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This post is more as an update for those researching the Predator 425 Backhoe Loader.

I purchased one of these used in 2009 and it is a great machine. Super powerful for its size and can dig over 11� deep with the hoe. I�ve lifted over 2,500 lbs with the loader and it didn�t even hesitate. It is 4WD (can opt out for 2WD), and is front steer. Steering radius has been just fine and I have not felt the need for 4 wheel steering.

As for parts and repair: Bobcat does not support these, nor would you want to purchase parts that way . . . it is expensive.

The Engine: The Lister-Petter engine is a world class industrial engine, and is well supported for parts and accessories. Air, fuel, oil filters can be purchased at NAPA or other parts stores.

Hydrostatic Drive Motors: Char-Lynn Eaton (DANA Corp.) hydraulic motors made in the USA & still in production.

Hydraulic cylinders: Metric but should have domestic equivalents if replacement is needed. I had one of mine rebuilt for $75 � new seals, etc. as it had a small seal leak. Works like new!

Gauges & Switches: generics will work if replacements are needed. I replaced the ignition switch on mine for $10.

Backhoe operation: Super smooth and very easy � not jerky like many of the other small units I�ve used.

Loader operation: Again smooth and easy. Lifts an incredible amount of weight for its size.

Seat: Multi-purpose, spins 180 deg. Only need 1 seat to operate the unit & backhoe.

Overall Costruction: Rugged! Frame is plenty thick; decking is thick diamond plate steel.

Axles: Weak Weak Weak! This is the only shortcoming I found. I broke the front CV u-joints very quickly. Instead of simply replacing the U-Joints I totally rebuilt the axle hub to hub & redesigned the H-Yoke CVs into a single u-joint of much larger size on each size (much like you see on a 4WD truck. The result was a much stronger axle with all new parts (bearings, fasteners, seals, gaskets, retaining rings, etc.) The differential was taken apart & inspected, but was not in need of a rebuild. I made the gaskets & modified the U-joints in my shop (now using an inexpensive heavy duty Spicer 1350 series). The bearings, retaining rings, fasteners, etc. were all available through suppliers like Fastenal.

I also broke the rear pinion. Major components for these differentials are not available as far as I could tell. I simply removed the rear axle and replaced it with a stronger one, A Ford 8.8. The Ford axle was a good candidate for several reasons. (1) It is stronger (bigger ring gear, thicker pinion, thicker shafts), (2) inexpensive (about $250 used), (3) Well supported in the aftermarket for parts, (4) has some desirable features such as a flat mounting flange for the hydrostatic motor mounting, & gussets on the differential case for mount surfaces. I replaced the gear set with one that closely matched the front gear set on the Predator. While doing this I cleaned it all up, installed new bearings & seals & made a few brackets to mount the axle to the tractor and the hydrostatic motor and parking brake to the differential.

This turned out to be a bit more work than I had anticipated, but in the end, with the axles replaced/improved, it is an unbeatable machine for the money. I�ve put it back to work with the new & rebuilt axles & hubs without any further incidents. Aside from the front CVs & pinion, the rest of the machine is built very tough & strong.

Need C-V joint for front wheel on 1997 Predator 425 backhoe
Parts and Repair
Replies 12 Post by Pred425