I can certainly understand the need to increase the surface area, but why increase the height?
Do you expect to actually sink the pads to reach more solid ground?
I keep my tires just off the ground.
lowest possible tractor CG is a good thing IMHO.
Agree with keeping CG low as possible. Some ground is soft so increasing area and height will help. Digging on slopes also need height to plumb machine for stability. 5.5” longer should help tipping sideways.
Increased pad weight from 21 to 82#.
Rubber pads helped sliding on all surfaces on other backhoe. Kinder on hard surfaces and landscaping.
Pairs well with recent excavator quick attach buckets.