Backhoe JD 447 Backhoe Hydraulic Thumb Feasibility?

[deererunr]

Those that love their thumbs, I have a backyard full of rocks and other things to pick up and move. Installed on my 447 is the manual positioning thumb with a position locking pin. I have rented the CAT 308 & 312 excavators with impressive buckets and hydraulic thumbs. I love my JD 447, but sure could use a hydraulic thumb. Has anyone gone through the process of installing one on their 447 or 448? If so, could you please share the cost? Thanks!

 

[kennyd]

I don't have one, but know enough about hydraulics to give you a good estimate:

Cylinder: +/- $100
Diverter: +/- $75
Hoses: +/- $100
Fittings: +/- $ 75
Convenience: +/- $Priceless

 

[deererunr]

One more thing... a picture of a hydraulic thumb on a 447 or 448 would be great!

 

[GreatWhitehunter]

Deere, could you post a pic of your setup? I'm in the process of getting an fixed thumb for my 448.

Matt T.

 

[deererunr]

GreatWhiteHunter... Sorry it took so long to get a reply post to you. I don't know who makes the thumb that the JD dealer welded on, but here is a picture of it. I still have an incredible interest in turning this manual thumb into a hydraulic option. Take care, Steve

 

[jba3520]

I am also interested in the hydraulic setup that would be used for a thumb on a 447 or 448. Is there anybody out there that has a hydraulic setup on a thumb for one of these backhoes?

 

[ttkeeler]

GreatWhiteHunter... Sorry it took so long to get a reply post to you. I don't know who makes the thumb that the JD dealer welded on, but here is a picture of it. I still have an incredible interest in turning this manual thumb into a hydraulic option. Take care, Steve

That looks like a Rankin Thumb... Rankin Equipment Co.