I have read all the posts and agree with those that state that LEVERAGE was responsible for the severe damage. The hoe did not "cut" through the bridge, since it is clear that the guardrails are intact on both sides. The hinge point between the boom and stick (hoe terminology) caught on the bridge, and just like a chain boomer the forward momentum forced the arm up beyond what mere potential energy from speed would normally do. By the way, a track hoe has tracks like a bulldozer and pivots 360 degrees. A backhoe is typically on a loader tractor-type affair and only pivots 180 degrees. I also disagree with the statement that the hoe is toast. A new arm and cab and it is good to go. I'm still wondering about that pucker factor though!! NL Nathan Lee
| 
