Backhoe Backhoe bucket size

Michael_S · Nov 5, 2003

I have the chance to purchase a slightly used Bush Hog 765 backhoe for use on my Kubota L3010. It does not include a bucket.
What size would you guys recommend?
Should I buy more than one size?

Thanks

grandad · Nov 5, 2003

Have been shopping myself for a BH. They tell me buyers typically get one mid-sized, all-purpose bucket, say 14-18 inches for a 9 ft. hoe and maybe a bit smaller for the 6.5 or 7.5 ft. hoes. Obviously, the more powerful the hoe, the better it can handle a larger bucket. A large bucket, say 24" or more, can get expensive.

Also, your local digging conditions are a factor. Texas has some tough, rocky soil in many places, where a smaller bucket would have some advantages.

Henro · Nov 6, 2003

Hi,

If you are getting only one bucket I would get a 16 inch or so.

I have 10 and 16 inch buckets, and the ten is too narrow for normal use in many cases. I do find it good for pipe trenches and also stump digging, where it concentrates the forces a little more.

The 10 inch does not clear itself easily in sticky clay, but the way. In sticky soils a wider bucket is better.

One bucket...16 or 18 is probably the way I would go... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Dave___in___CT · Nov 6, 2003

Hi...

Agree... 12" - 18"... check prices before you decide on 1 or more... also... how the teeth are attached/replaced & cost...

Dave...

david43a · Nov 8, 2003

I have a small back hoe a bx22 modle 600 it has a 10" bucket I have hard dry rockie soil . [ unless it rains for a while ] I wish I could ger a smaller bucket maby 8" - 6" for digging out tree roots and for my hard soil. I may have to get a larger bucket and have a welder cut out a section and and weld it back together. Last time I checked Kubota only supplied a 10" and a 12" bucket any suggestions for sources for a smaller bucket. Thanks David.

CTyler · Nov 9, 2003

I went with two buckets for my Woods 9000, 12 and 24". The 12" was for trenching water, sewer, communications etc.. Its' a little tight but workable.

The 24" is for digging anything else like septic tanks, drain field, culvert, etc...

If I could only pick one bucket it would be the 18 or 24".

bebster · Nov 9, 2003

I agree it should be a 16" - 18" size bucket. Three main reasons: <ul type="square"> [*](1) It will clear itself more easily than a smaller 12" bucket. [*](2) It's not so big meaning most backhoes can power it [*](3) If you are trenching, it's wide enough that you can get down in the trench and move pipes around, etc. [/list]