I'm glad you pointed out that with common sense and a little finesse that the machine will perform well and last a long time. Many people just don't understand how to use a machine without beating it up, and many never will. Nice video!
I am 68 years old. It is funny how as you age you get less worried what others think, lol. I agree with you completely. These machines cost what they cost because they aren't made for the work that a machine that costs 10 times their cost can do. They are very powerful machines and need to be run by someone that is not in a hurry. I bought a Betsco in February, because they were available, no wait time and I wanted one badly. I started burning wood this winter and needed to build roads in my woodlot, dig the trench for the underground pipe for the outdoor boiler, build a woodshed foundation, and I use it with the thumb to pick up logs so I can block them up without bending over. I am going to use it this fall to clear the pasture pines out of a field that I bush hog to make it easier to mow. I was told by a guy that owns a compact tractor with a backhoe on it that I wouldn't be able to dig my trench with my little backhoe and I could borrow his tractor to do it with. He was wrong. I dug up rocks that were at least 3 times the size of the bucket and they were buried in hard clay. I could go on and on about what they can do. You are definitely right, they are stronger than the materials they are built with, so you have to be careful. They certainly beat paying rent and having to schedule times to use. I just do the jobs I want to when I want. The rent for a machine to do the amount of work I have done so far would be more than what I spent to buy the digger and I still have a lot more to do with it.
@@cedricsimmons2033 I have a central boiler 560 titanium. I got my pipe from outdoor boilers. Hasn't been very cold yet, but it doesn't seem to lose much heat. Really happy with the boiler.
Amazing what 5 years of experience and common sense can do to educate a future owner. Thanks for another person willing to make a honest video opinion.
My wife wants me to redo our French drains. But I'm tired of renting equipment. She told me to go by this and she'll right the check. Thank you for showing it in use.
What a lucky guy! I wish someone would insist that I buy one and offer to write the check, LOL. But it looks like I have to take matters into my own hands 🙄
I am a one percenter. Thanks for the tip about a culvert drain. Learned long ago try not to break the machine! Smooth and easy. Something goes wrong, got to fix it right away before it gets serious.
I am one of the 1% that did not know about running your drain off the side. Makes sense. Thanks. I’ve wanted one of those but really don’t have a use for it. Maybe some day I’ll buy some land and need one. Thanks for your knowledge.
Your the man. You told it like it is. Don't have crazy expectations out of a 3500.00 machine. I am trying to look for one of these now. I wish someone or some manufacturer did a comparison video of all the companies that make a towable trencher or excavator. This would help all of us trying to decide which company to choose if they compared them all side by side.
@@coty397 awesome. Thanks. I wish I could take advantage. I have been spending money on fixing up my mothers laundry room. I hope it is on sale in the summertime when I am going to need it. Thank you again. Good luck on your travels.
I couldn’t agree with you more. The only issues I’ve experienced with the HFT were user-inflicted. In my case, damage was done pulling a 2800 lb boulder out of the ground, and I knew better. This is a marvelous little machine.
@@n1ksf Yeah. That thing was pretty huge. It’s still sitting where I managed to push it. It’s a natural stone bench now. I tell folks it’s my HFT trophy.
@Shawne Baines yeah, I laugh at all the naysayers. It's many times more powerful than you and me together, that's how I look at it. With the huge boulders here, I bump and move them around as I could with it, and does fine.
4 years in with mine. I take it easy and it works just fine. Pulled logs, big rocks, etc. just take little bites and work the load smart.....slow and steady.
thanks for the video. I am a new land owner and looking to dig on an up hill slope to make a lane for shooting. The plan is to us the trench as a shooting range below the tree base to keep stray round to the dirt. Im was going to hire someone but this looks cheaper in the long run as i can use it multiple time for whatever project i think of. This vid helped me make a big decision on my property
Great advice!! If you see the "outrigger start to flex and pull I STOPPED!" Bwuahahahaa... My grandpa's words from my teens fills my head. "Willy, if you're about to do something stupid.... stop and rethink what or how you're doing it.!" He taught me on Allis Chalmers 7020, 7040 and bigger tractors. They can all break if you try to use them beyond their mechanical capabilities! I don't have one yet, but am seriously considering buying one.
I had an old neighbor who was a retired heavy equipment mechanic who owned a Case 580K who used to help me. He was always aware of how much to push his machine. Low rpm’s and gentle movement. I was the only person he’d ever lend his equipment to because I respected him and his equipment.
Double M I have a lot of extra parts I ordered for my backhoe and I sold the backhoe (made me offer I couldn’t refuse) and I have no use for them. You helped me out a few years back and I would like for you to have these parts.
I agree with you I have one I built a little more heavy duty but similar and it does ten times more stuff than I expected people told me all the stuff it wouldn't be able to do but it could do it and way more very useful machine great vid thanks for sharing
Listen to this guy !!, I also have had my HF backhoe for 5 years... Saved me A LOT OF WORK !!! AND I SAVED $97,000.00 over buying a $100,000.00 machine !! Ditches, Trees out up to 6" dia., Great for Brush clearing, etc....
