Best B Series Tractor Backhoe?

PapaPerk · Apr 21, 2015

I'm debating buying a Kubota B series with backhoe. I'm considering the following and will consider others too.

B2620, B2301, B2601, B3300 SU, B2650, B3350 SU.

All equipped with front loader with QA,Backhoe with 12" bucket and manual thumb. Having run the numbers on Kubota site here's some numbers.

Max Price = $32,360, Min Price = $25,585, Variance = $6,775.00

I'm actually amazed how expensive they all are! Lol! Especially for small tractors. I know my prices are MSRP.

In my opinion the B2601 maybe the sweet spot... Especially with the new position control 3 point. I really like the looks of the B3300 and B3350 with the big tire option! But I don't want the emission control hassle. About a $1,300 price increase between the B3300 and B2601. But finding a B3300 might be harder now.

What do ya'll think?

s219 · Apr 21, 2015

The B2650/B3350 and older B3200/B3300 use the same backhoe, which is larger than what comes on the smaller B's. I'd say let the backhoe specs guide you in deciding which range of B models is better for your use.

I wouldn't go with a B3350 right now due to the issues they are having with the DPF, plus it's a big chunk of money over the otherwise identical B2650. The B2650 is a nice size and price, and makes good use of 26HP. If you really need to have 33HP, I think the L3200/L3301 are better values for the money (with the 3301 you're again dealing with DPF, though they have not had the same problems reported as the B3350).

628pm · Apr 21, 2015

I have a b2620 with FEL, 60 inch MMM, and Backhoe, that I might be selling, 418 hours in great shape, always kept in the garage.

PapaPerk · Apr 21, 2015

628pm said:
I have a b2620 with FEL, 60 inch MMM, and Backhoe, that I might be selling, 418 hours in great shape, always kept in the garage.

Where are you located? I'm in KY.

Tompet · Apr 21, 2015

s219 said:
The B2650/B3350 and older B3200/B3300 use the same backhoe, which is larger than what comes on the smaller B's. I'd say let the backhoe specs guide you in deciding which range of B models is better for your use.

I wouldn't go with a B3350 right now due to the issues they are having with the DPF, plus it's a big chunk of money over the otherwise identical B2650. The B2650 is a nice size and price, and makes good use of 26HP. If you really need to have 33HP, I think the L3200/L3301 are better values for the money (with the 3301 you're again dealing with DPF, though they have not had the same problems reported as the B3350).

I agree with s219 on the points of his reply.
To add a couple other thoughts, I had a BH65 and now a BH77 and besides more power the 77 is nice with dual swing cylinders and full 180 degree bucket rotation and boom swing. So, IMO the new B2650 would be my choice for reasons S219 listed. Also, unlike another brand 12" BH bucket I had, the 12" on the BH65 stuck with dirt or clay pretty regularly, while the 16" bucket I have on the BH77 rarely sticks. I am very happy with the 16" bucket. Plus with a 16" wide trench it is much easier to walk or work in if need be.

Some of the improvements on the new models are nice. Brakes on the left, position control (but I have no problem with the 1/4" valve) SS quick attach (though it will fit prior models). My second choice would be a B3300 from your list if you can still find one (plus it should be noticeably less money than the new models. The manual thumb is well worth the cost.
Btw, did you look at any other brands? Personally, I like the swivel seat for a BH that Kubota uses on the B's with BH.

Good luck on your decision....eventually post some pictures!

CanuckPT · Apr 21, 2015

I have a B3300SU with a BH77 backhoe & I love it! In addition to my 16" bucket I have a Bro-Tek ripper tooth which is fantastic for digging up stumps. Couldn't be happier!

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