HST+ gear setting when using BH77 backhoe

[NWAZL3560]

I have been using my BH77 backhoe on my new Grand L3560 for over a week now. I haven't found a thread and don't see in the manual whether it makes a difference what gear the HST+ transmission is when I'm using the backhoe. I've had it in Neutral, Mid, Low and haven't noticed any difference in the backhoe operation.

I have the parking brake on, loader bucket down and the RPM's around 1800-2000 rpm when operating the backhoe.

Is there an HST+ gear setting that's best when using the backhoe?

 

[MattN03]

I'm usually in low on my B3200, but I don't think it matters.

 

[dirtydeed]

i thought it made a difference on my old BX23. That machines seemed to make a bit more whine when using the backhoe in gear so I generally kept it in neutral.

I typically use neutral on the new machine as well (likely out of habit). It's also much easier to re-position the machine using the hoe while in neutral (comes in real handy while trenching). If you use neutral, just be careful letting the machine back down on it's wheels while on a slope (BTDT).

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

The reason it doesn't matter is the HST is before the Range selector.
No matter what range it's in the HST is still spinning right along.

 

[Tunaslayer]

I like to leave it in gear. It keeps you from rolling around, and if you have the cruise control, you can move forward from the backhoe seat using the cruise lever. It is an issue if you need to back up at all.


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[bikerdib]

If I'm digging or other use of the backhoe in one spot and don't need to move then I just leave it in whatever range I was in when moving the tractor into position. If I will need to move the tractor during backhoe operation I place it in neutral so I can use the BH to push or pull the tractor around. I always did this when using large Case dedicated backhoes too. I've never noticed any difference in backhoe operation no matter what range the trans is in.

 

[Lencho]

Wolfman is right (as usual). It is worth looking at the workshop manual to see how the components work together. I did not realize the hydro unit was separate from the range selection and PTO gears. These bolt on to the hydro on my older unit. I guess that carried on? I love this forum for the experience and sound advice.

 

[bikerdib]

It DOESN'T matter what range it is in as to the operation of the BH but just remember, if you ever try to push or pull with the backhoe in order to reposition the tractor, it must be in neutral otherwise the wheels will resist rolling.