Well yes ,Henry you can get a lemon . I purchased mine for 2499.00.A lot of machine for that price .I now after replacing the Pump and the Monoblock valve control ,and one leaking hose ,and a new filter ,and TIGHTENING down the engine mount bolts ( The engine Almost vibrated off the machine )am able to clear a piece of land, remove boulders ,dig a 300 ft drain ,plant trees ,,etc ,,,,,at my own pace .I guess some Trencher owners like yourself have had much better fortune since their purchase.Overall I would still recommend it ,your video and others like it should be enough to explain what the machine is capable of .
Also if you buy a ripper tooth or a narrower bucket for hard soil it takes a lot off the digging process. Just like a dirt maddic blade on one side and pick on the other. I’ve seen people brake the handle on a Maddoc. Didn’t know when to stop. Thanks for the video
Completely agree with your analysis. No matter how powerful a machine, the majority of problems are between the seat and the controls. The NTSB would conclude that the cause of the incident was man-made.
Both of My outrigger middle sleeves ripped the steel right where the welds were. Looked like tissue paper. Welded up my own out of local scourced steel and been running the heck out of it since. Only other issue I have had is the main pivot pin wearing out. The Grease Fittings do not actually Grease the moving parts.
Very god information, been thinking about getting one. Every video i see on this machine working is on even ground, how does it work when being used on hills or uneven ground?
That's the reason I got one of these. I am in the Blue Ridge mountains with very little flat ground. I crawl this thing up and down slopes that a tractor or trackhoe would tip over on. It does great! Thanks for watching and for the kind words. Good luck with your decision. If you get one, keep me posted on how it goes for you.
Sounds like it does the job for a cheap price. Obviously it’s not the same as even a mini excavator but it’s a fraction of the cost . It looks to me to be pretty strong but slow but much better than breaking your back . I wanted a mini excavator but seeing prices of even used ones led me to think about a sub compact tractor/backhoe. Even that is much more expensive than this . I ended up using Deeres 0 interest and bought a JD 1025r loader/backhoe/ mower combination , it’s little but vary versatile but it’s a $30k investment it $3k . Ended up using it right away to dig the water and sewer lines for my new home .
thank you for the video , it is a good video and we can see in real time the excavator working ( not in fast movie play ) . i think it is very slow on hydrolic and not for me , but like you said it is a 3k $ machine and i still think for 3k it is good and better than a shovel
Considering buying one of these. If I do, I'll weld a bead or two lengthwise , all sides,on both outriggers to strengthen them. Same on the bucket . Thanks for taking the time to share your experience with us.
Capefear.... Don't put too much heat in the welding zone i.e. don't beef up welds if not really necessary, since detrimental for the cristaline structure of the steel in the heat influenced zone. That's why over-welding a crack often breaks again soon. It's better to weld a pad onto the crack...
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead wonderful video thanks for sharing it, I'm a disabled combat veteran and need to dig some stuff and have to much pride to ask. I'd rather do it myself
Once again another example of disappointed people who could tear up a steel ball with a rubber mallot when it comes to the naysayers saying HF stuff is junk. I have been disappointed by some of their products but have others I have used 100s of times over decades . This video is perfect example of what I mean. Shame you can't make a video of how you can tear up the trencher just for the people who love to say see I told you so.
It kind of needs the pressure relief valve set to a lower pressure. Some say to raise it... but that doesn't really help anything except breaking things faster. If you want it to be faster, there's a video about putting in a different pump that just bolts in Higher flow rate. Slightly lower pressure. You can curl, crowd, boom up and swing all at the same time with it.
I agree. If the valve is set to high you'll just break things faster. But even then, if the operator just pays attention they can avoid most "breaks". I don't see me ever changing to a faster pump. I've been running this one for over 6 years with stock pump and I kind of like the speed. I'm old, so we're both kinda slow. LOL Thanks for watching.
Could the bucket be reinforced with some additional metal welded on it ? If it's made to be more sturdy or durable would that cause the next weakest link in the chain to fail ? I could see making the smallest rear 3 point grader blade to attach to the boom on place of the bucket. Then you could pull the removed material back into the hole or trench . Just a thought
Well, you are not going to be able to pull any heavier load with that light machine unless you have it chained to some trees. LOL It's basically only replacing the labor of what you can do with a pick and shovel. A bit more. You wouldn't want to try to pick and shovel that well established gravel drive. For $3,000 it would be a great tool to have around on small average.
They are cheap. But they aren’t for commercial use. I agree that 99% of failure’s are caused by a short between the operator and the machine. Let it do the work and do the work it’s built for. Slow and steady, you aren’t taken it back to the rental place. It’s going to be there even after the job is done. Hell years ago we would have had to of been out there with a pick and shovel. Even if it takes as long, you won’t be hurting at bedtime.
I just picked up a new never used one for $3K. Other than front wheels I will try keeping it stock. Just waiting for rain so the ground loosens up a bit.
