Why Not to Buy a Tractor Backhoe (the 4 reasons I haven't)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 มิ.ย. 2024
- I had a question from a viewer about whether backhoes for tractors were worth the investment or whether it made more sense to rent one when needed. I don't own a backhoe for my tractor and probably never will, and here are the four reasons why...
First, backhoes are difficult to get on and off the tractor. Some brands of backhoes require removing the tractors lower link arms to mount. Even if they don't, getting everything unhooked and driving out of the backhoe is stressful and time-consuming. Getting one back on is more so. They're a little like a front end loader in that, if they've settled while being unattached from the tractor, it can be an ordeal to get them hooked up again. It's really better to have two people working involved in the process.
Secondly, I don't like to leave my equipment outside. It's the old farmer mentality in me, my dad never lied to let any piece of equipment sit outside and backhoes take up a lot of room in a barn or machine shed. If I had a brand new backhoe sitting in the fence row weathering, it would bother me, and there's no way I have room right now to put something like that in my barn.
Third, I really don't have that many jobs for a backhoe. There are times it would be nice to use for landscaping or burying a dead animal, but most of the time it would sit idle.
Finally, I personally feel I have much better options if I need holes dug. In the long run, rental is going to be much more cost effective for me than buying, I also have a friend who owns a full-size backhoe and he's spent a lifetime running it so if I have a need for a big hole dug I call him. Ironically his name is Doug...his slogan should be "Have Your Holes Dug by Doug." Am I not a marketing genius?
I've written articles about selling farm equipment for trade publications and here's one I did a few years ago that has a great quote: www.rurallifestyledealer.com/.... A dealer said that he didn't like selling backhoes to customers who planned to dig stumps out with them. His quote was “The customer thinks he can clear a 20-acre field of stumps with that set-up and he won’t live long enough for that."
I'll likely get a lot of blow back from this video from people who have owned backhoes and would never be without one and that's fine. If you have a lot of jobs for a backhoe attachment and would never be without one, by all means, get it! But if you're shopping I want to make sure you consider all the factors before investing in such an expensive piece of equipment and have weighed the alternatives.
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I'm too old to not own a backhoe. It has limitations, but not as limited as a shovel.
Or a wheelbarrow.
Sage words good Sir.
That's why I bought one!
"I want a smaller house and a bigger barn, I want a barn that you can see from the space shuttle." best quote of the 21st century IMHO
I have a backhoe and it doesn’t take that much time to take it off and put it back on. It’s not that bad when taking out stumps also. I love my backhoe and I have never regretted buying it Thanks J.L.
I have to agree. I just got a 2019 John Deere 3032E with the backhoe and it takes me about 5 to 10 minutes to put it on. It only takes about 3 minutes to take it off. Digging stumps has not been to bad with it. You do make a bigger hole than expected. It takes me about 15 minutes to dig out a 12 to 15' stump. that makes about a 3 foot wide hole. I just dug a 9'x6'x 6' deep hole for my propane tank. That took me about 3 hours. you have to remember that it is not a full size backhoe and things will take a little longer. I also dug the crawl space out for my home with it. I estimate that with the small number of projects I have done with it It has paid for about half of the cost of it so far and I only had the tractor for about 4 months now. The backhoe cost $7,500. My next project is a koi duck pond. Then I will be digging a bigger pond for a watering hole for my cows and goats.
I agree, I have a Sub-compact John Deere with a backhoe, it takes about 15 minutes to install and remove, no it is not big enough to dig a basement but it works great for grubbing stumps. 2 pins and 2 hydraulic hoses and it is off or on, I have a Bxpanded dolly so I can move the backhoe anywhere on a firm surface. I think Tractor Mike should address this subject again, maybe not so dead set against backhoes!
I believe what your saying. I'm 70 and I just don't have the help or the strength when I need it. Mike's video makes sense to me. I could do a lot of things before.
The first time I took my backhoe off (and put it on again) took a whole 6 minutes with one person demoing it at the dealership. Only takes 2 minutes to remove it now. Three if the pins are stuck and I have to use a rubber mallet, but some cleaning and grease can fix that. How easy it was to remove the backhoe sold me on it. If it takes two people and a lot of time, you probably need a better design.
@@edwardbigham7713 Exactly! And it's about HOW you use the tractor implements.
For a duck pond a neat trick is to use the backhoe to dig a trench just wide enough for the tractor to do the rest with the front loader, that way you'll be pushing the frontloader into the soil instead of using the hydraulic pressure of the frontloader to dig in it, or spend hours on the backhoe!
Saving both time and wear & tear on tractor and implements ^^
I’ve recently bought a tractor with a backhoe attachment. You do seem to make a lot of new friends with it.
True story. Much like a guy with a long bed truck.... Hey I'm moving.... Help? I have beer.
Thats true. My backhoe attachment payed for itself and the tractor in a 2 year time frame. Ive had it 25 years now and have I ever saved so much money having it.
After alot of thought and two seperate week long rentals of a backhoe, I bought a Kubota MX5200 with a backhoe this June. It cost me $1200 for each rental and was a marathon and time off work to get as much done as I could while I had it. I figured I could do 5-6 projects and it would be about as much as the rental and I could take my time to do the project. Especially since I plan to have this tractor for many years. My current project is installing a new line 45' from my house to my well. I have found the Kubota backhoe to be very easy to put on and take off and just two hose connections. The hassle is taking the 3 point arms on and off but not terrible once you are familiar with it. I agree that leaving one outside is disheartening and they do take up some space. I am fortunate enough to have a barn big enough for the tractor and all attachments and implements. Storing it at an angle in the corner seems to take up less space. I have been surprised about how many small projects that it has been made easier and faster because I have the backhoe. I think it is safe to say that a backhoe is not for everyone but I am glad I bit the bullet and got a backhoe with my tractor.
Reason #5: They’re ‘moocher bait’. Everyone will ask to borrow it but no one will offer to rent it. Nothing wrong with helping people out, except when it’s the same people who never return the favor, and even have the audacity to break stuff then pretend it was already broken when they got it.
your correct on this comment...ive seen it personally in my life
I'm for rent by the hr thats my answer
I dont loan anything to anybody, anymore especially a tractor, backhoe etc. We used to loan out our cattle trailers and flat bed trailers and they would come back nasty or jacks broken, things bent but would not fix it or even apologize so we stopped all that crap!
