General Operations
SIDE SLOPE EXCAVATING OR TRENCHING
Dig with the backhoe uphill whenever possible.
Level the backhoe on slopes with the stabilizers to dig
plumb trenches, or use the backhoe or loader to cut a level
slot for the uphill wheel and stabilizer. Pile the spoil from the
slot on the low side.
When on the side of a steep slope, cut a level surface along
the uphill side of the trench with the loader.
Pile the spoil of the cut downhill. When digging, pile the spoil
of the trench uphill.
Dig field trenched progressively. As soon as one trench is
completed, have the workmen lay the tile. Start the next
trench, using the spoil to fill the previous trench.
MISCELLANEOUS
When finishing straight walls or bellholes in sandy soil, use
a platform under the rear tires and the stabilizers. The plat-
form distributes the load over a larger area and lessons the
possibility of a cave-in. The platform also tends to keep the
unit from creeping rearward if hard digging is encountered.
FINISHING STRAIGHT WALLS
Finish the far wall by crowding 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. Keep 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 or
mainframe.
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