Does anyone know where the center of gravity is for the average backhoe with unloaded FEL just off the ground and backhoe in transport position? I have not found a whole lot of detail on where the CoG is. Some say it is about at crank level, PTO output, of just above transaxle but that seems more likely for a tractor without a backhoe. My particular machine is a 580K, non e-hoe, 4 in 1 bucket, cab, 4x4. I suspect the CoG must be a little above the floor pan level. All of the chassis and powertrain components seem to be pretty low, but the backhoe assembly is high and must raise it a bit. I'm very cautious about traversing slopes when I can't back up them (or avoid them altogether), and am curious where the CoG is for this machine.
can swing backhoe for a counter balance if in a tight spot
Yeah that makes sense, just curious where the COG might be and or what are generally angles that are dangerous.
Most of the OP manuals cover the allowable slope driving... I think... seem to remember reading a few now and then.
Center of gravity isn't really helpful to be honest. It's an idealized point but in a practical application there are far more variables that need to be taken into account than that point. A tires air pressure, a pothole, or the operators inputs have far more impact. If you can't back up them in 4wd it's far to steep to drive across.
The only relative center of gravity that matters is the one in your rear end if it feels scary its probably pushing it and most guys with minimal experience feel a machine is way closer to flipping long before they are close
I honestly get really nervous on slopes or ground with a lot of potholes with my backhoe. I am notorious for driving around with the stabilizers an inch off the ground if I think there is even a remote chance of tipping it.
Absolutely Redneckracin. 100% agreement , especially with big tires that compress, rebound, sidewall deflection, and so on. I was just curious if there is a general location of it on some machines. I haven't seen it in my manual. I've backed up far steeper angles than I would feel is appropriate to go across sideways, but I'm also cautious and conservative.I would imagine that the length of the machine and loader/backhoe attachments are vastly more stable going up a hill than driving across. Aziron, you might be right there, but regardless of experience (or the experience of rolling it), it is something of curiosity. Andy, I am with you there. I am very cautious to not push it but that goes back to my question.
Most machines have a center of gravity a bout even with just under the floor board some will be higher but it varies depending on options and configurations
Thanks Az. That's kind of what I thought from looking at the major component locations in the machine, maybe a bit higher with the backhoe in transport position.