Quick Coupler for FEL

vjcunr · Dec 2, 2004

I'm still trying to decide what to buy...I'm leaning toward the L3130 with the LA723 FEL. The only other front end implement I need is a snowblower which mounts separately, I believe. Do I want (need) the quick coupler? I have no pallets to fork or bales to spear. What else would I want to "quickly couple?"

Also-Is the HD bucket with reversible cutting edge worth the extra money?

The best news of all is that the latest storm convinced my wife that we "need" a tractor...and by we I mean me!

Poli · Dec 2, 2004

I can't help you on your question but I do want to congradulate you on at least knowing the tractor and FEL you want ! I've decided to get the L3130 also but I keep changing my mind about 10 times a day on the 513 or 723 FEL. Good luck.

vjcunr · Dec 2, 2004

I had the same indecision between the different loaders, but I'm going with the LA723 so I can eventually add the BH90 backhoe. The smaller loader is not compatible with this backhoe. I recall there are some issues with mid mount mowers, but I won't be using one.

ronjhall · Dec 2, 2004

<font color="blue"> I have no pallets to fork or bales to spear. </font>
Pallet forks are used for more than pallets.
I use my Quick Coupler for, Boom Pole, 6'6" blade, Bucket w/tooth-bar, Bucket w/grapple, 3PH adapter and pallet forks.
I purchased my tractor without Quick Coupler. Then got it with the pallet forks. If I ever buy another tractor it will have the Quick Coupler also.
You may not have a need for all the above FEL attachments. But if you ever decide to have any 2 of them you will appreciate the feature.
One other item, the Quick Coupler on the 723 is compatible with Skid Steer attachments.

Dirt_Works · Dec 2, 2004

One thing to consider, at least something I noticed testing both the 513 and 723 is the 723 is much more iron than the 513 and you can tell it. that is one of the reasons I moved from the 3430 to 3830. Dealer spec sheet has loader and HD bucket plus quick detach at 1450# thats some serious weight to think about. Plus has any one metioned a counter weight (implement or ballast box on your 3 PNT hitch) with that much loader you will need something there or you will find the rear off the ground when trying to move heavy loads.

80GATOR · Dec 2, 2004

I purchased the L3130 with 513 FEL and quick attach (bucket & forks) and have absolutely no regrets. For me it is absolely he best decison I could have made and have changed them back and forth probably 6 times over the last month. This is no question worth spending the extra money. As for the forks...I used them to clean-up tree debris after getting hit by two separate hurricanes here in Florida this year. Most of the debris I could pick-up and haul to a big burn pile and never get off my tractor. If I just had the loader/bucket I would have had to get down off the tractor and manually stack. I real pain.

Another thing to think about when you decide.

vjcunr · Dec 2, 2004

That's a good point. I do move a lot of brush piles. These days I am doing it by hand. Thanks for the tips.

texbaylea · Dec 2, 2004

I most strongly recommend the LA723 loader. Yes it does weigh more but its reach and lift capacity is superior enough over the LA513 to make it worth it. The QA option is also worthwhile. I just added the pallet forks and a grubber/stump bucket to the attachments I can use and are very useful.

As to the HD bucket. The bucket alone is a more rugged unit and will have a longer life and will withstand damage better. The bolt on cutting edge is optional and I would suggest that you get a toothbar instead. The normal cutting of the HD bucket is only 1/16" thinner than the bolt-on edge which can always be added later.

Check out www.markhamwelding.com for attachments that are very well made and reasonably priced. Great service as well.

Vernon