I was told when I got a small compact tractor. The more the machine cost the quicker the job can get done. The less the cost the job will take longer. You have to go on what you can afford. And when I buy something it is to use. On hydraulic the ht10 mini excavator has more power (13.5hp). The my 25hp subcompact tractor. I have not used a towable trencher. I will tell you a 1ton mini excavator will out do sub compact backhoe all day on digging and getting into smaller places(36 inches wide). Now the subcompact is for moving the dirt with front bucket and leveling with the buck and box blade. I'll tell you this. The person complaining about made in China made machine. Give him a shovel and say get after it. All machines are only designed to do a certain amount of work. If you pass that point it will brake. Then you better have money to fix. Or you better know how to weld.
Some people just need to hire stuff out and not mess whatever they get UP. Look at ICWELD videos and he has to put all matters of BIG stuff back together. I too am in the Blue Ridge and moved and hauled the clay and rock for the better part of 50 years and it's been proven that you CAN mess something up if you WANT to. My Sea Bee WW-2 Uncle told me years ago to take care of equipment because you might need to make a living the next day with it. I've run them big and I've run them little and it's always better to ,make an extra lick than have to call in a welder. Dig on, Pal and God Bless!
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead I'm in the hilly part of the Blue Ridge and worked all over the place but am satisfied to do yard work now. Worked on all kinds of jobs and ran all kinds of machines but tried to take care of every blasted one, no matter how junky. Keep on digging, Pal! God Bless!
I was going to mention IC Weld … yes, the big stuff breaks too. That welder is really an artist, it is amazing what he can do with basic welding equipment.
A lot of the problem with these backhoes could be eliminated by dropping the p.s.i. by adjusting system relief valve. Cylinders bend, and arm joints are warped because of excessive pressure to the cylinders. When pressure creating the force exceeds the limits of the cylinder rods they bend, this indicates excessively high p.s.i., which when properly adjusted, the system relief valve will relieve pressure before the cylinder rods bend. I'm surprised that companies sell these without assuring that force limits of the cylinders are not exceeded by excessive pressure from the hydraulic pump.
What you say is true, but can be said about any hydraulic equipment. After six years of use I've never adjusted the psi, I just listen to the equipment, it tells me when to back off. LOL
@@sidrojoe It's an unfortunate truth that too many adults today haven't progressed past the mental development stage of a 12 year old. Before it was sufficient to say "Not for use by Children!" and it was all good. A child's mental development before political correctness took over was Idiot or mental capacity of an infant requiring constant supervision and incapable of productive activity, Imbecile or mental capacity of a toddler able to engage in some activities with regular supervision and then Moron or able to engage in productive activities for extended periods with regular yet less frequent supervision. Sadly mankind has devolved to where many adults never progress past Moron and an unacceptable amount are stuck at Imbecile their entire adult life and unfortunately these folks with diminished capacity are driving motor vehicles and operating equipment without the regular supervision they require and they're certainly very good at needlessly breaking things. Too many times after telling someone that they were overworking a piece of equipment and showing them the safe limit they set it back to where they had it before, breaking it and then blamed the equipment. Then I had to fix it without telling them that they needed to develop mentally past the stage of Imbecile or Moron and try to educate them on proper procedure which often was an exercise in futility. So it comes down to - Do we penalize everyone by setting up everything for use by Imbeciles? No that's not a really good solution either. Best!
Double M, do you have help on prioritizing mods to our new trencher? We need to decide where to spend our efforts. Convenience and speed, beefier, etc. Would appreciate your viewpoint.
That's a hard question to answer. Everyone uses theirs different. For me adding second set of wheels and a place for outriggers was the best first move. This would be under "convenience" as it helps with changing from toe to dig and moving. At my age that was more important to me. I've done nothing to make mine faster or beefier, I almost never run much over 1/2 throttle. I find it's easy to control at that speed and less chance of breaking something. Start small, just dig a little hole and fill it back, as you get the feel you will better know what you want to do with yours. Have fun with it, keep me posted on your progress and if you have questions I'll be here.
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead Thank you very much for replying. It's very encouraging to know that your stock machine has held up with proper usage. We definitely will not push too hard. Hope we've got a good one here. Like you, I've been happy with Harbor Freight service so far. Also encouraging.
From what I hear they are selling faster than they can keep them in stock. I know some people have called and were able to get one even when it said unavailable. Good luck and keep me posted.
It’s made for light duty basically that’s it you can’t overwork it can’t pull stumps with it that’s totally ridiculous or try to move around some thing very heavy🎃
Just like I've always said if you don't take care of what you do have What makes you think you will take care Of what you do get later Mine has lots of breaks but only after I loan it out Thats not going happen any more
Common sense does seem to piss people off. Having said that I am saving my pennies to be able to buy one of these as I spent all my money on my property and I fully expect it to break. Not because I think it's a POS, it's because I have a lot of stuff that needs done that I'm going to ask it to do and some of that stuff is not what it's designed to do. The difference here is I'm not going to be pissed at the machine or myself, I'm just going to repair what I break and move on. I've got more money in tools to repair stuff than I have in stuff to be able to repair.
