Backhoe JD 7 Backhoe mounting on a 770 - from a 755

[JD755]

I have never installed a #7 backhoe, but I do have the manual for it. The interesting things here are that installation on a 55 series tractor is very simple, basically bolting on brackets to the loader bar and under the draw bar. Certainly less than two hours even taking your time. Installation on a 50 series tractor is quite a bit more complex, and involves drilling holes. Installation on a 70 series might be 8 hours. The manual doesn't even address it. It says instructions are included with the backhoe and to follow those. In all cases, once the parts are installed on the tractor the back hoe can be easily installed and removed. The 70 series uses latches, while the 50 and 55 use pins. I know this does not answer your question, but might provide some insight to their time estimate.

 

[inmaestro]

I agree that you will find a backhoe a great tool. I bought a 447 for my 3120 and had to have the mounting plates installed. Cost about $1200 including power beyond kit ($200), though it is probably somewhat different than the 770. You might go online and get the instructions for mounting the subframe. It may involve removing wheels, axle bolts and the like. I looked at the instructions for mine, and even though I probably could have done it, I let the pros handle it for time and safety. The instructions were easy to follow, and I'm sure with time and patience a determined DIYer can handle it. Ask your dealer what's involved. For what it is worth, you won't be sorry you invested in a BH. Have fun.

 

[wcpeabody]

You might go online and get the instructions for mounting the subframe.

Any idea where I could find that? I could not find it yet.

Thanks,
Bill

 

[jd670]

Bill, according to the manual I have on the #7 backhoe, the subframe is part of the backhoe. You back your tractor up to it and use the stabilizers and the boom of the backhoe to lift it to the tractor. The #7 operators manual I have was found on ebay for $10. I bought it thinking I was going to get a backhoe for my 670.

 

[irwin]

You can find the individual parts on John Deere - Parts Catalog . Type backhoe then search for #7 backhoe. Look through and find mainframe and lowerframe this will give you the part numbers for your 770 tractor. (not the best images..but it should give you an idea) In the image below #6 is the subframe.
Installing the subframe is just wrench work, no special skills required. You may need to remove the rear wheels, but nothing too involved.

Also this, not exactly what you need, but here's the instruction manual for a woods backhoe subframe. It shouldn't be more involved?
showcontent

 

[JD755]

The John Deere parts catalog is an excellent on-line source for researching the parts required and can answer a lot of questions. But let me ask for a clarification. The subframe is part of the backhoe, but was the original question regarding the dealer installing the mounting kit? These are parts separate from the subframe and stay with the tractor when the backhoe is removed. The parts catalog does show several extra parts required for the 70 series tractors, including frame reinforcement pieces.

 

[irwin]

The John Deere parts catalog is an excellent on-line source for researching the parts required and can answer a lot of questions. But let me ask for a clarification. The subframe is part of the backhoe, but was the original question regarding the dealer installing the mounting kit? These are parts separate from the subframe and stay with the tractor when the backhoe is removed. The parts catalog does show several extra parts required for the 70 series tractors, including frame reinforcement pieces.

No I haven't installed the mounting kit...but I really can't believe it's so hard to do. Eight hours... "maybe", but it's just wrench and jack work. Even if it does take 8 hours it's still light weight work. I say do it yourself.

 

[JD755]

Agreed. Nothing there you can't do yourself.

 

[RobS]

I swapped out the mounting kit on my #7 to fit my 790. Was a breeze, I cannot imagine paying a dealer 8-10 hours for that. Great price on that hoe, I'd jump on it and decide what do to later...

 

[jd670]

One thing Bill, if you decide to go the backhoe route, by the parts you need yourself through JD parts. Don't buy the "kit" from the dealer. You'll save money. I found this out when I bought the front screen brushguard for my 3320. I bought the kit from the dealer and paid $82 more than if I would have bought it through JD parts. I imagine the kit is still available. The 3005 is the same tractor as the 770. He's probally quoting you the price for a 3005 install.