Couple of questions on the BX Series

[JonLeonard]

I took some time this weekend to visit a local Kubota dealer and test drive a BX1800. So, I have a couple of questions that the dealer didnt answer to my satisfaction.

Is it possible to add a remote valve to the rear of the tractor? I want to build a hydraulic dump wagon and need a place to hook it up.

Is it ok to use the 60" mowing deck on the BX1800?

The dealer told me, that they is no noticable difference between the power of the 1800 and the 2200. Can anyone confirm/deny this?

He also said that he would suggest getting a B7500 if I wanted to use a post hole digger. Anyone used one with a BX, and if so, what size of auger?

Lastly, I noticed from reading on these boards, that the loader valve that comes as standard equipment is a 3 way valve. Supposedly the 4 way one is a $60 upgrade. Does that mean that the load has no down pressure?

I would think that is Kubota is planning the add a backhoe to the list of options for a BX, then the loader would need down pressure in order to level/stabilize the tractor.

Jon Leonard
Newbie Tractor Operator and Information Gatherer

 

[Charliebrn]

I can only answer a couple of the questions.

It looks to me that you SHOULD be able to add a remote, there is even an unused lever area on the rt hand fender...in my inexperienced mind, that tell sm that that it should be available.

Yes, I have seen where people have put a 60" deck on the 1800. Tall grass may affect you more than if you had the extra HP of the 2200, but I can't say for sure. The owners manual only shows a couple of differences in recommended attachments between the 2200 and the 1800, width of tiller is one of them if i remember correctly. I would think that the 1800 can handle everythiing the 2200 can do, if perhaps smaller bites of whatever you are doing. On occasion I've strained my 2200, and was glad of all the torque I had.

The loader does have down pressure, in conjunction with a float position. I can lift the front end off the ground and was unaware of any other option. I would be at a loss as to what may be missing, actually, since a 4-in-1 bucket isn't available in the BX as far as I am aware...

Kubota is coming oout with a backhoe, and I have rented a post hole digger (9") that worked just fine. Any bigger diameter may need more power, though.

 

[TresCrows]

I alos rented a post hole digger--worked fine. I should think the 1800 can handle the 60 inch since the 2200 handles it with such ease it is too bad there is not a 72 for it. I have the 4-way valve. You should go ahead and get that and it was about 60 dollars more. Yes, downforce is available with the lever pushed up till you get to the float detent and then it is gravity alone. J

 

[Charliebrn]

Trescrows,

what's the difference between valves? I didn't know there were any options on it....Mine has 5 positions: Roll back, dump, raise, power lower and float.....

 

[JonLeonard]

I am wondering now if I really know as much about hydraulics as I thought I did.

I was assuming 1 "way" for raise, 1 for lower, 1 for curl, and 1 for uncurl. For a total of 4 "ways" with a 4 way valve.

Can someone give me the 50 cent explanation on how this really works, and how the "float" plays into it all?

 

[NYTrainer]

Instead of me always asking questions maybe I give an answer for once.
I had inquired about the 4 way valve option and this is what I understand it to be. The four way is used if you plan on buying any Kubota "quick attach" front mounted implements (snowblower, front blade, etc) I believe the option (which is available as a kit) would include some sort of mount/support because when you back out of the FEL to remove it, you also are removing the control valve assembly.
My BX 2200 is arriving this Wednesday so I am not talking from experience, only repeating what I was told. I'm convinced, since I'm not interested in the blade or snowblower, to order mine without the option. BTW, the valve costs $160 more list.
David

 

[Roy]

Float allows for it to follow the ground surface, without downward pressure. As the contour rises and falls, so does the FEL on the surface. Comes in handy for doing things like picking up loose material (so it doesn't dig in to the turf), or for grading when pulling back loose soil.

Roy

 

[GlueGuy]

<font color=blue>because when you back out of the FEL to remove it, you also are removing the control valve assembly</font color=blue>

David,

It's my understanding that the BX FEL control is pretty much the same as the B series. On my B7500 the control assembly (spool valves, joystick, & mounting bracket) stay with the tractor, not the FEL. The hoses disconnect right at the control, and the hose stays with the FEL.

The GlueGuy

 

[TresCrows]

I may be incorrect in this but here is what I am reading, the 4-way has a two-stage dump, to the right is regular and further to the right is has greater dumping speed, the first position should be used when operating a front blade or similar with the loader valve. The positions are seperated by a feel position. I could be entirely incorrect. J

 

[Bird]

I don't know for sure, but I'm pretty sure you've got it right, TresCrows.

And GlueGuy, on some tractors the joystick and valve stay with the loader instead of the tractor, and I think that's the case with the BX series. Some of these BX owners will know for sure.

Bird

 

[Roy]

<font color=blue> I think that's the case with the BX series</font color=blue>. That is correct, valve stays with the LA211 loader.

Roy

 

[frank_f15]

trescrows: i beleive u are correct. my b2400 operates just the way u said. the first position(right) is for slow dump,and farther right gives u faster dump. it is most certainly by feel, but it is noticable. i think it is worth the money.

 

[msocko3]

The BX1800 does handle the 60" deck with ease, and yes your dealer is correct that there is no real noticable difference in power between the BX1800 & 2200. The difference is kind of like comparing the real feel of a 800 mhz pentium 3 vs a 900 mhz pentium 3, you need benchmarking software to tell the difference because you would be hard pressed to feel it. I've been through 6-8" high field grass with my BX1800 60" mower without my engine even boging.

 

[JonLeonard]

Lots of Help. Thanks!

Any idea on how the horsepower difference affects resale value? If I buy the 2200 and pay the extra $500, will I get it back (or more) when I sell it?

If they are as reliable as everyone says, sale of the tractor should be at least 15 years down the road, but its good to protect your investment.

Jon

 

[Roy]

Jon; No crystal ball nor history to predict. My own personal gut instinct is that there will be no noticeable resale value. Age, condition of the unit, and hours will play a greater role.

Don't worry about getting $500 back in 15 years. Even with moderate inflation, the $500 will probably be equivalent to looking at a $100 difference now-a-days. (Guess… didn't bother running actual numbers).

Given the way HP has increased over the years, within 10 to 15 years 4 HP will be viewed as a nit. In the future, they will probably be selling rider mowers with 50 HP (or, at least, that's what the manufactures will claim /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif).


Roy

 

[richfromPA]

hey jon,
i was looking at yer lot size and conditions. i would spend the extra buck for the horsepower. for one you wont be second quessing yerself and two you will have the oportunity when you need it. at least if you find out the bx2200 doesnt have enuff power you will know you need to spend alot more money.
rich