This is very true. The same neighbors who will spend $5000 on a new watch or $500 on a new pair of Oakley sunglasses will balk at paying $19.95 to buy you a new saw blade after running yours in the dirt for a week. It must be 100 times worse with a heavy equipment.
Never loan out, your tools, your car or your wife/gf.
You never get them back in the same condition.
I dug a 30" stump by hand years ago with a shovel and a demolition hammer and a rope and a chain. It took about 20 hours.
I operate an electrical contracting business and a grounds repair business. I use both my large tractor (JD5075E) and my small tractor (JD1025R) for both ventures. Mike you're absolutely right, I thought about all of the issues you talked about and bought one anyway. I've run many mini-excavators over the years and can say that a TLB doesn't come close to the speed, efficiency, and power of a mini-ex. However, it's on my small tractor and I can get it in tight places, for most electrical trenching is never past 2 feet deep, it's always available (I only have one rental shop here and there's a lot of times that they don't have on available or they're broken, or they're used up pieces of garbage). New ones are awesome. For now my little digger is working although not anywhere near as fast and want to get a mini sometime down the road. They're very expensive to buy and don't need them all that often. But mine's in the garage right now if I need it. That's a relief from the already hectic scheduling process to say the least, especially when the weather can screw up your plans at the last second. The rental thing becomes a nightmare. If I get a job that's out of my backhoe's league, I rent a good size mini. No free lunches here either.
Ya know what? I just want one. Period. I’ve busted my ass for many years and dammit I deserve it! LOL. Seriously tho, I do use it quite a bit now that I have one! Diggin dirt is AWESOME therapy!
In theory, owning a backhoe is rarely a pure money-wise decision. It's all about the fun of using it while serving a certain purpose. As some people say, it's therapeutic!
A few years ago I bought a LS tractor with the backhoe attachment, and I love it! It digs out stumps and trenches like crazy, and I'd hate to be without it. But when I finally took the backhoe off, I found that 3-point equipment doesn't work at all. The dealer is too far away and can't do much of anything on the phone. If you need it, get the backhoe, but as soon as you get it (after playing with the backhoe, of course) take it off and test the 3-point hydraulics. I'd even suggest installing the backhoe only to do a task, then take it back off again. Equipment that doesn't get used regularly will stop working - happens all the time!
I have a new Holland workmaster 40 with a sub-frame mounted Woods backhoe. It's not difficult to get on and off, the 3 point arms can stay on, and the hydraulics connect in seconds. I also store it inside. I'm happy I bought it for small digging projects and have used it roughly 50 hours the last year. The biggest issue I have is maneuverability. It makes the tractor very long. I live in hilly western Pennsylvania and I have to be very careful with all the weight on the back sticking out. A small excavator would be way easier to maneuver but I needed a tractor for other work besides digging. I appreciate the vids Mike, thanks for all that you teach.
Just ordered a bh 75 for my New Holland TC34DA hoping the arms can stay on. i have a laurin cab also on.
I agree with everything you say about a backhoe but I still love mine. Yes, they’re a pain to install and remove, to store under cover and to remove stumps (I now hire a stump grinder). I have used mine to dig trenches for water, electric and drain lines but those uses have occurred infrequently and may not occur again. I use mine now to dig a trench in the garden every year to bury my compost piles. I have done this many times with a shovel and it’s not much fun. The euphoria I get when I use the backhoe is well worth the hassles.
Hey Mike always enjoy the channel. Compact Kioti CK2610 with backhoe. 5 minutes off and 10 minutes on. Bought it for many reasons, one of which was to clear 19 tree stumps out on a new piece of property. Neighbors thought I was nuts to dig them out. Not a problem.
I have a backhoe on our 2520 and it works great for stumps. U r correct about a second person to help hook it up. I would not be without one now that I have had one. The trick to backhoe and stumps is to cut the tree higher than normal so you can use leverage to help push out stumps.
Mike.Thank you for this type of news. U are wiseing up a lot of people how just don't know. Thanks again.
I like the way you think, I purchased my tractor without a backhoe for some of the same reasons you mentioned. Thanks for posting and being honest with your opinion.👍👍
I love my tractor backhoe! It’s also a breeze to get on and off. Also, if your investing in the backhoe you may as well get the thumb with it.
Hay Mike, i have a backhoe for my Yanmar yt235. You are correct about taking it off and on. But i have dug up 12 bradford trees. It wasnt easy on some of them,but over all it was ok. I even used it to carry the stumps to my burn pile. I use mine to run water pipe, electrical wires. Put a septic tank and field lines. The backhoe is really strong (it will pick up the front end of my tractor) and so far very reliable. Great clip...
Hi Mike,
I've seen some compact tractors that have backhoes that are relatively easy to get on an off. Yes, you are correct about digging out stumps. A smaller backhoe will dig out small stumps, but recently I had to dig out several recently cut 24"-30" oak stumps. I used a full sized construction backhoe, and each one took a couple of hours. I had to go down about 6' and like you mentioned, the holes were enormous. A full sized excavator is a much better option if the stumps have to be completely removed. Which brings up another point. Instead of renting a backhoe, a much better option would be to rent a comparably sized excavator. It gets into smaller confined spaces, and will easily outdig a backhoe in less time.
Hello Mike,
I have just purchased a backhoe for my Kioti and it uses a sub frame for attachment. It takes me about 10 minutes to dismount it, and 15 min to mount it back on. The clearance is such that I do not have to remove anything to mount, not even the drawbar. I have a lot of trenching and digging to do on my property for some construction. Thus, I priced someone to do it for me ant that was $6k. To rent a unit for the time required was $4k. The amount of clearing and other work I have to do will make the system pay for itself within less than a year. Given your situation I would not buy one as well, but as normal, everyone's situation is different. Like your channel.
In my opinion you are totally correct about not owning a backhoe and I don't do that much digging, but when I need to there is the rental place in my area where you can rent one. I saw a tractor at one area cemetery which had broken in half and the backhoe was still intact, but useless due to the problem with the tractor. The tractor and backhoe was nearly new too and a major brand too.
Thanks Mike, I'll certainly remember the space shuttle analysis when It's time to build another barn with more storage, horse stalls, buggy/cutter storage, welding shop, machine shop with 20 ton truck lift, furniture shop...I'll think of the other things "I'll need" a bit later.