You sound like me. I couldn't justify 30 thousand for a digger. After 7 years of hard work it's still one of the best investments I've made. let me knoe when you get yours, we'll compare notes. Thanks for watching.
I had dirt master from Kwikway and paid 5k for it had it for ten years then i went and sold it [BIG MISTAKE]and then bought a new kubota mini excavator at the tune of 30k what a piece of junk when back filling with bucket it has not push you end up having to use the blade to do any back filling.never ran out of power with the towable
Poor man’s backhoe …. The only reason I would buy one is to mount it to a tractor and skip the 7-10,000 dollar one for the tractor… just upgrade what you need to mount and use it on a tractor will still be cheaper than buying 7-10 grand for one…
I will never own another tractor mounted one. I like it being on it's own. I can take it places that a tractor would turn over or not fit. It works perfect for my needs, if it doesn't fit your needs then I suggest you not get one.
No, I'm not "wrong". It's my opinion, based on years of experience. Just like your comment is your opinion. We will agree to disagree. Thanks for watching.
Put a bigger hydraulic pump on it and it’s faster and better… but I have a design that will keep the front on the ground and less of a chance of it coming up… but I’m not telling you my design…
It is absolutely cheap metal. And thats the problem. One batch might be great. The next batch can be absolute crap. But at the price paid, no one is checking. Same with the welds and everything else. Also you bought it 5 years ago, the economy in china was very different then than it is now. You seem to forget everything got a 25% quality reduction to make up for Trumps import tax just a few years after u bought this sucker. Is it crap? Yes. Will it do the job for a hobbyist? Yes.
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead It is absolutely crap. You can not build one cheaper. Its just so happens that for a shovel, its incredibly overbuilt. a Bobcat Excavator is an infinitely nicer machine, whilst still being crap. Minimum viable products are not works of art. They are minimally viable. Does that mean they arent viable? Nope, sure doesnt.
@@DieselRamcharger I will repeat myself, you have a right to your opinion. That doesn't make you right. I am 70 years old and have run just about every kind of excavator there is and now that I'm retired this little digger is perfect for me and thousands of others (just check other remarks here and my number of subscribers). I am not sure why you feel the need to watch and comment on something that you seem to hate so much. If you think it's "crap" then just continue thinking that and we will continue digging with our little trenchers. Have a nice day and again, thank you for driving up my "view count".
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I'm glad you pointed out that with common sense and a little finesse that the machine will perform well and last a long time. Many people just don't understand how to use a machine without beating it up, and many never will. Nice video!
Thank you. Yea, sad part is, there is not much "common sense" left these days.
I am 68 years old. It is funny how as you age you get less worried what others think, lol. I agree with you completely. These machines cost what they cost because they aren't made for the work that a machine that costs 10 times their cost can do. They are very powerful machines and need to be run by someone that is not in a hurry. I bought a Betsco in February, because they were available, no wait time and I wanted one badly. I started burning wood this winter and needed to build roads in my woodlot, dig the trench for the underground pipe for the outdoor boiler, build a woodshed foundation, and I use it with the thumb to pick up logs so I can block them up without bending over. I am going to use it this fall to clear the pasture pines out of a field that I bush hog to make it easier to mow. I was told by a guy that owns a compact tractor with a backhoe on it that I wouldn't be able to dig my trench with my little backhoe and I could borrow his tractor to do it with. He was wrong. I dug up rocks that were at least 3 times the size of the bucket and they were buried in hard clay. I could go on and on about what they can do. You are definitely right, they are stronger than the materials they are built with, so you have to be careful. They certainly beat paying rent and having to schedule times to use. I just do the jobs I want to when I want. The rent for a machine to do the amount of work I have done so far would be more than what I spent to buy the digger and I still have a lot more to do with it.
Well said Gary. I always find it funny that most of the people who say these machines "can't do the job" have never used one. LOL Thanks for watching.
Hello and good afternoon what kind of boiler do you have and kind of pipe you put in the ground
@@cedricsimmons2033 I have a central boiler 560 titanium. I got my pipe from outdoor boilers. Hasn't been very cold yet, but it doesn't seem to lose much heat. Really happy with the boiler.
Good to know cause I'm thinking of getting one
Amazing what 5 years of experience and common sense can do to educate a future owner. Thanks for another person willing to make a honest video opinion.
My wife wants me to redo our French drains. But I'm tired of renting equipment. She told me to go by this and she'll right the check. Thank you for showing it in use.
Glad I could help. Let me know when you get it and thanks for watching.
What a lucky guy! I wish someone would insist that I buy one and offer to write the check, LOL. But it looks like I have to take matters into my own hands 🙄
Where I live the machine costs about 10 days of rental fees.
I am a one percenter. Thanks for the tip about a culvert drain. Learned long ago try not to break the machine! Smooth and easy. Something goes wrong, got to fix it right away before it gets serious.
