Systems
2 hours
Learning Objectives
- •Identify and name the major systems of a combination loader/backhoe machine
- •Explain the difference between the loader (front) end and the backhoe (rear) end
- •Describe the stabilizer/outrigger system and why it is essential before backhoe digging
- •Explain ROPS/FOPS protection and seat belt requirements for backhoe loaders
Topics Covered
- •Two work ends on one machine: front loader arms and bucket; rear backhoe boom, dipper, and bucket
- •Loader end: lift arms, loader bucket, cutting edge, bucket cylinders, quick-attach plate
- •Backhoe end: boom, dipper (stick), bucket, swing frame; controlled from a rear-facing seat or swivel seat
- •Stabilizers (outriggers): hydraulic legs that must be lowered to level and steady the machine before backhoe operation
- •Stabilizer pads: street pads vs. ground (grouser) pads; correct pad for the surface
- •Loader-end float and down-pressure functions
- •ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure) and FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure) — required and must never be modified or operated if damaged
- •Seat belt requirement: SAE J386 standard; mandatory whenever a ROPS is present
- •Reverse signal alarm required by 29 CFR 1926.602 when the operator's rear view is obstructed
- •Travel configuration: backhoe locked in transport position, loader bucket low, stabilizers raised
Resources
Self-Check Questions
Question 1: What must you do with the stabilizers before operating the backhoe end of a combination loader/backhoe machine?
- A. Raise them fully to allow the machine to flex
- B. Lower them to level and steady the machine(correct)
- C. Leave them in the travel position
- D. Remove the stabilizer pads first
Show Explanation
Explanation:
The stabilizers (outriggers) must be lowered to level and stabilize the machine before backhoe digging. Digging on tires alone makes the machine unstable and can cause it to rock, hop, or tip.
Question 2: A combination loader/backhoe machine has how many separate work ends?
- A. One — the backhoe only
- B. One — the loader only
- C. Two — a front loader and a rear backhoe(correct)
- D. Three — loader, backhoe, and a center auger
Show Explanation
Explanation:
A backhoe loader (TLB) combines two work ends on one chassis: a front-end loader and a rear-mounted backhoe. The operator must understand the controls, balance, and hazards of both.
Question 3: An operator drops a backhoe loader into a ditch and the ROPS shows a visible bend. What is the required action?
- A. Straighten the bend and keep working
- B. Note the damage and report it at end of shift
- C. Remove the machine from service immediately — a damaged ROPS cannot protect the operator(correct)
- D. Have the site safety officer judge whether it is still functional
Show Explanation
Explanation:
Any structural damage or modification to a ROPS requires immediate removal from service. A bent ROPS has unknown residual strength and cannot reliably protect the operator in a rollover. Only a manufacturer-approved rebuild restores certification.
Question 4: Under 29 CFR 1926.602, when is a reverse signal alarm required on a backhoe loader?
- A. Only at night
- B. Only when traveling faster than 5 mph
- C. When the operator's view to the rear is obstructed (or a signaler must direct the backing)(correct)
- D. Never — backhoe loaders are exempt
Show Explanation
Explanation:
1926.602 requires an audible reverse alarm distinguishable from surrounding noise when the operator's rear view is obstructed; otherwise a designated employee must signal that it is safe to back up.
Question 5: Which configuration is correct for traveling (driving) a backhoe loader between locations?
- A. Backhoe extended for counterweight, loader bucket raised high
- B. Backhoe locked in transport position, loader bucket carried low, stabilizers raised(correct)
- C. Stabilizers down for stability while driving
- D. Backhoe bucket curled under the rear axle for ground clearance
Show Explanation
Explanation:
For travel, the backhoe is locked in its transport position, the loader bucket is carried low for visibility and stability, and the stabilizers are fully raised so they cannot snag the ground.
Question 6: When is a seat belt required on a backhoe loader equipped with a ROPS?
- A. Only when operating on a slope
- B. Only when traveling on a public road
- C. Whenever the ROPS is present — the belt keeps the operator within the protective zone(correct)
- D. Only if the machine lacks a cab door
Show Explanation
Explanation:
A ROPS only protects the operator if they stay inside its protective zone during a rollover. The SAE J386 seat belt is mandatory whenever a ROPS is fitted — being thrown from the cab is a leading cause of rollover fatalities.
Question 7: What is the purpose of the loader-end "float" function?
- A. It lets the loader bucket follow ground contour without applying down-pressure(correct)
- B. It raises the loader arms automatically when the engine idles
- C. It locks the loader bucket for transport
- D. It pressurizes the bucket cylinders for extra breakout force
Show Explanation
Explanation:
Float allows the loader bucket to ride along the ground surface following its contour, which is used for back-dragging and grading. It prevents the arms from forcing the bucket into the ground.