FHM BACKHOE BH 8 Guide

Please read these instructions carefully before using! Always grease
all fittings and be sure to always check and fill with oil before operating!
GREASE ALL FITTINGS BEFORE OPERATING!
Save This Manual for Future Reference
BACKHOE BH 8 & 9
OPERATION & PARTS MANUAL
Specifications subject to change without notice!

Farmer-Helper BH 8 & 9 2 Revision 08 - 2017
Please Note
Make sure all potential operators of this equipment review this manual and all safety messages
contained within.
This safety symbol indicates important safety messages in this manual. When
you see this symbol, carefully read the message that follows and be alert to the
possibility of personal injury or death.
CAUTION; It is the Owner/Operators responsibility to ensure that
the tractor three point top link, tractor frame, & hydraulic lift cover
area is strong enough to accept three point rigid connection and
backhoe force while operation as extra forces are exerted through
3-PT hitch system. NO liability can be accepted for damage to
tractor.

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CONTENTS
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
2. SAFETY DECALS
3. BACKHOE SPECIFICATIONS
4. INTRODUCTION
5. TRACTOR PREPARATION
6. BACKHOE OPERATION
7. BACKHOE REMOVAL
8. LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
9. TROUBLE SHOOTING
10. HYDRAULIC SYSTEM SCHEMATIC
11. TORQUE TIGHTENING CHART
12. PART ILLUSTRATIONS
13. Warranty

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1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
SAFETY
Understand that your safety and the safety of other persons is measured by how you service and
operate this Backhoe. Know the position and operations of all controls before you or anyone else
operate the equipment.
Make sure you check all controls in all safe area before starting.
Read this manual completely and thoroughly and make sure you understand all controls. All
equipment has a limit. Make sure you are aware of the stability and load characteristics of this
Backhoe before you begin operation.
The safety information given in this manual does not replace any safety codes, insurance needs,
federal, state and local laws. Make sure your machine has the correct equipment required by your
local laws and regulations.
CAUTION
This safety alert symbol indicates important safety messages in this manual. When you see this
symbol, carefully read the message that follows and be alert to the possibility of personal injury
or death.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Before starting the engine of your tractor, make sure all operation controls are in park lock or neutral
Position.
Operate controls only when seated in the operator's seat.
Equip your tractor with a ROPS cab or frame for your protection. See your tractor operator's
manual for correct Seat belt usage.
A frequent cause of personal injury or death is persons falling off and being run over. Do not permit
others to ride on your tractor. Only one person, the operator, should be on the machine when it is in
Operation.
Before leaving the tractor, stop the engine, put all controls in neutral, engage the parking brake and
remove the key from the ignition.
When using remote hydraulic tractor valves on some tractors, the Backhoe’s cylinders will
continue moving unless the control levers are manually returned to neutral, or until relief pressure
is reached at the ends of piston strokes. Observe the bucket movement and maintain control with
the control levers.
Stop the backhoe arms gradually when lowering or lifting loads. Stay off of slopes too steep for safe
operation. Shift down before you start up or down a hill with a heavy load. Avoid "free wheeling".
Travel speed should be such that complete control and machine stability is maintained at all
times. Where possible, avoid operating operation near ditches, embankments and holes. Reduce
speed when turning, crossing slopes, and on rough, slick or muddy surfaces.

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Never use your hand to check for suspected leaks under pressure. Use a piece of cardboard or
wood for this purpose. Escaping hydraulic oil or diesel fuel leaking under pressure can have
sufficient force to penetrate the skin and cause infection or other injured by leaking fluid , seek
medical attention immediately.
To prevent personal injury , relieve all pressure before disconnecting fluid lines.
Before applying hydraulic pressure, make sure all hydraulic connections are tight and components
are in good condition.
Contact with overhead power lines can cause severe electrical burn or death from electrocution.
Make sure there is enough clearance between raised equipment and overhead power lines.
Add recommended rear tire liquid weight or rear wheel weights for increased stability.
A backhoe attachment should be transported in a low position at slow ground speeds. Make turns
slowly and use the tractor brakes cautiously. A loaded attachment in the raised position alters the
center of gravity location of the machine and increases the possibility of mishaps.
Do not stand, walk or work under a raised backhoe or attachment unless it is securely blocked or
held in position. Accidental movement of a control lever or leak in the hydraulic system could
cause the backhoe to drop, or attachment to dump, causing severe injury.
Make sure all parked backhoes on stands are on a hard level surface with all safety devices engaged
to prevent backhoe from falling and being damaged or injuring someone.
When using a backhoe, be alert of bucket, boom and arm position at all times.

