3-Point Hitch L47 three point linkage question (first of many questions from newbie)

DanHen · May 5, 2017

Hello all, been reading through the forum for a couple of years, mostly trying to find information on buying a tractor. I made the plunge and have an L-47 TLB on order, now I have tons of questions that I can't seem to find answers for... I've never owned a tractor and have only operated a few rentals (B-26) and friends skid steers so I'm a complete newb. One of my first projects will be to clear 6 acres of scrub and brush and I'd like to use a bush hog, for that I will need to add the 3 point hardware, it's an option on this machine from Kubota at a cost of about $800. Everything I can find looks like it should be interchangeable, can I buy from another source (for half the money) or should I order from the dealer?

thanks in advance, looking forward to spending some time here.

teg · May 5, 2017

Curious to see what other say but my guess is aftermarket would be slim to no chance... great tractor but a narrow market. It's a bit late but you could have gotten the 3ph linkage as part of the package.... or at least cheaper if rolled into the tractor purchase.

rbargeron · May 5, 2017

For a L47 I'd go with the factory 3-point parts kit. Other Kub TLB models use a special backhoe subframe to anchor the lower 3-point arms which is different than their other models. The arm geometry may be unique to the L47? The new machine has plenty of $margin - add-ons are usually available at a discount. Good luck, Dick B

jeff9366 · May 5, 2017

Also in terms of discouraging you towards generic: Kubota is metric. Generic may be inch standard. Parts may not fit at all.

Wormwood · May 6, 2017

I've got the M62 & it's a little funky monkey when compared to say the Grand L series traditional 3 point hitch system or any other mfg. for that matter. Kubota TLB series is a "backhoe" first & "compact utility tractor" second. So the 3 point hitch system played second on the list of importance. I believe we use the same hitch system b/t the L47 & M62. You might be able to get the Grand L series telescoping lower links to fit but it'll be expensive to buy those lower links by themselves. I'd would NOT consider a generic 3 point hitch, the geometry will not work, same with a quick hitch system.

I bought a generic top link a while back and had to grind on it to get it to fit & it doesn't give me the reach that my kubota top link does, it's in my metal building right now & I'll either sell it or it'll grow legs & run off one of these days.

All considered with an L47 on order, I'd run back up to the dealership & add the 3 point hitch, just tell them you didn't know what you were thinking, they shouldn't have a problem putting it on the order.

Wormwood

boggen · May 6, 2017

running through kubota build a tractor. they offer a TNT (top and tilt) for 3pt hitch for $830. difference between OEM vs third party, most likely the spool valve placement. OEM more likely blend in and easier to use with backhoe on/off. vs going with a third party. OEM / third party hydrualic cylinders, i doubt there going to be a huge difference, then again "don't know the spec's"

would say go for telescopic lower lift arms if possible. i am *not a fan* of quick attach systems that look like an upside down U.

looking at pictures at kubota site, it looks like some descent "bends" in the lower lift arms. at connecting to tractor, and then again on opposite end connecting to implements. if you can find telescopic lower lift arms with descent bends *do not know*

pats easy hitch, is next option.

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you don't need a TNT nor telescopic lower lift arms, nor pats easy hitch, or a quick attach. basic generic 3pt hitch stuff works. but you better plan for some frustrations, if implements set in grass/mud/rock driveway. as stuff seats and sinks in some, and not backing up just right.

with a rotatry mower (bush hog), they tend to be heavy, well more to the point how far they stick out behind the tractor plus the weight, makes them a heavy as in a tetter totter. and you may have issues lift heavier rotary mowers if you have longer lower lift arms and/or some sort of quick attach on the 3pt hitch. its fine on level ground, its when you are in some ruts, in a ditch and hung up on something, and not having much of any sort of traction, and just wanting to lift the rotary mower up, so you can clear stuff and get on going.

RichM752 · May 6, 2017

I bought a L47TLB a few month ago, and added the 3pt hitch assembly, along with a few other goodies with the original purchase. The whole package ended up being like 12.5% off the list price from the "build my Kubota" page on the web. Backhoe still attached, and will be until late fall when snow arrives, and snowblower needs to be used.
I did manage to get for no charge the following.....outrigger cylinder guards,pads, and a secret switch that disables key function to start tractor, a case of grease, two ball caps, and a real cool jacket.
For as much dough as I spent I believe I could have had included, a set of filters for the 50hr service, which came up fairly quick.
Welcome to the club. Looking forward hearing more from you regarding your new toy.

DanHen · May 6, 2017

Thank you for the feedback. After sitting here considering the question for a while it occurred to me that the linkage probably wasn't the best thing to save a few bucks on.... Called the dealer and added the linkage on. Next up will be a brush cutter, looking at Everything Attachments, their video's are helpful for a newbie...