I am one of the 1% that did not know about running your drain off the side. Makes sense. Thanks. I’ve wanted one of those but really don’t have a use for it. Maybe some day I’ll buy some land and need one. Thanks for your knowledge.
Thanks David, yea if you have some land it will pay for itself in no time.
Mines 12 yrs old and works great, I've adapted 4 different bucket attachments. I bought it used 5 years ago for 1500 it paid for itself on one job.
You got a great deal! Thanks for watching.
Your the man. You told it like it is. Don't have crazy expectations out of a 3500.00 machine. I am trying to look for one of these now. I wish someone or some manufacturer did a comparison video of all the companies that make a towable trencher or excavator. This would help all of us trying to decide which company to choose if they compared them all side by side.
They are on sale right now for 3k
@@coty397 awesome. Thanks. I wish I could take advantage. I have been spending money on fixing up my mothers laundry room. I hope it is on sale in the summertime when I am going to need it. Thank you again. Good luck on your travels.
To me, I view this machine as an alternative to me, a shovel and a wheelbarrow, so that makes it a life saver.
I couldn’t agree with you more. The only issues I’ve experienced with the HFT were user-inflicted. In my case, damage was done pulling a 2800 lb boulder out of the ground, and I knew better. This is a marvelous little machine.
And you pulled the Boulder out...👍
@@n1ksf Yeah. That thing was pretty huge. It’s still sitting where I managed to push it. It’s a natural stone bench now. I tell folks it’s my HFT trophy.
@Shawne Baines yeah, I laugh at all the naysayers. It's many times more powerful than you and me together, that's how I look at it. With the huge boulders here, I bump and move them around as I could with it, and does fine.
4 years in with mine. I take it easy and it works just fine. Pulled logs, big rocks, etc. just take little bites and work the load smart.....slow and steady.
You can tell people, but you can't make them pay attention or learn.
Thanks for sharing your learned experience!
Yes sirree, they are tough little machines. New owners should take it easy until they get the feel of it and discover its limitations. Great info.
Thanks for your effective and honest appraisal of this trencher. Very helpful to me.
thanks for the video. I am a new land owner and looking to dig on an up hill slope to make a lane for shooting. The plan is to us the trench as a shooting range below the tree base to keep stray round to the dirt. Im was going to hire someone but this looks cheaper in the long run as i can use it multiple time for whatever project i think of. This vid helped me make a big decision on my property
Glad I could help. I'm getting ready to dig out a gun range on my place soon. LOL
Great advice!! If you see the "outrigger start to flex and pull I STOPPED!" Bwuahahahaa... My grandpa's words from my teens fills my head. "Willy, if you're about to do something stupid.... stop and rethink what or how you're doing it.!" He taught me on Allis Chalmers 7020, 7040 and bigger tractors. They can all break if you try to use them beyond their mechanical capabilities!
I don't have one yet, but am seriously considering buying one.
Yea, funny how people now just don't understand. LOL
I had an old neighbor who was a retired heavy equipment mechanic who owned a Case 580K who used to help me. He was always aware of how much to push his machine. Low rpm’s and gentle movement. I was the only person he’d ever lend his equipment to because I respected him and his equipment.
Sounds like a smart man.
Double M I have a lot of extra parts I ordered for my backhoe and I sold the backhoe (made me offer I couldn’t refuse) and I have no use for them. You helped me out a few years back and I would like for you to have these parts.
I agree with you I have one I built a little more heavy duty but similar and it does ten times more stuff than I expected people told me all the stuff it wouldn't be able to do but it could do it and way more very useful machine great vid thanks for sharing
Got one a few months ago
Works better than the pick and shovel
Just bought 1 yesterday can't wait to start. Appreciate the knowledge
Thanks and good luck. Keep me posted on how it goes.
Listen to this guy !!, I also have had my HF backhoe for 5 years... Saved me A LOT OF WORK !!! AND I SAVED $97,000.00 over buying a $100,000.00 machine !! Ditches, Trees out up to 6" dia., Great for Brush clearing, etc....
Well yes ,Henry you can get a lemon . I purchased mine for 2499.00.A lot of machine for that price .I now after replacing the Pump and the Monoblock valve control ,and one leaking hose ,and a new filter ,and TIGHTENING down the engine mount bolts ( The engine Almost vibrated off the machine )am able to clear a piece of land, remove boulders ,dig a 300 ft drain ,plant trees ,,etc ,,,,,at my own pace .I guess some Trencher owners like yourself have had much better fortune since their purchase.Overall I would still recommend it ,your video and others like it should be enough to explain what the machine is capable of .
To the naysayers...."You can't handle the truth! Great, honest video! Thanks.
Totally agree with you. Gotta use it for what it's meant for. Still tickled with mine. No issue's
Also if you buy a ripper tooth or a narrower bucket for hard soil it takes a lot off the digging process. Just like a dirt maddic blade on one side and pick on the other. I’ve seen people brake the handle on a Maddoc. Didn’t know when to stop. Thanks for the video
Hi there
Good job explaining.
And let the machine do the work.
