Though small it had a lot of lifting power. I had to move several
large concrete slabs and since the thumb didn't move with the bucket
there was a lot of fussing around picking up and positioning the
concrete slabs. Since lots of rocks will be moved the thumb will be
very handy.

Eric,

You just need more practice using your hoe. You can release fluid on the
thumb while applying full pressure to the bucket to roll the bucket in.
(feather one valve while other is pulled all the way) Reverse operation to
roll bucket out.

Copy the design for your thumb from any similar hoe.

Doesn't your neighbor do this for a living? he can show you how. Not at all
hard once you get on to it.

Remember, running a backhoe is the most fun that can be had, with all your
clothes on.

Karl