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2. SAFETY DECALS
Safety Decal Locations
Important: Warning decals are visible when getting on backhoe, r efer to the left and right hands
used in this manual, It's the position of the operator when seated in the operating position of
backhoe.
Care of Safety Decals.
1. Keep safety decals clean and free of obstructing material.
2. Clean safety decals with soap and water and dry with a soft cloth.
3. Replace damaged or missing safety decals with new decals from your FHM Dealer.
4. If a component with a safety decal(s) affixed is replaced with a new part, make sure new safety
decal(s) are attached in the same location(s) as the replaced components.
5. Mount new safety decals by applying on a clean dry surface and pressing air bubbles to outside
edges.
Location : Mainframe Location : Both of Mainframe sides
Location : Both Leg Cylinders Location : Both side of Mainframe

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Location : Beside of the locking hole at the Boom Mainframe
Location : Main Valve Cover Location : Right Leg Guard
Location : Left side Valve Lever Location : Right side Valve Lever

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Location : Side of Left Inner Lever Location : Side of Right Inner Lever
Location : Both side of Dipperstick
Location : Main Valve cover

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3. BACKHOE SPECIFICATIONS

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BH8
Cylinder
Bore Diameter Retracted Length Stroke Rod Diameter
mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch
Boom 70 2.75” 620 24.41” 385 15.16” 40 1.57”
Bucket 60 2.36” 535 21.06” 300 11.81” 35 1.38”
Dipperstick 60 2.36” 597 23.5” 378 14.88” 35 1.38”
Swing 60 2.36” 403 15.87” 212 8.35” 35 1.38”
Stabilizer 60 2.36” 446 17.56” 262 10.31” 35 1.38”
BH9
Cylinder
Bore Diameter Retracted Length Stroke Rod Diameter
mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch
Boom 70 2.75” 717 28.23” 385 15.16” 40 1.57”
Bucket 60 2.36” 620 24.41” 300 11.81” 35 1.38”
Dipperstick 60 2.36” 654 25.75” 472 18.58” 35 1.38”
Swing 60 2.36” 403 15.87” 212 8.35” 35 1.38”
Stabilizer 60 2.36” 446 17.56” 262 10.31” 35 1.38”
Bucket Teeth Qty.
12” Bucket 3
14” Bucket 3
16” Bucket 4
18” Bucket 4
20” Bucket 5
Specifications may vary depending on tractor model, tire size and bucket used.

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4. INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this manual is to assist you in maintaining and operating your BH8/BH9
backhoe. Read it carefully, it furnishes information and instructions that will help you achieve years
of dependable performance. Some information may be general in nature due to unknown and
varying conditions. However, through experience and these instructions, you should be able to
develop operating procedures suitable to your particular situation.
"Right" and "Left" as used throughout this manual are determined by facing the direction the
machine will travel when in use.
The photos, illustrations and data used in this manual are current at the time of printing, but due to
possible in-line production changes, your machine may vary slightly in detail. The manufacturer
reserves the right to redesign the machine as may be necessary without notification.
Important:
Illustrations used in this manual may not show all safety equipment that is recommended to ensure
safe operation of tractor and backhoe. Refer to the Safety Precautions section of this manual for
information concerning safety. consult your dealer for further information.
Warranty Registration
The Delivery and Warranty Registration forms must be filled out and signed to validate your warranty
protection. The items on the form under "I hereby Acknowledge" should be read and understood.
The terms and conditions of the warranty on this machine are specified in the front of this manual.
Serial Number and Location
The serial number is important information about the machine and it may be necessary to know it
before obtaining the correct replacement part. The serial number is located on the right side of
backhoe mainframe. The serial number should be recorded on the Delivery and Registration form and
also below for your reference.
CE
Farmer - Helper
Model
Serial No:
Date MFD

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5. TRACTOR PREPARATION
Rear Counterweight
CAUTION
Do not exceed the manufacturer's rating for maximum gross vehicle weight. Refer to Operator's
Manual or ROPS serial plate provided with tractor.
Certain specific conditions may not permit safe use of backhoe at backhoe rating or may require
more careful restricted operation at the rated load.
ROPS System
The tractor must be equipped with an approved ROPS System to ensure adequate operator's
protection.
Tractor Hydraulic System
Tractor operation in a backhoe application significantly increase demands on the tractor
Hydraulic System. Check the tractor Hydraulic system fluid level daily. Refer to your tractor
Operator's Manual maintenance section for instructions regarding tractor hydraulic system
maintenance.
Adhere to recommendation in your Tractor Operator's Manual concerning hydraulic fluid and filter
specifications, and change intervals.
CAUTION
The tractor/backhoe must only be operated with all safety equipment properly installed.
Tire Inflation
Front tires must be maintained at the maximum recommend-ed inflation to maintain normal tire
profile with the added weight of backhoe/material.
Rear tires must be maintained at equal pressure within the recommended tire inflation range. Unequal
rear tire inflation can prevent backhoe attachment from contacting the ground across its full width.
Wheel Tread Settings
Tractor front wheel tread setting must be restricted to wheel tread spacing recommended in the
tractor Operator's Manual.