We used to have a 1995 Ford 1220 with a loader and back actor, brilliant bit of kit! We dug ditches, gardens and even house footings! The back actor never came off for all the years we had it, as the old Ferguson t20 did all the tractor work.
New hobby farmer here, New Kubota 2501, and I have always wanted a backhoe. Money is no object, lol, and I think all your points are valid. One more reason I can add, It makes a cumbersome piece of equipment much more so. The ideal solution for me would be a mini excavator. far better for digging, reaching out into my pond to clean out the weeds, and just cooler all around. Again , money is no object, and again, lol. Just on more mechanical contraption to maintain. Dollars and sense, there must be some yearly hourly minimum usage to justify either. Timely video, Thank You.
I love my backhoe, use it all the time - dug a 300’ water line, drainage ditches, great for digging holes for fence posts (great in rocky soil conditions), dig footers for retaining walls. And Mike is right on stumps but it came in handy for one stump that needed removal vs renting a stump grinder. On my Kioti putting on and taking off is easy and it is on and off several times a year.
I have 23 acres and have lots of work to justify a backhoe so I bought it. I get alot of work done that I could not afford to get done otherwise.
I would have to agree as to why I also haven’t bought a BH as an implement. I’ve also been told using it with force past its limitations can break a compact tractor in half. They make kits you can add as a stabilizer. I almost bought a Kubota B21 which is a tractor with a dedicated backhoe that was made back in the 2000’s. I heard good things about it and it got good reviews. I ended up buying a subcompact Kubota KX-41 mini excavator and absolutely love it. I use it all the time for my line of work. I agree about the work involved removing a stump. I have a stump bucket for my skid steer. After exposing the trunk and roots I make cut marks with a chainsaw and pry out the stump with the stump bucket. I have a thumb on the stump bucket so when I am done it is easy to load up the debris into my dump trailer.
You’re the man! Thanks so much for your insightful videos. Been a long time fan. Keep em’ coming!
I have no problem getting my backhoe on/off my tractor 10 -15 minutes. To get from tractor to backhoe 5 minutes at the most. I'm 71.
I can take my backhoe off my kubota in about 5 minutes and Maybe 7 minutes to put it back on
Same here.
I have a John Deere 1025r. I use my backhoe a lot. Digging trenches, stumps, planting trees, bushes. I wouldn't be without it. It also makes a great counter weight for heavy loads on my loader. I can take of my backhoe within 5 min. same as putting it on just 2 pins and 2 quick release hoses.
Okay, first let me say that I'm an almost 66-year-old, short (less than 5' tall), overweight woman. I bought my tractor four years ago. After having it for two years, I decided to get a backhoe because all too frequently I'd come upon a job I needed to do and didn't have anything to dig. I dug a big stump out the first time just to get familiar with using it. Yes, it made quite a large hole, but it sure was a lot of fun. Then I had a bunch of rose of Sharon that was growing inside a water run-off ditch and I wanted to move them to the yard. Backhoe to the rescue! Anyone have ornamental grasses in their yard? I do, and they are almost impossible to thin out by hand. The root system on them is unbelievable, but a backhoe makes short work of them. I got the mechanical thumb with mine and it sure does come in handy. I have a creek at the bottom of my pasture and there are always trees down crossing the creek. Again, backhoe to the rescue. Sometimes I have to get the chainsaw out and cut some of it up, but the backhoe is invaluable to me to lift the logs up out of the creek and move it to the side. I can then hook a chain onto it and move it to the burn pile.
This summer I had the brush hog on the tractor which means I had the 3-point on. My neighbor's wife had a little donkey that died and he asked me if I would bury it for them. Yes, it's a little bit of a pain to have to take the 3-pt off to use the backhoe, but I'm getting better at it and if I can do it in less than 30 minutes, I can guarantee you that a man, especially a younger one, can do it even faster. I have little strength in my hands because of a lot of arthritis, but I still get it done. Just last week I took the brush hog off and put the backhoe on. All told it took me about 45 minutes to an hour. There again, it wasn't because the job is all that hard, it's because I'm not as able as most. One thing that I learned when installing the backhoe. Make sure you take all the pressure off the hydraulic system of the tractor before hooking up your backhoe hydraulic hoses. They would slide on like butter if you get the pressure off. Honestly, this last time I put the backhoe on, it took me less than 15 minutes. Sorry, I didn't mean to write a book, but I love my backhoe. It's one of my most useful and favorite toys. I've dug ditches for drainage, buried a goat and even used to bury a cat. Mainly because it's fun to operate. You may or may not have many reasons to use it, but if you do I think you'll be pleased. There's always a learning curve, but be patient and keep at it. You will be happy you did.
I hope the cat was dead before you buried it. I just had an image pop in my head of a woman in a tractor riding around yelling “Here, kitty kitty kitty.”
Hat's off to you for being willing to get out there and get it done.
I bought a 2004 NT304 tractor and It had a Ameriquip Backhoe on it. These units are only available on John Deer tractors so parts are at a premium price at JD dealers. It was one of the best purchases I ever made. I got it cheep and I love this unit for digging out tree stumps on my property the secret to digging out stumps is you have to dig the tree out and let the tree fall under its own weight with a little push with your backhoe. I've never taken it off so I can see your point about removing it.. I have a Ls XG3037 for bush hogging and moving dirt so never have a need to remove it. good job on the video.
Mike I own a Kubota BX with a backhoe it can be taken off in one minute and put on in the same amount of time, faster than any 3 point implement . It is very user friendly and easy to operate
My rebuttal to yout first 3 reasons:
1. I have a Kioti CK2510. It is very easy to attach or remove the backhoe. One man job. I did not buy a Mahindra, Yanmar or Kubota for those reasons. No need to remove any linkage with Kioti. And Kioti has a separate seat for the backhoe operator.
