New to Board - Need expert Advice

legalfire · Dec 28, 2003

Hello All-
Not sure whether this post should go under Kubota buying/pricing, however, I was wondering if anyone has experience with using a backhoe on a B1550 or a B7300. Are there problems/issues with either machine and a small hoe? I am a homeowner with very small projects. For larger projects I had borrowed a friends B-21 for 3 months and obviously that machine is extremly durable for heavier projects. Small landscaping projects and moving loom around in selected areas are my focus for the Spring. I have a JD X465 for snowblowing (and mowing if I want to) and an Exmark walk behind for mowwing so the 7300 or 1550 would be fairly dedicated to keeping the loader and backhoe on. I would prefer a subframe backhoe. I am aware of the argument that the 7300's lack of power steering can be an issue with a loaded bucket of dirt, however, I have seen a 7300 with a loader and a subframe hoe and it seemed to be a sturdy machine. Again, I apologize if I should be on the buying forum, but I have the opportunity to buy a 7300 or a 1550 from private parties at reasonable prices, low hours, great shape, etc.. - my thought is that some of you may have existing experience with these machines and specific knowledge of any problems with small backhoes, etc. vis-a-vis these machines Thanks in advance for any help.

David

Bob_Skurka · Dec 28, 2003

I have no experience with either of the two machines, but I agree with your assessment that subframes are good things for small backhoes. Given that you have a choice of two used units, both presumably in great condition, I would base the choice on which one you are more comfortable with. Do the contols fit you better on either machine, etc? Also, which machine has more features such as HST? The lack of power steering on the 7300 would certainly be a factor in my choice; turning from a standstill on soft ground with a full bucket can be a chore. For small landscape construction projects either should be a good choice.

legalfire · Dec 28, 2003

Bob-
Thanks for your practical advice. Both are HST and the 1550 has power steering. Your comment about turning a machine w/o power steering with a bucket of dirt is something that concerns me. From what you say, it sounds as if both machines will meet my needs - but the p/s on the 1550 could make life easier. Thanks again.

Egon · Dec 28, 2003

I have a Kubota B7100HST. It does not have power steering. When doing loader work the elbows, shoulders and arms are quite sore after a days work. Power steering is very desirable in my book.

Egon

Kelvin · Dec 28, 2003

David,

The B7300 is probably 8 to 10 years newer than the B1550. Other than that, the B1550 has the advantage in most categories.

I have the original Kubota sales brochures on both tractors, and I'll pass along some information about the two tractors that you are considering.

(1) The B1550 has power steering

(2) The B1550 has 17 hp; the B7300 has 16 hp.

(3) I'm pretty sure (but not positive) that the B1550 has "position control" on the 3-point lift where the B7300 does not. Although this won't be a factor with the backhoe, the position control does make yard box work easier.

(4) The B1550 has a tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge. The B7100 (the tractor the B7300 replaced) did not have any of these gauges; the B7300 brochure that I have does not show a picture of the panel and does not mention whether the gauges exist or not. It appears that the B7400 (which replaced the B7300) does have the aforementioned gauges.

The B7400's sales brochure recommends the B4672 backhoe for the B7400, B7500, B2410, B2710, B7800 and B2910. The B2710, B7800 and B2910 will take larger backhoes as well. I believe that the B4672 backhoe does NOT have a sub-frame. I've been told that there are 3rd party backhoe companies that make the smaller backhoes with the subframe, but I can't confirm that.

Good luck.
Kelvin

art · Dec 28, 2003

I'd see if the hoe is sloppy to the tractor when hooked. The factory Kubota loaders gave support to the rear axle and from there you are safe with the Kubota factory units. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif