Backhoe Reasonable to expect to move BH between tractors?

canoetrpr · Feb 11, 2009

How reasonable is it to expect that I will be able to move a backhoe I buy now for my Kubota L3400 to a future tractor (e.g. Grand L3540) which will definitely require a different sub-frame?

I've pondered buying a backhoe but then think that I will lose money if I sell my tractor with the backhoe on it, or, I will be out $1k or so buying a new sub-frame to move it on to a different tractor.

I'm not in a position to trade up now but might be in 5 years or so. I figure a loss of $1k or so isn't too bad to be able to use a backhoe now that I can transfer to a future tractor.

What do you think?

BTW. It is not a huge issue for me to buy a bigger backhoe for a future GL or similar tractor given the tasks I am going to use it for... nothing other than hobby uses - planting a tree, digging flower beds, etc. etc. I figure a 8ft backhoe should be plenty.

The BH I had in mind was the Woods BH80X.

Ductape · Feb 11, 2009

I'd say it would be a good idea.................... as long as Woods makes a subframe kit for the new tractor. Yes, you'd lose what you spent on your current subframe, but in the grand scheme of things it wouldn't be so bad. Aside from the subframe, you'd most likely need a new hydraulic hose kit, but not a big deal.

KennyV · Feb 12, 2009

You can also sell your sub-frame on ebay, every now and then they are listed and do sell. I have a watch for a woods sub-frame there now ... KennyV

IslandTractor · Feb 12, 2009

It should be trivial to get a new subframe for a popular Kubota model. Woods probably has them in stock and develops new subframes for new Kubotas all the time.

john_bud · Feb 12, 2009

3400 to 3540 may even be the same subframe. Or they may share components. Will have to ask Woods. May be cheaper than you think.

jb

rokee101 · Feb 20, 2009

The BH80-X backhoe I purchased for my L3540 HSTC needed specific subframe kit(5" longer for cab tractor) about $600.. well worth it . I'll try to post pics.. and my fork attach I made...

canoetrpr · Feb 22, 2009

rokee101:

That is a really NICE looking setup. Some day I hope to have a tractor with a cab as well and if it fits that well, I think that I might as well save up and get that BH80X sooner rather than later.