2. I put a tarp over mine and bungee it tight. Not the same as a barn but it stays nice under there.
3. You never know when you might need to dig a ditch or remove a rock.
I agree with all your comments the backhoe attachment is a bit of a problem to put on and take off. I do have one on a Kubota l39 it works well and I have dug many swimming pool sized holes trying to get stumps out lol. But it is handy and I love having it. I agree the subframe is a must and the swivel seat takes care of the getting on and off issue
I use my backhoe (with thumb) almost every day I use my tractor. I do a lot of logging, and it's a big help. Holding up logs while I buck them, moving logs and trees, holding dangerous limbs while cutting them off, digging out stumps, planting trees. But I agree - it's a big PITA switching between backhoe and 3-point hitch. I would much rather have a tractor with 3-point and a separate mini excavator if I had the money.
AND moves rocks if you've got a lot of big rocks around (I do)
Mike, thanks for the video. It all seems like sound advice but in the end, we all have to make our own decisions. I purchased a "dreaded" 3 pt hitch backhoe for my Massey Ferguson 2605H and I have never regretted it. Taking it off is as simple as lowering the unit, putting down the legs, and pulling 3 pins. I like to use jack stands to help support because inevitably the hydraulics will leak down over time. Connecting it is more time consuming and takes me about two hours working alone. But having a hoe where and when I need it has proven invaluable to me. Last year we used it to replace the pond overflow after the road caved in, we dug 800 yards of trench for irrigation lines, we moved two pecan trees the power company wanted to cut down, etc. Again, not for everyone but I have had great service out of mine....and I lend it out all over the place to others.
i got a 1985 massey ferguson 1040 perfect condition 1809 hours thinking of getting a 720 wellenstein backhoe attachment for it for 6k. need it for digging decent size stumps and rocky terrain. 8-12” stumps. should i be worried about the frame at all?
Good points all Mike. I own a Kioti 4010 HST with a back hoe and it's super easy to disconnect and reconnect. Takes less than 5 minutes. Two secrets to that I think, 1, use the outriggers and the hoe to create a tripod to hold the pressure when disconnecting the pins, ease the tractor forward about 6 inches (hydrostatic transmission makes this easy) and 2, be sure to bleed the pressure off the system. When reconnecting, get close, connect the hydraulic lines and re-energize the backhoe hydraulics. Use the 3 point system to properly position the backhoe to align the connection points. Then use the hydrostatic transmission to each it back. I make any small adjustments with the backhoe hydraulics to complete mating the system. The first time took me about 30 minutes to understand the physics of using the backhoe in a 3 point stance, but once i understood that, now easy pezy. And i use mine often, cleaning out the creek, digging holes to plant new trees at the farm, lifting various building parts up high, and lots more. And love what you do, also loving my tractor caddy on my Ford tractor. Makes all kinds of good sense to have that! Need to get one for all of my tractors. I have 5 so I guess I have tractor fever and the only possible cure is "just one more".
We've got a Kubota 5740 with a sub frame mounted Kubota backhoe (made in the USA) and whilst I respect your point of view and conclusion Mike I think it's pretty obvious that each owner/operators requirements are varied so to make generalized comment will apply to some, but not all operators.
On our unit removal of the backhoe is not hard but admittedly the thought of changing implements can be a bit irksome. However, we find the backhoe to be an indispensable bit of kit.
We view your interesting clips from Victoria, Australia.
Agriculture and small holdings seem to share a fair bit in common on both continents.
Not sure I agree with your theory on the backhoe but I do enjoy your advice
Years ago, I considered a subcompact TLB and realized I would hardly ever use the backhoe and passed on the idea. Early this year I decided that a subcompact TLB would make things easier in the barn at this point in time. I compared mini skid steers and excavators, but considering price and payment options, the TLB was the best deal. I don't use it a lot, but it is there when I need it and I don't need to remove the backhoe, as I have 2 old compact tractors. TLBs are the Swiss Army Knife of small equipment, but it is a good option for small timers. One other thing, dead horses aren't that big of a deal to move and it is usually quite uneventful when you drag them. We had a horse farm for many years and handling the carcass is anti-climactic compared to the euthanasia.
I have a jd 485a and love love love it. I moved 5 apple trees by scooping it up and driving to new location, I use it once a week I think. When I cut down a tree I dig the stump. I can dig a 8 ft hole .
Thanks for the information. I agree even though I own a good TLB (John Deere 1025R, Tractor, Loader, Backhoe). The reason I bought it was for one big project initially. The TLB was worth about half of what it cost just for that one big project. Then, for the next few decades I will have a TLB to utilize for little projects such as digging stumps, repairing utility lines, planting trees, helping the neighbors, etc. It is so nice to have a machine to immediately hop on and get a small job done. The front end loader saves my back time and time again. The pallet forks are used much more than initially anticipated.
However, if I had not done the one big project the cost of the machine would not have been justified. The reason I agree with you is that most people do not have a big project that justifies a large portion of the cost of a machine. It is a costly investment that is accompanied by ongoing maintenance costs. The building expense to house the machine is a cost to be considered also.
I feel land size would have great influence on this decision. For me with 41 acres I could use a backhoe often. But could probably use a large mini ex more. $9,000 upgrade for a backhoe on my Bobcat tractor is pretty steep. But they do say the stability is pretty nice on the compact tractors over some mini excavators.
I have a Kioti DK45 with Sub Frame mounted Backhoe, I love it and it's tricky but not that hard to change out especially with practice. It makes a great counter weight for picking up heavy items with the front end loader. I would much rather have a mini Excavator or backhoe but can't have everything. You do bring up a lot of good points, I don't particularly love taking it off so it stays on most of the time and I save up all the other jobs and do them at once then put backhoe back on. I do not loan it out, I will use it to help others but they do not operate it.
Good evening. I purchased a 1626 tlb. I'm digging out my 10th set of stumps. But I've made peace with the bigger holes. I also made peace with the longer times per size of stump.
Its a 1626,not a 310JD or equivalent. So I've got to pick and choose correctly to not abuse my equipment in the application. But most don't.
I bought 40 hardwooded acres with the house from a widow who couldn't afford/ physically upkeep the property. 39.25 acres are wooded,while the rest is yard.
After 12 yrs of neglect, the treeline was hugging the house. I spent 1800 dollars for a 1 wk rental of a brushcutter and T650 track skidsteer.
I took down pencil to 14" material, knocking the treeline back as well as thinning out the woods.
Your correct about removing and installing the backhoe, it's cumbersome at times but not having to rent a mini,a trailer to haul it or pay for delivery and pickup is worth it to me. I'm waiting on my thumb to show up, can't wait.
Hope this helps anyone. Be safe.
