Anyone install their own loader on a BX...

[Tags]

I am looking to purchase a loader for my BX2230 and was just wondering if its worth doing the install myself just so I know how it all hooks into the machine and so I know that it was done correctly.The dealer wants $450 to do the install.

 

[gwdixon]

That seems a little high for the install. At shop rates that sounds like a 5 - 6 hour job.

However, there is the issue of connecting hydraulic lines that can be a real pain. Once you get started on your own you may regret it.

If you plan to buy the FEL from the dealer there is wiggle room in the price. My LA211 had been sitting out back at the dealer for two years and he desperately wanted to get rid of it. He did the install for free along with discounting the FEL.

(My BX2200 is in the background in the photo.)

 

[kevinj]

I am looking to purchase a loader for my BX2230 and was just wondering if its worth doing the install myself just so I know how it all hooks into the machine and so I know that it was done correctly.The dealer wants $450 to do the install.

It will probably take you all and some help if you do not an equipped shop so the price seem in line to me.

 

[timswi]

It will probably take you all and some help if you do not an equipped shop so the price seem in line to me.

Just getting the parts out of the truck and assembling that will be at least a 2 person job...That isn't even inculding the hydro lines etc...I'd let them do it.

 

[RobertN]

My old B8200 did not have a loader when I got it; I went with a local repair/used tractor shop, partly for price, and because his shop does great work.

A couple years after I got it, I had to partially remove most of the sub-frame and stuff(it was a quick attach model). It really was not that big of a deal, although some pieces were heavy. And, at least the Bushhog manual, was pretty thorough.

 

[kevinj]

Just getting the parts out of the truck and assembling that will be at least a 2 person job...That isn't even inculding the hydro lines etc...I'd let them do it.

Be sure to recheck all bolt frequently if the dealer does it.

A couple of mine never made it to the 10 hour check and were missing bolts.

Since then I put my own on and also never seize the bolts so I can get apart later on for service.

If the dealer installs one for me I remove each bolt, never seize, reinstall & torque. Bolts stay tight just fine then.

 

[bucktaker]

I installed my la854 Loader on my L5740 in Sept
I had planned on picking up the loader but my dealer delivered it to my shop for free. Its (mine) was big when attached to the skid. We skidded it off the trailer and dragged it with my quad into the shop.

Install itself wasnt too bad I ended up buying a m16 tap to clean the holes on my tractor so the bolts would go in. You will need a hoist or method of holding the loader up so u can drop the stands once you are ready to connect. I used a engine hoist. one little piece of advice is to make sure the bucket is on while connecting to the tractor.

All in all it was not too difficult and I saved about the same amount you were quoted.

 

[Tags]

Thanks for the replies, I am still mad at myself for not buying the loader with the machine. I am amazed the LA211 loader is still even available. Anyway,as far as moving it around thats not really a problem and neither is supporting it while assembling, the part i'm more curious about is the hydraulic hookup and if the directions are good enough for a fairly mechanical person to comprehend.

 

[kevinj]

Thanks for the replies, I am still mad at myself for not buying the loader with the machine. I am amazed the LA211 loader is still even available. Anyway,as far as moving it around thats not really a problem and neither is supporting it while assembling, the part i'm more curious about is the hydraulic hookup and if the directions are good enough for a fairly mechanical person to comprehend.

I have done a couple and the instructions are fine. I think you need to remove the rear wheel for access.

 

[bp fick]

Yes. I have to say, that if the hydraulic block is already in place, installing your own loader is a piece of cake.

I can walk you through the possible foibles or pitfalls to avoid, but there are aren't many. Knowing what I know now, I could mount one in less than an hour. Truly.

Not having the block in place? Considerably different job.