Congrats. I like that the FEL control lever is next to the operator station and not mounted to the side of the dash. The backhoe boom and dipper look more compact (shorter) than the one on my GC1720, but that could be just the photo. Do you know the full length/dig depth?
Thank you! Are you referring to the Massey CB65 BH? I think that is a rather comparable BH to the Yanmar B65 in terms of strength, capacity, etc. Dig depth on the Yanmar is 6.5 feet. I think the size of the 424 (especially the rear tires) makes the backhoe look "extra compact". I feel like the machine could accommodate a larger BH, but the stock unit has enough force to push and pull this tractor all over the place if you really lay into it, so I'm not sure it's a good idea.
An interesting fact: Yanmar contracted with Woods Equipment to build BH's for the 424 (and 324, and maybe 221 SCUT?) so the Yanmar unit is basically exactly the same as a
Woods BH65, but with a different sticker (just look at the unique stabilizer pads). My model was one of the first to have this BH - earlier 424 hoes are a different design and according to my dealer, made by Yanmar. Third-party maker or not, the 4-point mounting for this Woods/Yanmar combo is very well thought out, and well integrated into the design. It reminds me of Kubota's 4-point system. I wanted a backhoe that looked, felt, and operated like part of the tractor, as opposed to something that hung way out back, looked like a bolt-on afterthought, and added unnecessary length. Also didn't want extra subframe rails eating up ground clearance and garage space when detached. 424 fit the bill on all counts.
Yes, the FEL control was another selling point for me too. I looked at several more expensive models from other brands that did not have that, and some of the ones that did just sorta "bolted it on" with a funky bracket, with exposed hoses and all. I gotta say Yanmar put some thought into this thing. Also feel like the extra-big tires help spread the weight when I'm driving on my lawn.
