08-21-2025, 01:32 PM
Overview
Equipping a Case 580 Super M backhoe loader with a hydraulic rock breaker (hoe-ram) can transform it from a general-purpose loader into a demolition or quarry-ready machine. Success hinges on matching hydraulic flow capabilities and safely adapting the machine. Let’s explore how and why this works—and what to watch for.
Key Terms to Know
The 580 Super M is equipped with a transmission-driven tandem gear pump. The hydraulic main relief is about 3050 psi at 38 gpm. That applies to lifting and loader circuits primarily; breaker flow must be assessed from the extend-a-hoe circuit.
Most mid-sized breakers for backhoe loaders require approximately 10–18 gpm at similar pressures.
Installation Considerations
A user installing a 450 lb skid-steer breaker (needing around 13 gpm) reported successful fitment on a 580 B backhoe via retrofit. Matching hydraulic capacity and ensuring secure hydraulic connections were critical.
Specification Snapshot
The Case 580 Super M’s robust hydraulic architecture supplies sufficient flow and pressure for light to moderate breakers when properly plumbed. This capability makes it versatile on job-sites needing selective rock-breaking without resorting to larger excavators.
Final Thought
A 580 Super M fitted with a properly selected breaker and auxiliary plumbing becomes a nimble yet powerful concrete or rock chopper. Match the hydraulic flow to the breaker requirements, confirm pressures align, and reinforce mounting points—and you’ll extend the loader’s functionality significantly, all while managing cost and complexity.
Equipping a Case 580 Super M backhoe loader with a hydraulic rock breaker (hoe-ram) can transform it from a general-purpose loader into a demolition or quarry-ready machine. Success hinges on matching hydraulic flow capabilities and safely adapting the machine. Let’s explore how and why this works—and what to watch for.
Key Terms to Know
- Rock breaker / Hydraulic hammer — a powerful percussion tool driven by hydraulic energy to break concrete or rock efficiently. Also known as a hoe-ram.
- Extend-a-hoe (dip-end telescopic arm) — an optional rear extension boom that increases digging reach. Its retracted hydraulic lines can be repurposed for hammer operation.
- Auxiliary hydraulic flow — the tractor’s hydraulic oil supply used to drive attachments like breakers, measured in gallons per minute (gpm).
The 580 Super M is equipped with a transmission-driven tandem gear pump. The hydraulic main relief is about 3050 psi at 38 gpm. That applies to lifting and loader circuits primarily; breaker flow must be assessed from the extend-a-hoe circuit.
Most mid-sized breakers for backhoe loaders require approximately 10–18 gpm at similar pressures.
Installation Considerations
- Repurposing extend-a-hoe lines — Pin the extend-a-hoe in its retracted position and connect the bonus hydraulic hoses to the breaker. Ensure your breaker’s flow requirement matches the available flow from extend-a-hoe circuits.
- Auxiliary kit option — Dedicated breaker kits are available for Case backhoe loaders that regulate multiple selectable flow settings: e.g., 8, 13, 18, 22, 26, and 30 gpm. Ideal for fine-tuning breaker performance.
- Ensure proper securing of the extend-a-hoe before applying pressure.
- Validate hose integrity and adequate pressure rating.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during attachment changes and operation.
A user installing a 450 lb skid-steer breaker (needing around 13 gpm) reported successful fitment on a 580 B backhoe via retrofit. Matching hydraulic capacity and ensuring secure hydraulic connections were critical.
Specification Snapshot
- Boom pump flow: ~38 gpm @ 3050 psi.
- Breaker typical requirements: 10–18 gpm, similar pressure.
- Aux hydraulic kit ranges: 8, 13, 18, 22, 26, 30 gpm selectable.
- Confirm available flow from extend-a-hoe is at least 10 gpm.
- Ensure breaker operating pressure matches loader’s hydraulic capacity.
- Use regulated kit if possible to avoid over- or under-driving the breaker.
- Secure and support adapter hoses and pin connections firmly.
The Case 580 Super M’s robust hydraulic architecture supplies sufficient flow and pressure for light to moderate breakers when properly plumbed. This capability makes it versatile on job-sites needing selective rock-breaking without resorting to larger excavators.
Final Thought
A 580 Super M fitted with a properly selected breaker and auxiliary plumbing becomes a nimble yet powerful concrete or rock chopper. Match the hydraulic flow to the breaker requirements, confirm pressures align, and reinforce mounting points—and you’ll extend the loader’s functionality significantly, all while managing cost and complexity.
