Backhoe Anyone?? 3ph backhoe for LS2023

[Bigfoot56]

I posted here 3 weeks ago, zero response. Was considering purchasing a Woodmaxx 3ph backhoe. I understand the advantages of a sub frame unit but money is an issue so considering a 3ph backhoe unit. Looking for feedback regarding anyone owning/operating any 3ph backhoe. Years back I owned a mini-excavator but I have zero experience with tractor mounted backhoes.

 

[blucoondawg]

I have a 9ft Woods hoe with a subframe, backhoes put a good amount of stress on a tractor, I wouldn't want to use one off the 3 point.

 

[GManBart]

There are quite a few threads on 3ph backhoes. Generally speaking, most folks agree they are a very bad idea. Some folks have had success with them, and others have broken their tractor in half. For the price of buying a 3ph backhoe, you might be able to rent a mini-excavator as many times as you need one to get all the tasks done....and it will be way faster.

 

[Bigfoot56]

I have a 9ft Woods hoe with a subframe, backhoes put a good amount of stress on a tractor, I wouldn't want to use one off the 3 point.

Thanks for your response, I appreciate your time. I've also wondered how hard it would be to add my own subframe? Gonna keep collecting opinions before making any decisions. Probably end up spending the extra money on a full subframe unit. Always seems to be a fine line between frugal & foolish for me.

 

[blucoondawg]

I installed the woods subframe myself, I don't know what tractor you have but they offer subframes for a good number of tractors. It wasn't too bad a job for me it was pretty straight forward with decent instructions

 

[Bigfoot56]

There are quite a few threads on 3ph backhoes. Generally speaking, most folks agree they are a very bad idea. Some folks have had success with them, and others have broken their tractor in half. For the price of buying a 3ph backhoe, you might be able to rent a mini-excavator as many times as you need one to get all the tasks done....and it will be way faster.

I'll scoot around & see if I can locate any of those other threads. I've already ruled out the rental route. I work 50+ hrs a week so all the work to be done will be done in bits & pieces which would require just too many rentals. Also looking to pick up some more property adjacent to mine so even more work anticipated down the line. I'm in Florida so I'm digging in sand, no stones or hardpan in my area which is the only reason I would consider a 3ph backhoe other than the monetary issue. The majority of trees I need to take out are under 15"cal. Thanks for taking the time to respond, I'm soaking up as much info as possible.

 

[blucoondawg]

If you plan on digging out stumps I would not go the 3pt route. Stump pulling is probably the hardest job for these little hoes

 

[AndyMA]

I'm well aware of the issues with 3PT backhoes. I've had several with subframes. I currently have a 3PT Woods on a Cat 2 hitch on a New Holland TN 75D. My dealer who doesn't recommend 3PT hoes was ok on this tractor. I've used it hard for 10 years piling many tough stumps and have torn 2 buckets. The Woods 3 PT is not flexible at all. It's a very solid rigid frame

Andy

 

[blucoondawg]

I'd be a little more confident on a larger tractor and cat 2 hitch. Which hoe do you have the 90x or something bigger

 

[Bigfoot56]

If you plan on digging out stumps I would not go the 3pt route. Stump pulling is probably the hardest job for these little hoes

Roger that