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5.1 PT O CONNECT ION
Ensure PTO shaft is correct length, correct PTO shaft length must have a minimal overlap of
2” in drive position. See PTO Driveline manual for proper steps to reduce overall PTO
driveline length. Connect PTO shaft to tractor, PTO output shaft and backhoe hydraulic pump
shaft. Check PTO shaft has suitable angle prior to operation. Angle of PTO shaft universal
must be less than 25 degrees, to prevent major damage.
CAUTION: Backhoe should be mounted to the tractor three point linkage.
CAUTION: Never store backhoe without bucket attached to the backhoe.
CAUTION: Never raise 3-PT position/draft lever while backhoe is
connected, damage could occur to linkage and hydraulic system or
void the warranty. Use mechanical means to secure levers in down
positions.
CAUTION: It is Owner/Operator responsibility to
ensure that the tractor three point top link, tractor
frame & hydraulic lift cover area is strong enough to
accept three point rigid connection and backhoe force
while in operation as extra forces are exerted through
3-PT hitch system. No liability can be accepted for
damage to tractor.
We recommend that 3-point lift capacity at 24”
beyond the end of the lift arm be at least equal to the
weight of the backhoe.

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6. BACKHOE ASSEMBLY & MOUNTING
-After removing from crate.
-You may need suitable support to lift and hold backhoe behind 3 pt during assembly.
-Remove plug on top of Hydraulic Tank and fill with 303 or equivalent Tractor
Hydraulic Fluid to level indicator on side of tank.
USE EXTREMECAUTIONDURING CONNECTION TO THE TRACTOR.
-The 3-PT mounting frame is adjustable to suit most tractor models with Cat 1 3-PT
linkage.
1. Connect tractor 3-PT arms to lower mounting frame pins. *
2. Connect PTO and move bucket down to lift boom to move main frame into vertical
position. Lower stabilizers to balance backhoe. Raise Lift Arms until 3-PT top link
frame will be close to horizontal with top link connection on tractor. See below for
PTO Connection details.
3. Connect and Adjust top link assembly. 1 bolt under tower (Longest), 2 bolts in middle
(Medium Length), and 1 bolt to top link.
4. Connect left hand and right hand lock out brace to the correct hole and secure the
bolt and nut tightly. (Shortest Bolts)
5. Lower and manually lock the tractor 3-PT position/Draft Lever. (See Tractor’s
Operation Manual)
-Attach Seat with bolts & nuts provided.
-Operate all cylinders in and out 2 times. Check Oil Level again and fill as needed.
-Attach all safety labels
-Grease all 28 points as detailed below in Lubrication Section
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS DURING ASSEMBLY PLEASE CALL
SUPPORT AT [phone], Assembly Video is posted on Vimeo.com
* Most people will raise the lower 3-PT hitch arm
to a lever position and then adjust the main frame
to vertical. This is fine and is the best position for
safe transport, however the lower or closer the
backhoe is to the ground the deeper it can dig.

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6. BACKHOE OPERATION
CAUTION
The tractor/backhoe should only be operated with all safety equipment properly installed. Keep
assistants or by standers a safe distance from the equipment operating area.
Precautionary Notes
-Check below items before operating for your safety.
-Read and understand this manual to avoid accidents.
-Check the hydraulic fitting lines to be correct and set tightly.
-Maintain and repair (if it is needed) the parts or assemblies, check bolts and pins to be sure they are
positioned tightly.
-Check tractor with the tractor operator's manual that it can prepared for operating.
-Warm up and operate the tractor and backhoe carefully. Purge any air in the hydraulic lines and
cylinders by fully cycling all cylinders several times.
-Check hydraulic level in the tank. It should be full (Refer to the Tractor Operator's Manual).
-Do not operate the hydraulics when not seated in the back-hoe operator's seat.
-Keep all assistants out of area of operation.
-Do not operate rapidly.
-Do not allow riders other than the operator to be on the tractor while operating.
Important:
Use tractor engine speed that your experience permits. At first set PTO RPM of the tractor to slow.
Do not use the boom, dipperstick, swing and stabilizers to lift, push or full objects. This improper
use of the hoe may damage the hoe and will not be covered by warranty. They are only to be usedto
maneuver and operate the bucket.
Important:
Practice quickly turning off the engine or stopping the backhoe immediately in case of an
emergency situation.
Important:
Do not operate while the rear tractor wheels are off the ground by stabilizer. It is
dangerous to operate the backhoe while rear wheels are off the ground, and creates force
on our tractor frame that may damage the tractor.
Position vehicle so that the backhoe is as near to the pile as possible and in such a direction as to
minimize the amount of tractor turning required to dump.
Keep the unit clean and perform regular service. Observe safety messages whenever cleaning,
servicing, or lubricating.
We urge you to follow this advice:
1. Read and understand this manual as well the Tractor Operator's Manual.
2. Remember and observe the Safety Precautions brought to your attention in this manual, the tractor
manual and on the machinery itself.
3. Use good common sense in the everyday operation of this unit. Safety recommendations can never
be all-inclusive and you are responsible for watching out for and avoiding unsafe conditions.
4. Never exceed the limits of a piece of machinery. If its ability to do a job, or to do so safely, is in
question, don't try it.

