Extenda Hoe Wear Strips on New Holland LB75B: Maintenance and Replacement Insights

[MikePhua]

The New Holland LB75B backhoe loader is a versatile machine widely used in construction and excavation. Among its various components, the Extenda Hoe system stands out for its ability to extend the digging reach, providing enhanced flexibility for operators. However, like any piece of heavy machinery, regular wear and tear can take a toll on its components, especially the wear strips of the Extenda Hoe. This article discusses the importance of these wear strips, common issues associated with them, and the best practices for maintenance and replacement.
Understanding the Extenda Hoe System
The Extenda Hoe system is a key feature of backhoe loaders, allowing operators to extend the arm of the backhoe for greater digging reach. This system is particularly useful in applications where extra reach is required without moving the entire machine. It provides significant flexibility, making the backhoe loader suitable for a variety of tasks, including trenching, lifting, and digging in confined spaces.
However, the added functionality comes with an increased need for regular maintenance, particularly of the wear strips that facilitate the sliding motion of the Extenda Hoe system. These wear strips are essential for smooth operation and ensuring the longevity of the arm’s extension and retraction capabilities.
What Are Wear Strips?
Wear strips are components that help reduce friction and wear between moving parts of the Extenda Hoe system. They are typically made of high-density materials such as polyurethane, nylon, or composite materials, which provide durability and resistance to abrasion. These strips are placed along the sliding surfaces of the Extenda Hoe, where the boom and arm meet, to ensure smooth and efficient operation.
The purpose of wear strips is twofold:

1. Reduce Friction: By creating a buffer between moving parts, wear strips minimize friction, allowing for smoother operation and reducing the risk of component damage.
   
2. Extend Component Life: By preventing direct contact between metal parts, wear strips protect critical components from excessive wear, extending their lifespan.
   

Signs of Wear and Damage
Over time, wear strips on the Extenda Hoe system can degrade due to constant friction, exposure to dirt, and the stresses of heavy use. Below are some common signs that indicate wear or damage to the wear strips:

1. Increased Friction: If the Extenda Hoe starts to feel stiffer during extension or retraction, it may be a sign that the wear strips have worn down, causing more friction between the sliding surfaces.
   
2. Unusual Noises: Grinding, squeaking, or other abnormal noises during operation can indicate that the wear strips are no longer providing adequate lubrication or protection for the moving parts.
   
3. Visible Damage: Inspecting the wear strips regularly for visible cracks, chips, or wear marks is crucial. If the wear strips are visibly worn down or damaged, they may no longer be effective at reducing friction and protecting the Extenda Hoe components.
   
4. Reduced Performance: If the backhoe loader’s reach is less fluid or slower than usual, this could be a sign of excessive wear on the wear strips, which can reduce the efficiency of the Extenda Hoe system.
   

Causes of Wear Strip Failure
Several factors can contribute to the wear and eventual failure of wear strips:

1. High Load and Stress: Continuous heavy use, particularly in challenging digging environments, places substantial stress on the Extenda Hoe system. This can accelerate wear and tear on the wear strips.
   
2. Dirt and Debris: Dirt, sand, and other debris that get trapped in the sliding surfaces can increase friction, leading to premature wear of the strips.
   
3. Improper Lubrication: Lack of regular lubrication or the use of improper lubricants can cause friction between the wear strips and the moving parts, resulting in faster degradation.
   
4. Environmental Conditions: Exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as high temperatures, moisture, or freezing, can affect the integrity of the wear strips. Harsh environments may also introduce abrasive materials that can wear down the strips more quickly.
   

Maintaining and Replacing Wear Strips
Regular maintenance of the Extenda Hoe system is essential to keep the backhoe loader operating efficiently. Here are some steps to maintain and replace the wear strips:

1. Routine Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the wear strips, especially after heavy usage. Look for signs of wear, cracks, or other visible damage. Early detection can help prevent further damage to the Extenda Hoe system.
   
2. Cleaning: Keep the sliding surfaces free of dirt, debris, and other contaminants. Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean the components, followed by rinsing and drying. This helps reduce friction and prevent the build-up of abrasive materials that can damage the wear strips.
   
3. Lubrication: Ensure the sliding surfaces are properly lubricated. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of lubricant to use. Apply lubricant at regular intervals, especially if you notice increased friction during operation. Proper lubrication extends the life of both the wear strips and the moving components.
   
4. Replacing Wear Strips: When wear strips show signs of significant damage or wear, they must be replaced. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the replacement process. Typically, the old wear strips will need to be removed, and new ones will be installed in their place. Ensure that the new wear strips are made of the same material and dimensions as the originals for optimal performance.
   
5. Use Genuine Parts: When replacing wear strips, always opt for genuine parts from the manufacturer. Aftermarket parts may not meet the required specifications and could lead to poor performance or further damage to the Extenda Hoe system.
   

Cost of Replacement and Downtime
Replacing wear strips on the New Holland LB75B’s Extenda Hoe system is an essential maintenance task, but it can incur some costs. The price of replacement wear strips varies depending on the material, size, and supplier. Additionally, there may be labor costs associated with removing the old strips and installing the new ones.
However, the cost of replacement is minimal compared to the cost of potential damage to the Extenda Hoe system if the wear strips are not maintained. Operating the machine with worn-out wear strips can result in more significant damage to the arm, hydraulic system, or other components, leading to higher repair costs and longer downtime.
Real-World Example: A Case of Extenda Hoe Maintenance
One operator shared their experience with a New Holland LB75B on a construction site. They noticed that the Extenda Hoe system had become sluggish and noisy during operation. After performing an inspection, they discovered that the wear strips were excessively worn and no longer provided the necessary protection. The operator replaced the strips and applied fresh lubrication, which restored the machine’s performance. This simple maintenance task saved the operator from more costly repairs and reduced downtime significantly.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance of the Extenda Hoe system, particularly the wear strips, is critical for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of the New Holland LB75B backhoe loader. By performing regular inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and timely replacement of wear strips, operators can ensure that their machine continues to perform at optimal levels. Addressing wear and tear early on can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the backhoe loader, keeping it productive on the job site for years to come.