Picked up the same model as you. So far I like it but I have the same issues with the thumb. It looks to me like they just slapped a hydraulic cylinder onto a mechanical thumb without any consideration of how far it would go back. Do you have any pictures of the mod you did to the thumb to make it retract more.Added a 15GPM filter, grease fitting to thumb mount and cut and re-welded thumb bracket. Really dumb design not allowing the thumb to go further back in the up open position. I was able to get about 6 more inches which helps for fully extended digging. Also added square stock between the thumb to keep it from getting mangled again hopefully. 13 hours on the new machine without issue. It does however really heat the oil up over 180F with a lot of dozing even with a cooler and fan.