Mike this is a great video,
I have a small compact Kubota and I have a backhoe for it that I love although I do not use it as often as I would like. I could rent but that's always a pain in the butt and when I do have a job for the backhoe I like to be able to just hook it up and go. That being said it is grossly expensive and I probably would save more money than I just rented.
This is exactly correct but I recently purchased a Kioti 3520 with a backhoe and am using it all the time. For me it makes sense to own one but for most people I totally agree with you on everything you pointed out in this video. Good information.
i am not going to argue--you have given helpful perspective and information.
I have just recently purchased a Kioti CK4010se HST tractor with a (subframe) KB2475L backhoe.
I am happy with the choice so far.
it is a very big implement--storing it well is going to require some thought and compromises.
I should create a video on my own page as to why I am happy with this decision and to share my tractor experiences.
my tractor purchase and use experience has been immensely improved by you and other video creators. Hopefully the relatively small contribution I may make will help others as well.
you will love the backhoe! that ck4010se is a nice tractor
Steve I have a CK4010 HST with the 2475L. Use the bucket lever toward the empty position on the ground to push the backhoe onto the rails when it sticks a little. It will go right in.
@@daveknowshow
I did not see your reply/comment until now!
I have been subscribed to your channel since before i got my tractor. You are one of the people that helped my decide what i thought i needed and then how to use it.
@@sloppyjoe6243
i built a wood frame (with heavy load supporting wheels) to go under the backhoe, and it greatly facilitates removing, attaching, and storing the backhoe -- using techniques such as you mentioned. I will keep that specific technique in mind -- as i head out to put the backhoe back on right now. !!
I wish I had thought ahead when I bought mine. I envisioned all kinds of projects where it would be handy. Well, lets just say it was a VERY expensive lesson. I've used it 3 times. It sits behind my shop looking very pretty under its' tarp. I could have rented a machine many, many, many times for what I paid. Wish I could sell it. But I will argue the getting on and off. It only takes about 20 minutes and that includes the 3pt hitch removal/install. Not to bad in the grand scheme. Thanks for the vid Mike and take care.
A tractor backhoe is not for everyone, but mine was a must-have when I bought my mahindra compact tractor. We raise llamas and alpacas and inevitably we lose some each year to age or sickness. The backhoe makes short work of burying them. We also have a camel and an old horse. We’ll see if the tractor backhoe is up to the task of burying them when the time comes. If it weren’t that unfortunate need, I would definitely have gone with the rent-if-needed approach (and probably gotten a cab instead). Thanks for all the great videos Mike!
I'm an owner of a subcompact backhoe with no regrets of my purchase. I have used it for several small tasks and realize that there are limitations to what you can accomplish with it. For one big project I did a few years ago I had to borrow a full size machine, I knew the limits of my machine and needed more reach. Removing small stumps or shrubs is not difficult at all and the remaining hole is easier to deal with than the mess left by grinding. I don't own a stump grinder so my experience is limited to hiring someone who does. The results have been successful but made a mess and left a low spot that had to be filled in. Removal or installation takes just a few minutes on mine. I would mostly agree with your assessment of the subject particularly on the storage and cost aspects. That said when I trade in my current tractor, the next one will still be backhoe equipped. Great points you made in the video and applicable for most people.
Depending on the size of tractor and the cost of the backhoe you maybe right. But on a subcompact or compact tractor I have to disagree. My Kubota BX easy on easy off store on a dolly and move it where you want. In the four years I have owned it has paid for it self. But when I was tractor shopping I looked at tractors with subframe mounting and first thought was where am I going to store it. I keep all my equipment under roof so I understand what you are saying. 👍
I never had a Tractor mounted backhoe for the reasons you mentioned- and i bought a JD 970 in '98 which didn't offer one at the time anyway... but I found I did need a backhoe. In 2011 I found a cheap CAT rubber tire 416B and fell in love with it. Had a 4 in one bucket 4wd, extend-a-hoe, you name it, and the thing was just so useful over the years (although I think I changed every hose on the damn thing). I built a small pond, cleared probably 3-4 acres and generally used it as much as I could for water/electrical, moving trees for firewood, etc..... anything I couldn't do with the JD970. I sold it last year for basically what I paid for it- using the money to help pay for a new Yanmar 47HP tractor. Unfortunately- I quickly realized that I still need a backhoe- I have some old horses that will eventually have to be laid down that the Yanmar loader couldn't really get done. I guess you could theoretically, but it would take some digging! So, I bought a mini ex (again- a cheap JD35g!). I explored the yanmar BH option- but it was half what the cheap min-ex was, and the mini ex is def a better option than any tractor mounted backhoe I've ever seen. What bugged me was not being able to move debris around- as mini ex's are snails compared to that old rubber tire backhoe! My answer was to buy a 4-1 bucket for the Yanmar and now I'm good to go! I''ll probably eventually sell the JD-35g.... probably for what I bought it for. :) Love the channel, man- I may have to start one myself. lol.
My dad had a Massey Ferguson 200 and a 220 industrial skiploaders that had PTO and three point hitch and he used them for rototilling, weed abatement, grading, and a few other things. He also had a side shifting backhoe that went on to that thing with two steel beams making up a subframe that went on to the tractor and hooked on to the backhoe, and the hydraulics were directly tied into the tractor hydraulics.
He could attach or detach it and less than a half an hour.
Those tractors were from the '50s or '60s.
In the seventies he upgraded to a 275 Massey Ferguson agricultural tractor but had the industrial loader added to it.
I bought a JD 2032R in March 2019, and got the backhoe with it. I have dug out about 30 stumps ( about 100 more to go) in the last couple of months. Yes it takes a little while depending on the size of the stump. But I can work at my speed without having to worrying about a daily cost. I also have 4 or 5 natural springs on our property and have to channel the run off so the property is usable. In my case, the backhoe will pay for itself in about 3 to 4 years. My on and off time for the backhoe is only about 3-5 minutes.
2019 Kubota L3901- Backhoe to box blade in 15 to 20 minutes with no help. Maybe the other brands make it hard.
Learned how to use mine digging 8 to 20 inch poplar stumps (10 stumps removed). Quite happy with the amount of time it took and the end result.