Have a good one.
See you next time .
Completely agree with your analysis.
No matter how powerful a machine, the majority of problems are between the seat and the controls.
The NTSB would conclude that the cause of the incident was man-made.
LOL, Well said!
Both of My outrigger middle sleeves ripped the steel right where the welds were. Looked like tissue paper. Welded up my own out of local scourced steel and been running the heck out of it since. Only other issue I have had is the main pivot pin wearing out. The Grease Fittings do not actually Grease the moving parts.
I just bought one and I'll let you know how it goes. I've operated several different backhoes and excavators so we will see.
Yea, keep me posted.
Very god information, been thinking about getting one. Every video i see on this machine working is on even ground, how does it work when being used on hills or uneven ground?
That's the reason I got one of these. I am in the Blue Ridge mountains with very little flat ground. I crawl this thing up and down slopes that a tractor or trackhoe would tip over on. It does great! Thanks for watching and for the kind words. Good luck with your decision. If you get one, keep me posted on how it goes for you.
Sounds like it does the job for a cheap price. Obviously it’s not the same as even a mini excavator but it’s a fraction of the cost . It looks to me to be pretty strong but slow but much better than breaking your back . I wanted a mini excavator but seeing prices of even used ones led me to think about a sub compact tractor/backhoe. Even that is much more expensive than this . I ended up using Deeres 0 interest and bought a JD 1025r loader/backhoe/ mower combination , it’s little but vary versatile but it’s a $30k investment it $3k . Ended up using it right away to dig the water and sewer lines for my new home .
thank you for the video , it is a good video and we can see in real time the excavator working ( not in fast movie play ) . i think it is very slow on hydrolic and not for me , but like you said it is a 3k $ machine and i still think for 3k it is good and better than a shovel
Sounds like this man knows what he's talking about. AND I agree totally with him.
Thanks Ray. It comes from being old and running equipment all of my life. LOL
Considering buying one of these. If I do, I'll weld a bead or two lengthwise , all sides,on both outriggers to strengthen them. Same on the bucket . Thanks for taking the time to share your experience with us.
Let me know if you get one and thanks for watching.
Capefear.... Don't put too much heat in the welding zone i.e. don't beef up welds if not really necessary, since detrimental for the cristaline structure of the steel in the heat influenced zone. That's why over-welding a crack often breaks again soon. It's better to weld a pad onto the crack...
I honestly love how people are rough on things and blame the tool. If you take care of your stuff it lasts longer
you are so right. Some will never learn. Thanks for watching.
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead wonderful video thanks for sharing it, I'm a disabled combat veteran and need to dig some stuff and have to much pride to ask. I'd rather do it myself
People are ridiculous. Some of the young guys I work with could chip an anvil with a rubber mallet. Thanks for using common sense!
Once again another example of disappointed people who could tear up a steel ball with a rubber mallot when it comes to the naysayers saying HF stuff is junk. I have been disappointed by some of their products but have others I have used 100s of times over decades . This video is perfect example of what I mean. Shame you can't make a video of how you can tear up the trencher just for the people who love to say see I told you so.
great vid buddy
They break because they're made from that new wonder metal called "chinesium" 👍🏻
Perfectly said
It kind of needs the pressure relief valve set to a lower pressure.
Some say to raise it... but that doesn't really help anything except breaking things faster.
If you want it to be faster, there's a video about putting in a different pump that just bolts in Higher flow rate. Slightly lower pressure. You can curl, crowd, boom up and swing all at the same time with it.
I agree. If the valve is set to high you'll just break things faster. But even then, if the operator just pays attention they can avoid most "breaks". I don't see me ever changing to a faster pump. I've been running this one for over 6 years with stock pump and I kind of like the speed. I'm old, so we're both kinda slow. LOL Thanks for watching.
Could the bucket be reinforced with some additional metal welded on it ? If it's made to be more sturdy or durable would that cause the next weakest link in the chain to fail ? I could see making the smallest rear 3 point grader blade to attach to the boom on place of the bucket. Then you could pull the removed material back into the hole or trench . Just a thought
Well, you are not going to be able to pull any heavier load with that light machine unless you have it chained to some trees. LOL It's basically only replacing the labor of what you can do with a pick and shovel. A bit more. You wouldn't want to try to pick and shovel that well established gravel drive. For $3,000 it would be a great tool to have around on small average.
Because it's a very strong machine...broke mine a few times, weld, reinforce, and continue on..
Nice evaluation.
Common sense just not to common anymore
I'm getting one when I'm able to.
Good to know, thanks.
They are cheap. But they aren’t for commercial use. I agree that 99% of failure’s are caused by a short between the operator and the machine. Let it do the work and do the work it’s built for. Slow and steady, you aren’t taken it back to the rental place. It’s going to be there even after the job is done. Hell years ago we would have had to of been out there with a pick and shovel. Even if it takes as long, you won’t be hurting at bedtime.
Good review! “Just stop!”
I just picked up a new never used one for $3K. Other than front wheels I will try keeping it stock. Just waiting for rain so the ground loosens up a bit.
