Backhoe Backhoe 42hp tractor capabilities?

[saltman]

I am looking for a backhoe for a JD 990 42HP tractor. Not looking to spend too much are there good alternatives to the JD brand? and what will a 42hp backhoe be able to do? most of my digging is hard decomposed granite and rocky soil.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

If you have to purchase new to get a hoe for your JD, you will be better off getting a full sized TLB, like a 580 Case or a 310 JD or a Cat. You can find these for not much more than a new hoe will cost you for your 990. They are waaaaay more than twice the machine that you have. We have a 580E Case extendahoe and we have less land than you do. I believe that there are a few on Craig's list now, and if not, I'm sure that they will get re-listed.

Good luck

 

[Builder]

I am looking for a backhoe for a JD 990 42HP tractor. Not looking to spend too much are there good alternatives to the JD brand? and what will a 42hp backhoe be able to do? most of my digging is hard decomposed granite and rocky soil.

....wear out quickly!!!!! Small backhoes with light duty steel will not last long digging up rocky soil. Been there & done that. Past small machines include Kubota 245DT, L-35 & L-39. They all worked in easy digging, but granite veins, boulders, etc.....

Larger backhoes will fare better. Like Mtn View Ranch said, full size machines are selling for about 2/3 what they normally sell due to the horrible recession we're in. Once you buy it, you'll never figure out how you did without one. When you're done with it, you'll probably be able to sell it for more than you paid for it because the economy will be in better shape (we hope).

Look for a TEREX, Ford, International, etc. or other lesser name or discontinued backhoe. Since you probably aren't making a living with it, you don't need to overpay for a "brand name" like CAT, Deere NH or Case. Terex backhoes sell for cheap and will do a great job for you.