I am new to the tractor world. I have a TYM T265 backhoe with subframe. Love it. I have so many jobs lined up. Can’t wait to get a thumb for it and am finding it hard to get one here in Australia. We are going to build a fish pond with lots of fairly large rocks and this is going to save my back a million. I have hugelkulturs to dig and causeways to fix after the floods here in Queensland Australia. It’s heaps good mate. I reckon ya gotta build a bigger shed, then you’ll be right mate. Cheers
I bought a backhoe for my jd 4044r. I had been debating with myself for couple of years prior. The last year of that internal debate I had spent over $4k on backhoe work. So it was a no brainier for me. The JD backhoe is a breeze to hook up, even for one person as you can control the tractor from the outside and behind - connecting to the easy match. In a couple of years, my backhoe has already paid for itself more than once.
I have a backhoe on my TYM 450 that comes off in about 5 minutes and can be installed in about 10 minutes. I use it enough to justify having it but the guy that uses one once a year needs to hire a guy like me or rent one
@@johnburk7787 another option is the tow behind trencher/backhoe as it costs about the same as a 2 week long rentals
I always need to dig or pick something up, and can never seem to get enough rear ballast.
Seems a good fit for a backhoe, but honestly I think a quality mini excavator is probably a better choice. Only benefit I can see with a subframe backhoe is that I no longer need to worry about another engine's maintenance, as well as the other associated systems which would be redundant. Of course I think the backhoe might be the only way to get my rear ballast up to recommended numbers.
Cons to everything but buying tractor with built in BH is worth every$$ and more. I only have 1.5 acres and my BH has paid for itself long ago. it's one if those attachments that has very little maintenance and doesn't take up too much storage. It also adds weight ballast when doing loader work....
So many more pluses to your 4 cons:)
I owned a JD 4500 with backhoe for 20 yrs; never had a problem with it except for a battery. Never regretted buying it and was easy to take off and put on. The worst implement that I bought was post hole digger. Hardly ever used it. As I got old and started having back problems I sold every thing. But it was a nice piece of equipment.
I own a small GC series tractor from Massey Ferguson and in that product line, you need to know right up front if you want one or not, because it’s not something you’re just gonna pick up and attach to it later without almost rebuilding half the tractor. It’s for this reason that I just went ahead and got that whole package deal. It just didn’t make sense for me not to financially. That being said, If I already owned a tractor without one, I probably wouldn’t go to the trouble to put one on it. In my research it turned out to be so incredibly expensive to add the sub frame required, change the seat to a swivel seat, the rollbars on the tractors are different to allow for the operator to sit under it. I have found a ton of jobs for it and I’m glad to have it but I’d only get one if it came with the tractor or my living depended on it. I leave it on all the time because it’s an automatic 1000 pounds of ballast and with all that reaction, she goes anywhere. Great 👍 videos. Keep it up. Always informative and fun to watch!
Mike I bought a backhoe with my tractor purchase anpaid half price for backhoe and I love it ,it takes about 5 minutes to take off and I dont have to take anything off tractor to mount and dismount backhoe ,I pull 2 pins and set stabilizer arms down and let bucket down and drive right out from under it,no trouble at all,it is on an LS XR3135 and it is easy to hook up hydralic lines ,just plug them into my 2 outlets on back of tractor,check out the LS brand tractors ,they are easy to get up on and sit in seat and everything is right at your hand reach..
All depends on what you do. I have a small tractor and the backhoe has never come off, except to say I'd done it. It's great ballast for the loader, and if you dig up a lot of stumps it's worth it. The "pain in the butt" to mount/remove varies greatly with the model and mounting method. If you want easier mount/dismount, get a Yanmar or a Kubota.
Kioti is super-easy mount too
Thank you for talking about this attachment for a small Tractor. For me, I bought a used 190 Dynahoe (monster 19000 pounds) for me it was a Restoration project. I ran them in 1979 was a very strong machine. The Backhoe end is PART of mainframe (no disconnect) it's just my Toy. I call her Little Muskie after Big Muskie because BUCYRUS-ERIE Built and sold them.
It is way overkill. But like you so wisely pointed out. I still had a swimming pool size hole after working around a big maple stump that dug out
it still was a huge job to strap stump to front bucket and Dump in Dumpster I rented from Recycling company. You can not dig out Stumps with small tractors. My friend who owns land had it Logged, Rented big CAT excavator with thumb, to remove all the stumps into burn piles, he was making a tree Farm.
Looking to buy a Backhoe or a skid steer in the 50 Hp range or Skidsteer in the 8,000lb range. A back hoe would be nice to have for that occasional job when needed but really look forward to having the ballast or counterweight of a backhoe when lifting heavy fill around. I could also hookup a concrete block for weight I guess.
I have bought 4 backhoes. After the first ( JD#6) I went bigger, and got into doing culvert work after my full time job. Lots of wash outs created a lot of work for a couple seasons. I left the backhoe right on the tractors ( 4 and 5 series ) . Having it sit a job site ( a owners driveway) , was great advertising for more work. Bringing my forks along also got me a lot of extra side work moving steps, and whole sheds , and setting them up. I do believe that having Turf tires on the bigger tractors helped me get more work due to less lawn damage.
Hey Mike, I liked your video and some of the thoughts about back hoe ownership. I have my own take on backhoes. My wife and I recently bought 4 acres and built our own house. I bought a JD 2038R with backhoe prior to construction. I saved thousands by doing a lot of the minor excavation work with the backhoe. Dug the power line, dug some of the piles that needed rework, landscaping, etc. I would say it was a great purchase and now I have it for future use around the average. I would say if we did not build ourselves the backhoe would not have been a great purchase. It is great having it for those shovel jobs that break the back n
i bought a 3 point hitch backhoe attachment a few years ago from Alibaba for under $4,000. I love it! I've put a sprinkler system in my yard and in my garden. I dug an electric line to the dock on my pond. I've dug up stumps (not that hard). I've buried a couple of dogs. It's great for planting trees, shrubbery, etc. I can put the backhoe on faster than I can put my post hole digger on. All you have to do is get close enough to put the hydraulic pump on the PTO and then you use the backhoe hydraulics to manipulate the backhoe around to hook it up to the 3 point attachment points. I used to work with a plumber who had one on a 33 HP Kubota and we worked the devil out of that thing and never had any problem with it. My Kubota 4701 has no problem either.
my brother in law and I wanted a back hoe so we went to the local water system auction and bought a 6 yr old used John Deere full sized backhoe/ with a 4 n 1 front end loader that was well maintained (maintenance records came with it) and not a ton of hours on it. it has been a great machine for us clearing land, digging stumps, moving tons and tons of dirt and gravel. We paid a lot less than a compact tractor with a back hoe attachment.