I was told when I got a small compact tractor. The more the machine cost the quicker the job can get done. The less the cost the job will take longer.
You have to go on what you can afford. And when I buy something it is to use. On hydraulic the ht10 mini excavator has more power (13.5hp). The my 25hp subcompact tractor. I have not used a towable trencher. I will tell you a 1ton mini excavator will out do sub compact backhoe all day on digging and getting into smaller places(36 inches wide). Now the subcompact is for moving the dirt with front bucket and leveling with the buck and box blade.
I'll tell you this. The person complaining about made in China made machine. Give him a shovel and say get after it. All machines are only designed to do a certain amount of work. If you pass that point it will brake. Then you better have money to fix. Or you better know how to weld.
I have a 40 hp compact tractor with loader and the Betsco backhoe. They work great together, especially building roads in the woods.
It seemed like the bucket was real slow in tipping to empty.
Well, these things are not real fast but I also was running less that half throttle.
Beats digging by hand any day of the week. especially when you get to old buzzard age like myself
You got that right!😉
Some people just need to hire stuff out and not mess whatever they get UP. Look at ICWELD videos and he has to put all matters of BIG stuff back together. I too am in the Blue Ridge and moved and hauled the clay and rock for the better part of 50 years and it's been proven that you CAN mess something up if you WANT to. My Sea Bee WW-2 Uncle told me years ago to take care of equipment because you might need to make a living the next day with it. I've run them big and I've run them little and it's always better to ,make an extra lick than have to call in a welder. Dig on, Pal and God Bless!
Well said and thank you.
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead I'm in the hilly part of the Blue Ridge and worked all over the place but am satisfied to do yard work now. Worked on all kinds of jobs and ran all kinds of machines but tried to take care of every blasted one, no matter how junky. Keep on digging, Pal! God Bless!
I was going to mention IC Weld … yes, the big stuff breaks too. That welder is really an artist, it is amazing what he can do with basic welding equipment.
"If you see that thing starting to flex, STOP!!!"
It really is that simple, isn't it?
Yep, you got it!!
For $3,000 it sure did save my back
A lot of the problem with these backhoes could be eliminated by dropping the p.s.i. by adjusting system relief valve. Cylinders bend, and arm joints are warped because of excessive pressure to the cylinders. When pressure creating the force exceeds the limits of the cylinder rods they bend, this indicates excessively high p.s.i., which when properly adjusted, the system relief valve will relieve pressure before the cylinder rods bend. I'm surprised that companies sell these without assuring that force limits of the cylinders are not exceeded by excessive pressure from the hydraulic pump.
What you say is true, but can be said about any hydraulic equipment. After six years of use I've never adjusted the psi, I just listen to the equipment, it tells me when to back off. LOL
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead You know your equipment, but many don't, that's why equipment for consumer use should be made, as it were "child proof".
@@sidrojoe It's an unfortunate truth that too many adults today haven't progressed past the mental development stage of a 12 year old. Before it was sufficient to say "Not for use by Children!" and it was all good.
A child's mental development before political correctness took over was Idiot or mental capacity of an infant requiring constant supervision and incapable of productive activity, Imbecile or mental capacity of a toddler able to engage in some activities with regular supervision and then Moron or able to engage in productive activities for extended periods with regular yet less frequent supervision. Sadly mankind has devolved to where many adults never progress past Moron and an unacceptable amount are stuck at Imbecile their entire adult life and unfortunately these folks with diminished capacity are driving motor vehicles and operating equipment without the regular supervision they require and they're certainly very good at needlessly breaking things.
Too many times after telling someone that they were overworking a piece of equipment and showing them the safe limit they set it back to where they had it before, breaking it and then blamed the equipment. Then I had to fix it without telling them that they needed to develop mentally past the stage of Imbecile or Moron and try to educate them on proper procedure which often was an exercise in futility.
So it comes down to - Do we penalize everyone by setting up everything for use by Imbeciles? No that's not a really good solution either.
Best!
Double M, do you have help on prioritizing mods to our new trencher? We need to decide where to spend our efforts. Convenience and speed, beefier, etc. Would appreciate your viewpoint.
That's a hard question to answer. Everyone uses theirs different. For me adding second set of wheels and a place for outriggers was the best first move. This would be under "convenience" as it helps with changing from toe to dig and moving. At my age that was more important to me. I've done nothing to make mine faster or beefier, I almost never run much over 1/2 throttle. I find it's easy to control at that speed and less chance of breaking something. Start small, just dig a little hole and fill it back, as you get the feel you will better know what you want to do with yours. Have fun with it, keep me posted on your progress and if you have questions I'll be here.
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead Thank you very much for replying. It's very encouraging to know that your stock machine has held up with proper usage. We definitely will not push too hard. Hope we've got a good one here. Like you, I've been happy with Harbor Freight service so far. Also encouraging.
Great info thanks
You're welcome! Hope it helps.
