I can do it, its been a long time since using a 4 lever backhoe, I can remember running an old dynahoe that was 4 lever, and of course the same discussion ensuing at times. My opinion was joystick controls, like on modern backhoes, (CAT setting, is just fine for me)is still better. Maybe some call it excavator controls in other areas.I can perform any task with ease, need a light touch, no problem. Operating the backhoe in one fluid motion vs. jerky uncoordinated, beginner moves,dangerous to someone working in the trench or near you is just easier and safer, well that is until you get used to the 4 lever, and I can't say I could exhibit the same finesse as a joystick or 2 lever. Thats just me, I think the 4 lever is a thing of the past, would prefer the 2 stick for many reason, however if thats what I had or was paid to run I'd try to master it, it does take more coordination. When I was a kid we sold Ford tractors, and backhoes, 3500-6500's, all were 4 lever, seemed most were back then.
So many years later while in between jobs, and for the 2nd time, I went to the operating engineer school in NJ Local #825, to test on all their machines, figured I could do that and make a decent buck, same as I was in management, having over 4 years full time experience and all the years growing up around equipment, no problem. Showed my skills were excellent on all, loader, excavator, dozer, then they had a Case, foot swing, never even heard of one let alone run one of these, well I told the guy observing, don't laugh, first time ever on one, still got the trench dug, just took a few steps to learn it. YOu probably will adapt after a day or so, no I hated that arrangement, due to the situation but again, won't knock it, as if assigned to run one of these, you just have to adapt. Another waste of time, was more about who you knew, then your skills, never did get in and tried 2 locals back then.
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