Backhoe Decision

[Imaybail]

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]

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]

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

 

[Texasmark]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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.

 

[RoyJackson]

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 have the factory hoe. or i would got a mini hoe.

I have a 448 backhoe that came with my 4520. Installing this Deere branded backhoe does require removal of the 3PH linkage. It's mounted using two heavy (.50" thick) plates that are bolted into the frame and ROPS.
The 47, 48, 447 and 448 backhoes will fit the 4x00, 4x10, 3x20 and 4x20 series tractors. They are quite strong and definitely worth the money if you have enough work to justify the costs.

That said, my backhoe has been setting for a good 18 months. I bought the tractor for the cab...the backhoe was just part of the deal.

BTW. remember that the 4300 series tractors has aluminum casting for the transmission (I had a 4400 before the 4520), so make sure you get a frame that can handle the extra loads. The plates used for my 4520 are quite similar to those used on the 4300, so the design should be robust enough for your tractor.

 

[Gary Fowler]

If your tractor has aluminum rear end / transmission, I don't think I would be putting on any kind of back hoe. I think you would be asking for it to break your tractor.

 

[Sprinklerman]

if you are close to Md ,I have a 310b deere I havent used in 5 years .

 

[FredH]

http://www.rhinehartequipment.com/d...&s=Price&d=D&t=preowned&fr=xPreOwnedInventory

Another option ??

Fred H.

 

[LD1]

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.

I have a "real" backhoe. Sometimes a smaller one would me slot better IMO.

I fix slot of field tile blowouts and cleaning up outlets. Smaller hoes are just fine for that, lighter machine is easier on the field, and easier/cheaper to maintain

 

[Imaybail]

If your tractor has aluminum rear end / transmission, I don't think I would be putting on any kind of back hoe. I think you would be asking for it to break your tractor.

Actually, the transmission/transaxle housing is iron. Only the axle housings are cast aluminum. Note the magnet in the picture .

That is right at the point where the axle housings bolt to the transaxle.
There are two mounting systems for these tractors: rockshaft assist plates, that bolt on to the transaxle around the axle housings, and the subframe mounting system.

 

[Imaybail]

if you are close to Md ,I have a 310b deere I havent used in 5 years .

I'm in Georgia. Found a nice John Deere backhoe attachment up there too, but too far for me.
How much does that tlb weigh? I'm limited to about 11,000 lbs. with my trailer. Pm me a price.

 

[Imaybail]

http://www.rhinehartequipment.com/d...&s=Price&d=D&t=preowned&fr=xPreOwnedInventory

Another option ??

Fred H.

Too much money. I have found some tlbs locally for around $7500.00
Might be the best way to go.

 

[Bigfoot62]

If you're really going to use the backhoe regularly, you'll be WAY better off with a "real" TLB, or even a Mini-Ex. Hydraulics are going to be a BUNCH faster.

 

[RoyJackson]

...remember that the 4300 series tractors has aluminum casting for the transmission (I had a 4400 before the 4520), so make sure you get a frame that can handle the extra loads. The plates used for my 4520 are quite similar to those used on the 4300, so the design should be robust enough for your tractor.

If your tractor has aluminum rear end / transmission, I don't think I would be putting on any kind of back hoe. I think you would be asking for it to break your tractor.

Well, there were (and are) a lot of 4x00 and 4x10 series Deeres out there with backhoes.
A couple important things to remember are:
a) Stabilizers are for stabilizing, not lifting. In the 447 and 448 manuals, Deere recommends leaving the rear tires on the ground with the stabilizers down
b) Understand the limitations of the backhoe. It's not a 20 ton purpose built machine.
c) (My own experience using a purpose built backhoe) If the ground is frozen, don't use the backhoe to break through. All you'll do is bounce around and abuse the machine (we used a jackhammer way back in 1968)

Personally, I would never lend out my tractor, with or without the backhoe attached. If a neighbor needs some digging, I'll do it for them.