What pisses me off, is that I can’t get one. Always “unavailable”
From what I hear they are selling faster than they can keep them in stock. I know some people have called and were able to get one even when it said unavailable. Good luck and keep me posted.
I completely agree
There are people that can break an anvil, and the equipment they have shows it.
It’s made for light duty basically that’s it you can’t overwork it can’t pull stumps with it that’s totally ridiculous or try to move around some thing very heavy🎃
Just like I've always said if you don't take care of what you do have
What makes you think you will take care
Of what you do get later
Mine has lots of breaks but only after
I loan it out
Thats not going happen any more
Beats the heck out of a ............SHOVEL !
Yes it does!!! LOL
Common sense does seem to piss people off. Having said that I am saving my pennies to be able to buy one of these as I spent all my money on my property and I fully expect it to break. Not because I think it's a POS, it's because I have a lot of stuff that needs done that I'm going to ask it to do and some of that stuff is not what it's designed to do. The difference here is I'm not going to be pissed at the machine or myself, I'm just going to repair what I break and move on. I've got more money in tools to repair stuff than I have in stuff to be able to repair.
You sound like me. I couldn't justify 30 thousand for a digger. After 7 years of hard work it's still one of the best investments I've made. let me knoe when you get yours, we'll compare notes. Thanks for watching.
I had dirt master from Kwikway and paid 5k for it had it for ten years then i went and sold it [BIG MISTAKE]and then bought a new kubota mini excavator at the tune of 30k what a piece of junk when back filling with bucket it has not push you end up having to use the blade to do any back filling.never ran out of power with the towable
So after digging an acre pod and a bunch of other stuff this machine is only worth 3500...
I wouldn't sell mine for 3500 right now. It does everything I need it to do. It's worth a lot to me.
Welds break, using the right welding materials. You can’t beat up shit either.
machine should be designed to hold its own weight. This thing clearly isn't. Like you said. cheap ass steel.
Just like people breaking screw drivers as pry bars
Everything breaks when abused ! , Even my JCB 3cx .
Maybe the older ones were built better. Also a few days to hand dig that... give me a break
People expect to much from a lightweight machine. Just grab a shovel and wheel barrel 😂
cool
Poor man’s backhoe …. The only reason I would buy one is to mount it to a tractor and skip the 7-10,000 dollar one for the tractor… just upgrade what you need to mount and use it on a tractor will still be cheaper than buying 7-10 grand for one…
I will never own another tractor mounted one. I like it being on it's own. I can take it places that a tractor would turn over or not fit. It works perfect for my needs, if it doesn't fit your needs then I suggest you not get one.
these machines are perfect for normal people. for industrial use, you should buy something bigger.
For one thing your analogy is wrong. This is a mini Excavator Cheap at best yet if you have hard ground it's not the best
No, I'm not "wrong". It's my opinion, based on years of experience. Just like your comment is your opinion. We will agree to disagree. Thanks for watching.
I am so damn pissed off so I'm going to have my self a cold one 🙃
What er not Wudder or Wotter otherwise a good video.
Put a bigger hydraulic pump on it and it’s faster and better… but I have a design that will keep the front on the ground and less of a chance of it coming up… but I’m not telling you my design…
OK, keep it a secret. LOL Many have put a larger pump on but I like it the way it is. I'm old and it's fast enough for me.
yes I"m pissed because you have one and I don"t.
Toylet. It needs to be flushed!!!
So your saying use common sense , thats rare out there these days , lol
You are so right Brad. LOL
Why would you buy one is a better question
Too far away from your work,.
It is absolutely cheap metal. And thats the problem. One batch might be great. The next batch can be absolute crap. But at the price paid, no one is checking. Same with the welds and everything else. Also you bought it 5 years ago, the economy in china was very different then than it is now. You seem to forget everything got a 25% quality reduction to make up for Trumps import tax just a few years after u bought this sucker. Is it crap? Yes. Will it do the job for a hobbyist? Yes.
Please don't assume that I have forgotten anything.You are entitled to your opinion but I disagree, it is far from"crap". Thanks for watching.
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead It is absolutely crap. You can not build one cheaper. Its just so happens that for a shovel, its incredibly overbuilt. a Bobcat Excavator is an infinitely nicer machine, whilst still being crap. Minimum viable products are not works of art. They are minimally viable. Does that mean they arent viable? Nope, sure doesnt.
@@DieselRamcharger I will repeat myself, you have a right to your opinion. That doesn't make you right. I am 70 years old and have run just about every kind of excavator there is and now that I'm retired this little digger is perfect for me and thousands of others (just check other remarks here and my number of subscribers). I am not sure why you feel the need to watch and comment on something that you seem to hate so much. If you think it's "crap" then just continue thinking that and we will continue digging with our little trenchers. Have a nice day and again, thank you for driving up my "view count".
Brother, I'm glad that you have the patience to explain to people (that doesn't have common sense) how it works. 🙏🏻👍🏻❤️🤍💙
Thanks Lance, at my age, patience is all I have left.😁
@@DoubleMFarmHomestead 🤣😂