAVY. You can get them out using a combination of the hoe and loader but with a 4wd unit, its a lot less likely. People will argue till they are blue in the face that 2wd is okay but getting a 13k lb tractor out of mud isn't fun. I'd agree with your idea of selling it and renting a machine when its time. We rent a Kubota KX71-3 with the hydro thumb for $330/day. A farmer down the street has a Ford TBL 555C with the extend-a-hoe if need be. Like most of the people that own these, it just sits until he needs it for 3 hours out of the year. Its 15k lbs and just too big/heavy even for his land. To me, I'd rather put the $10-15,000 into attachments and equipment I'd use daily.
You check hyd. fluid with all cylinders pulled in
If you have a dollar general. A product called The Works, for $1 a bottle, is amazing use it all the time for cleaning equipment at full strength. Much cheaper than the super clean.
Keep it man trust me it will come in handy one day your better off keeping it
I would change all the fluids and filters + antifreeze in radiator. Check the hydraulics with the cylinders retracted not extended. Change the fuel filters + keep extra fuel filters. Keep it.
Don’t sell the backhoe! There are so many uses and projects you will do where it will make life 1000% easier! I just wish I had a big one like you. I have a smaller kubota, it’s a beast but it has its limits.
I vote keep it Change all your filters Add fuel additive and run it Knowing you u will find a project to make use of it even pushing snow backdragging your driveway pot holes etc Very useful piece of equipment especially if you have low dollars invested
Thanks larry!
Change out the oil and oil filter. I'd burn through the fuel first, once you have clean fuel in it then change the filter. I would also change out the hydraulic fluid and filters on it. Oil (engine or hydraulic) absorbs moisture over time and can cause damage.