Backhoe Decision

Imaybail · Dec 31, 2016

Have been shopping for a backhoe for my 4300 for a couple of months. Have looked at used and new and googled everything I could to try to make an educated decision.

The used ones I found have been too far away to make it practical to buy. New ones are very expensive.
My use would be for putting in culverts, road ditches, trenching for water and power lines, and any holes that need to be dug.
Maybe used occasionally to get out stumps or large rocks. All in all, probably use the hoe 10 to twelve times a year once the initial remedial work was completed on culverts and ditching.

Have considered the pros and cons of going with a subframe mounted hoe versus a three point hoe and have read all the cautions associated with the three point type. I would prefer the subframe type, but price is an important consideration on an attachment that would cost more than half of the value of my tractor.

I already have a power beyond kit installed, so would not need a pto pump. I think I will have about 8.5 gpm available for the backhoe.

Just at a point of indecision right now. Need the hoe, but have information overload. Would really like to hear from some of the members that have already made this decision for a backhoe on this size tractor, and for the usage profile that is similar to mine. Oh, and I may not take your recommendation, but it will be appreciated.

So, my candidates are:
John Deere 485, with subframe kit. $10300.00
John Deere 375, with subframe kit. $8300.00
Wallenstein Gx720 with subframe. $9000.00
Everything Attachment/Ansung 3 point hitch type. $6000.00
Woodmax 7600 3 point hitch type. With hydraulic thumb. $5055.00
(this one only comes with the pto pump system)
Titan 7 foot three point hitch type, with hydraulic thumb $3699.00

Here's a sheet showing more info:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...K0b3iBYS1bCGCM

LD1 · Dec 31, 2016

Cant really help but I'll be watching what others say. I have been looking for a good used ~9' or 10' hoe as well. Dont really care what the color or brand is, as I can make a subframe for anything. But like you, all the ones I see that "may" be a good deal, are just too far away. And all the ones closer to home, are either not in very good condition, or too rich for my blood.

Looking4new · Dec 31, 2016

I too will be watching for the same reasons as LD1.

Texasmark · Dec 31, 2016

Imaybail said:
Have been shopping for a backhoe for my 4300 for a couple of months. Have looked at used and new and googled everything I could to try to make an educated decision.

The used ones I found have been too far away to make it practical to buy. New ones are very expensive.
My use would be for putting in culverts, road ditches, trenching for water and power lines, and any holes that need to be dug.
Maybe used occasionally to get out stumps or large rocks. All in all, probably use the hoe 10 to twelve times a year once the initial remedial work was completed on culverts and ditching.

Have considered the pros and cons of going with a subframe mounted hoe versus a three point hoe and have read all the cautions associated with the three point type. I would prefer the subframe type, but price is an important consideration on an attachment that would cost more than half of the value of my tractor.

I already have a power beyond kit installed, so would not need a pto pump. I think I will have about 8.5 gpm available for the backhoe.

Just at a point of indecision right now. Need the hoe, but have information overload. Would really like to hear from some of the members that have already made this decision for a backhoe on this size tractor, and for the usage profile that is similar to mine. Oh, and I may not take your recommendation, but it will be appreciated.

So, my candidates are:
John Deere 485, with subframe kit. $10300.00
John Deere 375, with subframe kit. $8300.00
Wallenstein Gx720 with subframe. $9000.00
Everything Attachment/Ansung 3 point hitch type. $6000.00
Woodmax 7600 3 point hitch type. With hydraulic thumb. $5055.00
(this one only comes with the pto pump system)
Titan 7 foot three point hitch type, with hydraulic thumb $3699.00

Here's a sheet showing more info:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...K0b3iBYS1bCGCM

Is renting an option? Is usage so frequent that hiring it done is prohibitive?

Woody65 · Dec 31, 2016

I went through the same dilemma a couple of years ago. I also, have a JD 4300 and needed a backhoe. In the end I got a mini ex and never looked back. It was the right decision for me because I use an array of implements on the 3pt and needed that function available on the 4300. I was not comfortable with a 3pt backhoe and a frame mount would have severely limited the use of the 4300. I know it will cost more but seriously think of a mini ex.

number9L · Dec 31, 2016

I don't understand the high prices for backhoe attachments for tractors. For that kind of money, a person can buy a used REAL backhoe and have a much more capable machine, as well as being a second machine.

I've had a (real) backhoe and there's no way I'd buy a backhoe attachment for my tractor. It'd be like trying to paint a house with a tooth brush. A real backhoe would be MUCH more efficient in work performed, and would sell a lot quicker than an attachment when it came time.

arkydog · Dec 31, 2016

if you git an backhoe, find out whether or not you have to take off the three point arms. that could make or break the deal for u. i have had both 3pt and subframe and i got the factory backhoe and subframe. 5 min on a d off. takes a little longer to install 3pt arms. i would only haove the factory hoe. or i would got a mini hoe.

KYErik · Dec 31, 2016

Not sure how large your storage building is, but you could likely save some $ over the subframe models by buying a reliable older full sized gas or diesel backhoe. You should be able to find one for around $5-6K. For that price, it will likely have a few leaks, but it would hold its value well and be able to do much bigger jobs.

10 years ago, I picked up a mid 60's Case 530CK diesel backhoe from a dealer for $3500. I had to replace a few hoses and seals, and it smokes some, but it runs good and serves me very well.

jajiu · Dec 31, 2016

I went round and round like you last year. After seriously considering the WoodMax, I went with the Kubota with the sub-frame. Like you I don't have an everyday use for it, but it really has come in handy moving boulders with the hyd. thumb. It does take a little time to take off the 3-pt. hitch and put it back on, but I have it down to about 20 min. I know a lot of the pro tractor owners really shy away from the 3-pt. hitch backhoe, and after using my unit with the sub-frame, I can see why. A lot of stress is put on the tractor using a backhoe. I also looked at a real backhoe unit, but around here the cost was way to high and for the amount of use the attachment option was the way to go.

Gary Fowler · Dec 31, 2016

Before I would spend that kind of money for an attachment, I would look for a dedicated backhoe, either an excavator (preferred) or a full size older hoe like JD 310 or equivalent. I have seen some older construction grade machines, some with cabs, go for under $10K. I have been pretty satisfied with my B26 but many times wish I had more power but the size is why I bought it in the first place. I sure wish it were an excavator when I am cleaning out my drainage ditches and ponds, the 180 degree swing is just not enough to dump the spoils far enough from the machine and ditch.