Any of Kubota's TLB's (BX, B21, B26, L47, M62, etc) eliminate many of these arguments against owning a backhoe. I use my B21 and L47 backhoes all the time, and renting just sucks. I absolutely hate being in a rush on any job because I want to avoid an extra day's rental, not to mention you can spend 1/3 of a day arranging, loading and hauling a rental back and forth. A friendly neighbor willing to lend you his certainly satisfies as well.
Backhoes are great for landscapers and people using machines in the construction industry, been using mine since 1986 been great for me
Mike, I can attest that getting a machine with the hoe is sort of a double edged sword. I have the Branson 2400 compact tractor and it came attached via subframe. What I found out is that they are handy for small jobs...drainage ditchs, digging smaller holes for various reasons and removal of small stumps or trees...never tried a large one as I found out even the small ones take time (as you said). I have gotten a lot of use from it. Now, the bad part is, again as you say, it is a pain to get on due to the minute tolerance of fit...the getting off part was easy....I had to get my neighbor to help put it back on and we worked for a solid hour trying to manipulate it. The other problem I have found is it is impossible to put on a three point implement such as brushhog due to the subframe not allowing the lift arms to raise the full amount. I don't know what to do about it as it would take removal of the frame and that would be a major time consuming event. My neighbor is a good craftsman, and he suggested we try to build an attachment to extend past the frame....in any event it is something I did not anticipate. Saying this, I realize rental of the hoe is an option, but the process of driving to the rental place and paperwork and bringing it to the farm and then unloading etc, cleaning before return etc is time consuming. For the small jobs, the ease of simply backing it out of the barn and going to work is great...not so great if the hoe has been detached though...
As a retired diesel mechanic and small farm owner . You probably just the best advice I've ever heard about backhoes!!!
So any of you YUPPIES out there listening compact and subcompack tractors are not made for backhoe WORK!!!
True there about those stumps.
I had plans about digging out 50 stumps .
Plans changed after 1st three stumps. lol
PJ - As everything else in life it all resume to what is intended.
Just get rid of the unsightly tree stumps. Stump grinder. Roots will compost and improve the soil.
But if you need to construct or do anything that involve "real removal of the stumps. Than they have to come off one way or another. ;-)
Mike, love your channel. It depends on the individual and what they want to do. I would recommend the sub-frame PTO backhoe over the 3 point hitch style. I went through hell getting my small backhoe back onto my tractor. It was a snap to remove but I finally learned by doing it often to be quicker in the process. If you've never done it before, it takes some getting used to but after doing it numerous times, it's 2nd nature. I store all but one of my attachments in an implement building or in my tractor shed. I paid too much to have it rust out on me. Love your videos.
I have one on my Kioti and love it. The 3 point hitch does not have to be removed. I can remove it and reinstall it in less than 3 mins - 2 pins and 2 quick disconnect hydraulic lines. Like many other implements and toys - once you own one you will find all kinds of uses for it. Do u need one - probably not but do you need an ATV, side by side, fishing rod, safe full of guns, a $70K truck, or many other things many of us own.
I own 100 acres and my case 530 backhoe is the piece of equipment I use the most. Tree clearing, brush clearing, yard maintenance, leveling, waterway, water crossing, and roadway maintenance are what I use it for. It is by far the most versatile piece of equipment I have. I use it much more than just a standard tractor.
We didn't get a backhoe with our tractor. Really no need for one. Yes, it would be nice to have for the odd job, but those jobs are too far between to pay for a backhoe. Renting or subbing out the job would be our solution. Thanks for sharing Mike.
Hi Mike! I have a Kubota L3901 and the BH77 backhoe and I do use it a lot! However, I’m not saying you are wrong. Because I have a constant stream of projects requiring digging and trenching, it has been a very good investment for me. (Plus, it is just lots of fun to operate!). In two years, I racked up over 400 hours on the tractor and most of those have been while using the backhoe.
I do disagree that it is a major deal to take on and off. It is certainly inconvenient, though. It takes about 15 minutes to get the 3 point hardware off and the backhoe on. I keep my backhoe in my shop and store it on a dolly I built. My tractor lives in there too, so the hassle is minimal.
Bottom line is you need to be sure you’ll use one enough to justify the $7K to $9K you’ll spend on one. Thanks for another great informative video!
I've got a Kubota BX-25 sub compact backhoe. I'm able to store it in the garage and the machine has been bulletproof. I've dug over 200 feet of trenches at my house for underground wiring; replanted flower/bush beds; put in a firepit and dug stumps and holes for my neighbors and church. I view it as money in the bank. The biggest PITA about about a backhoe in my opinion are all those dang grease fittings. I hit them every year. The best thing about a backhoe is the safety aspect of its stabilizers. If you are on a tricky slope, you can extend a stabilizer on the downhill side and reduce the old pucker factor.
Thanks Mike, great video.
I save my projects up and rent a small excavator about once every two or three years for a week. It's not cheap but it gets the job done and one less thing for me to maintain.
Jim Helton. I agree make a work list and rent the excavator
Best way to save money, Plus the rent is 100% tax deductible at tax time...
I'm planning just like you, for what I need to do. Even running drain and sprinkler lines. Rent a trencher and a helper for a few days. I do the prep helpers can move the dirt.
@@joecain2084 Found several private individuals on News Station Free Ad's that rent their equipment. Better prices than a Rental Yard and they can deliver as well. I will try these Good Ol Boys.
I own a backhoe myself on my farm, a 50hp tractor. Your right its a royal pain to get on and off, but I wouldn't ever trade it. Their is simply no option in my area to rent one, let alone the sheer cost to float it (400$) one way. Then on top of that I use it probably 2-3 times year. I do try to line up my work all at once. Its recovered its cost just in the 4 years I have owned the tractor. Quick tip to help align the sub frame; I use a floor jack to help bring the bottom of the hoe in line with the under carriage brackets when its off ever so slightly. Makes a world of difference.
