Backhoe BX23 Backhoe

[hasbro]

I'm looking at purchasing a BX23 and would like to get some input on how well the BH works. I will be doing a lot of trenching and putting in a fairly good size pond as part of a major re-landscaping effort. It doesn't bother me if it takes a bit longer than it would on a larger tractor, I just want to be sure it can do the work. Also, is the loader capable of moving decent size rocks that will part of the landscape.

If it's not, what model would you recommend? I'm pretty sure that I've decided on a Kubota, since the dealers in my area either sell Kubota or JD. And from what I can see the Kubota is a much better built tractor. I live in Washington state and the ground I'm working in is good for digging. (I've done it all by shovel in the past and am getting really tired of that).

 

[RobMA]

I have a BX-23 with a backhoe and I find it extremely handy. So far, it has not disappointed me when digging. I've dug out hillsides to put in retaining walls, drainage ditches, etc.

After I do a job, I keep comparing it to digging in butter. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif I'm in New England and we have rocks EVERYWHERE! I have not had a problem pulling them out of the ground.

- Rob

 

[Jimbrown]

The backhoe works fine but is slow. It does not have much reach so you have to move a lot. About 4 feet per move is all you can get. Not sure what you call a decent size rock. The problem is it may not fit into the bucket you may have to strap or chain it to move it. Plus it does not take a very big rock to weigh 500lb. I have lots of good size rocks that my BX simply can not move other than to drag them.

 

[Jim_Becker]

I love the 'hoe on my BX22. It has come in handy for a great deal of jobs around here. That said, I'm not sure I'd try to dig a "fairly good sized pond" with it. I'd either hire out that job or rent something larger for the one-time use. It's not just a matter of time...the BX does have some limits given it's weight, etc. 99% of the time it's just right for the average homeowner/estate needs. That other 1% is better handled by bigger equipment with either you or someone else in the seat!

 

[BotaGuy]

I just bought a BX23...not much seat time yet...BUT, I have used anough equipment and hired enough to know that anything larger than a backyard koi pond, and I would hire the big stuff done. There would always be plenty of finish work to do.

I have read here and there that the backhoe was slow...I do not think that is the case. I think the controls seem crisp.

 

[RobMA]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I have read here and there that the backhoe was slow...I do not think that is the case. I think the controls seem crisp. )</font>

I agree. Although the standard BH scoop is only 10" wide it does take a lot of passes to move dirt. I have found that I can do most jobs I need to as long as I take my time. I'm too cheap to hire out so I'll spend the time doing it myself. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

- Rob

 

[Jibber]

If you have a lot of rocks, you may want to consider the larger L3130. I've found the BH-90 to be very capable when it comes to relocating the numerous icebergs in my lawn.

see attached..

 

[ScotR]

I've had my BX23 for a couple of weeks. Seems to me that the back hoe is the strongest feature of the tractor. My dealer ordered mine with the 12" bucket. A sizeable pond will likely take quite a long time to excavate even with the larger bucket, but it you're enjoying every minute of it - WHO CARES!!!

 

[SCB]

Hasbro,
I live in Wa also. I have found the BX23 very capable of trenching in the soil I have. I have dug out stumps stump removal , and have dug trenches for water line and will be putting in my other services with it for the house I am planning. The pond will be a challenge for any subcompact, but if time is on your side it will do it fine. What part of WA are you from?

 

[hasbro]

I live in Wesern Washington, around the Snohomish area. I'm trying to figure out if the BX23 will have enough to do the job. Regardless of how much time it takes. The way I figure it, the alternative is a shovel, which is the way I've done things in the past. Where did you buy yours and did you think you got a good deal. I'm talking to a couple of different dealers to see what kind of a price i can get.