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5. Don't hurry the learning process or take the unit for granted. Ease into it and become familiar
with your new backhoe and tractor.
CAUTION
When lowering a heavy load, ease it downward slowly. Never drop a loaded attachment and
"catch it hydraulically". Stopping a load after it has gained downward momentum places
undue strain on the unit and may cause unnecessary damage to the backhoe or tractor or even
worse, personal injury.
Before disconnecting hydraulic lines, relieve all hydraulic pressure. Escaping hydraulic oil
under pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate the skin causing serious personal injury. If
injured by escaping hydraulic oil, seek medical attention immediately.
CAUTION
Do not operate the backhoe if the fittings are leaking or if the hoses are damaged. A sudden line
burst would cause the boom, or dipperstick bucket to drop suddenly, causing damage to the
tractor or backhoe or injury to personnel.
Initial Backhoe Operation
Before operating the backhoe, fully raise and lower the boom, arm, swing and stabilizers two or three
times. Then raise the bucket above the ground and cycle the bucket cylinders three times. Lower
the bucket to the ground.
Check the tractor hydraulic oil and the correct oil level.
CAUTION
Before leaving the machine, stop the engine, remove the key, place all controls in neutral, and
either set the parking brake or place tractor in park as equipped.
CAUTION
Operate controls only when seated in the operator's seat.
Always keep cylinders in a retracted position when the backhoe is not in use to guard
against rust and contamination which may cause damage to the cylinder rods or hydraulic
system. Also, lock the swing and boom while tractor is moving and storing for an extended
period of time.
Cold Weather Operation
For smooth operation in cold weather, let the tractor warm up. Slowly cycle all of the cylinders
several times to warm the oil in the hydraulic system. The backhoe may operate erratically until the
hydraulic oil has warmed to operating temperatures.

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Left and Right stabilizer controls
Left and Right Stabilizer controls
Push the left hand inner control lever, left stabilizer lowers. And pull up the lever, left stabilizer
raises.
Push the right hand inner control lever, right stabilizer lowers. And pull up the lever, right stabilizer
raises.
Do not dig near the stabilizers to avoid possible accident. Do not lift the tractor rear wheels by
stabilizers. Also, be sure the stabilizers are seated on hard ground to support.
The backhoe/tractor.

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Crowd and Swing controls
Push the left hand outer control lever, arm (dipperstick) moves toward the operator, and pull back
the lever, arm (dipperstick) moves away from operator .
Move the left hand outer control lever to the left, boom swings moves to the left. Move lever right,
boom swing moves to the Right.
Bucket and Boom controls
Push the right hand outer control lever, boom moves down , and pull back the lever, boom
moves up.
Move the right hand outer control lever to the left, bucket curls in. Move lever right, bucket
extends out from operator.

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These two levers (Crowd and swing control lever, Bucket and Boom control lever) provide four
simultaneous operations. Both experience and practice are needed to eliminate excess motion and
increase operating efficiency.
Swing Lock and Boom Lock When transporting or dismounting backhoe, you must lock the
backhoe's swing and boom. Position boom straight back and drop pin through holes in swing frame
and boom. When not in use, store pin in hole provided on swing frame and boom. Observe the
following safety warnings when working with your new backhoe/tractor.
CAUTION
When using a backhoe, be aware of bucket and boom location at all times. When raising a arm
(dipperstick) with bucket rolled forward, material can spill onto non target area causing injury to
assistant or damage other objects.
Do not dig near stabilizers. Ground under stabilizers could collapse. Make all movements slow
and gradual when practicing operation.
Operate from backhoe operators seat only. Pay attention, be ready to stop, immediately in case
of an emergency.
To help prevent roll-over, adjust the rear wheels to their widest setting to maximize stability.
Refer to your Tractor Operator's Manual for recommendations.