My dad also had a John Deere 500 series with the whole extension that he dug out a lot of stumps with. But that is a full size industrial backhoe.
I have operated several different brands of backhoes but I have never liked them.
I love running mini excavators. I wish my dad would have had one of those too. I ran his Ferguson most of the time.
The BH on the Kubota BX23S is small I believe it only goes 6 feet down. But it is a mighty attachment. I've dug some drainage with it and many stumps with it. Install and removal takes a couple minutes. They did it right on that one.
Mike, I like your videos, you do a great job! I just picked up my BH77 backhoe for my L2501. I love this thing! It is so cool to play with.
With that being said..I think you are right, it's big to store and a lot of money.....BUT, I had to have one for the fun of having one. Lets just call it "Therapy"...Hahahah...
Most people would probably be better off to rent one when needed, but I wanted one and now I have it. I built a dolly for it last night and can hardly wait to do something with it. I am going to try a ripper tooth to try and get some stumps out but we will see.
Keep up the good work.
My TC29Da New Holland tractor came with the NH backhoe and front end loader. The three point hitch arms stay in a lowered position when the backhoe attachment is on. It takes me 15 to 20 minutes to put it on with just 2 pins and 2 hoses. A little quicker if I have a spotter to help align the frame underneath. I keep the attachment in the 'corner' of the barn. Most of the time it's on the tractor because I like the 'counterweight' when I have something heavy in the front loader. I store my 25' tow chain in the back bucket so it's with me most of the time. I also found the extra seat on the backhoe useful for a passenger to ride into the field with me to help work on the pasture fence. Extra fence posts and tools go in the front loader. In the winter, I use the outriggers on the backhoe to lift the back wheels so I can put the tire chains on. I even put tire chains on the front for that extra grip when in 4x4. I sent a few pictures of mine to 'Tractordata.com' to use under TC29Da since they didn't have any of this model.
I have purchased a Bh 75 for my tc34da, waiting on arrival, subframe mount with spacer for my Laurin cab
I didn't need one when I bought a used unit from an owner with the same tractor as mine. But, since then I've used it about 40 hrs., once in an emergency to dig an 80' trench through very rough ground, and several days doing landscaping. If I hadn't been able to buy a low hr. used one at $4500, I would have been at the mercy of contractors. New, my unit would have been around $6000. It is a pain to install and remove if you don't have it on very level solid ground.
I love your channel and the information that you put out. I have been educated quite a bit thanks to you.
On this topic I must disagree. Now I don't have a large or "full size" backhoe on my tractor, but I do have one and it's one of my "go to" tools for my use. It is on a sub-compact tractor so you can figure out just how big or small it is. Taking it off or installing it is pretty easy and takes me a total of perhaps 30 minutes to go from tractor to brush hog and vice-versa by myself. Most of that time is taken up by brush hog installation since I don't (yet) have any kind of quick hitch system. Actual time to either remove or install just the backhoe takes roughly about 5 minutes.
As I said before, it's on a sub-compact tractor so I wouldn't really be able to dig a hole to bury a large animal, but I can take down smaller trees, take out stumps, dig trenches and do quite a few other things with it. Again, it fits my needs. I don't have an established farm, rather I have 35 acres of "raw land" that I have been clearing and developing. It all depends on the needs of the consumer.
Burning stumps is my go to method. The previous owner of my property used to cut enough cedar every year to pay the property taxes and would cut out dead cherry, oak, walnut, etc for fire wood for both him and his nephew. That means hundreds of stumps from trees that take for ever to rot. Put a couple 3/4 - 1" holes drilled into them to create a chimney, soak them with diesel for a few days, drop a match down the holes, and let it burn. It's a lot less work and leaves a lot less mess than digging out or grinding.
Every farmers dream “smaller house and bigger barn” great points in this video!
I have a JD1026r TLB. Taking the backhoe off and putting it back on the tractor is fairly easy by myself with partial disability. I store the backhoe on the tractor. When doing loader work or snow removal, the backhoe is a great rear weight.
You had spoke about the uses and shortfalls of a tractor mounted backhoe - I have a neighbour that purchased a compact tractor with a mower deck, loader, and backhoe 3 or 4years ago. Although I don’t have a clue what his methods or rationality is, I can look out my window to into his backyard ( we live in a small town ) and see the backhoe sitting under the pear tree, and the loader tied up into the tree most of the time, and he cuts his lawn with a cub cadet. I may see the Massey out cutting the grass maybe once a year, and see it with the backhoe and loader on it maybe once a year as well. I watched him level an area for a swimming pool in his back yard, and dig a hole in his backyard and then fill it in. Other than that I haven’t seen him use it. There is more paint washed off the attachments than is washed off. Point is, the loader and backhoe spend most of the time under the tree.
The Branson set up is super easy to swap out. Easy hydraulics easy pin removal. Easy to attach. You would be VERY surprised how often they are used for simple tasks from putting in TPosts, extra weight for moving hay rounds, cherry picking an engine, not to mention the obvious of digging. Heck the occasional side job. But if you dont need one you dont need one.
I am 70 yrs old and own a BX 23S and it takes me a maximum of 10 minutes, start to finish, to get it on or off. No heavy lifting, pushing, shoving etc. And during the summer months I can leave my belly mount on as well. Same with the bucket but that takes only 5 minutes max as well. And I live in a heavy clay area so it beats the hell out of shoveling.
I considered All your views on backhoes in the past! How much would I use it? Where will I store it when not in use? How many projects will I need it for? Etc! For me it wasn’t worth spending $6000-10,000 for a backhoe but I did run across a used backhoe for $2600 that needed a little work.
Couple leaks and a worn pivot pin….had about $300 into repairs and so far after 4 years I’ve used it 5 times on various jobs…
Probably has almost paid for itself vs renting equipment for those jobs! I did find a place inside one of my building that’s out of the way and so far im fairly happy with my purchase!
Great video and I agree with your opinions!
All valid points. But it really depends on the person, the property, the available time, and access to a rental or BH operator. I have a 45 hp. Kioti and the BH lives on my tractor most of the year...inside my barn. It is an important counterweight for my FEL, VERY easy to remove and re-install (5-10 minutes tops), and offers incredible flexibility for my 80 acre property. I would not want to be without it. Your points, however, are important considerations for anyone thinking about such a purchase.