Upgrading from BX25 to B2601 opinions

[rusty1778]

I'm looking for opinions from anyone who upgraded from a BX25 to the small size B, I'm specifically looking at the new B2601. It's more money than I figured it would be to upgrade after talking to the dealer so I'd like some feedback on how much more capable the BH65 backhoe is as well as loader lift and traction when box blading, etc. The reason I'm looking to upgrade is I have a fairly long ATV path cut through our wooded property (more than a mile) that I'd like to turn into more of a road with proper ditching in areas that need it (a lot of it is quite soft) and I think the B would be more up to the task with the higher ground clearance.

That's my excuse anyways... the BX is 4 years old and new tractors are hard not to look at. Also the position control 3PH and deluxe seat look like great upgrades.

Let me know what you think!

 

[JOHNTHOMAS]

I've owned most of the different sizes of BXs and a B7800, B3200, B2320 and a B2620 FEL BH plus one L3240 HST. Had a BX25 a few years ago and traded it to a B2620 FEL BH which I used some and then recently traded it to a new BX25D1. I like the size of the BX25 for my current needs which have changed over the years as projects have been completed and scrapped.
The Bs run a bit rougher, if you get one, just part of the beast. Of course the BH and FEL are stronger, you sit a bit higher off the ground. Traction may be a bit stronger with a B set up right. I liked the B but just like the BXs better, again, for my purposes.
I've also hired out some jobs that initially required more specific excavation work than tractor work and also steep hill side excavation and some big tree removal work and felt I saved major money, time and escaped some seriously dangerous situations.
Figure your 95% of ongoing needs to size your tractor. Hire out the other 5%. But in defense of trading, I understand and traded my first time to get higher ground clearance (BX2200 MMM FEL to B7800 FEL) and after B7800 paid off 3 years later traded to a L3240HST which was to big for my needs and scary hillside and traded back to a B3200 and on and on and on. Tractors trade and sell just about like cars/trucks even though tractor company/dealer situation is much different. Some dealers (Barlows) sell many, many new and used tractors where some dealers only want to sell new and won't give much for a used tractor, so avoid them. They also usually want to make major profit on each sell and guess they need to if they don't do what it takes to keep sales moving plus used equipment requires repairs and keeps their maintenance depts. open.
I owned a BX2660 and a B3200 both at one time and did a side by side evaluation with pics a few years ago. You may want to search for it and Bpfick went from a BX to a B back to a BX and did a great evaluation for your search.

 

[rusty1778]

Thanks for the response, great info.

 

[zionview]

I have a BX and a B. If you have many attachments, you may need to alter them. For instance, my rototiller PTO is cut to length for the BX and is too short for the B. Some of my other attachments for the B are too wide at the lower 3 pt. pins for the BX.

 

[sandyc]

Had 2620tlb and loved its power and reliability. Just traded it in on a b3350 as most of my hours are now either snow plowing or blowing and at my age I can't stand the cold anymore.
The 2620 dug many large pine stumps and dug holes to bury them. Didn't miss a beat. If I need a back hoe I have a friend that I can call on to help out.
You'll like the b as it has more ground clearance, traction, and a bigger hoe than the box. Good luck and enjoy the new ride.

Sent from my iPhone using TractorByNet

 

[rusty1778]

Believe it or not the little backhoe on my BX has dug out lots of large stumps over the years I've had it and buried them, it has never failed on one yet. I'm sure a B would take care of them quicker though.

 

[MikeBo]

The B2650 has a larger frame and more ground clearance, than the 2601 and a stronger FEL... Something to consider.

 

[AHNC]

I think John brings up an interesting point. You own a nifty BX25 all ready. Would you be better to keep the 25 and rent a bigger machine when you need it, or as John noted, there are definitely times it is better to hire a pro to do the work, getting it done better quicker and safer. I guess it will depend on how the numbers come out, your resources and what are your requirements once this job is done. I also have to say that after you read enough of John's post, you get hypnotized and want to trade. it's like a swinging pocket watch...

 

[JOHNTHOMAS]

Heh, if you trade just always remember that if you made/make a mistake there are plenty more new tractors and you can always trade again. No big deal. :dance1:

 

[JOHNTHOMAS]

I did a dissertation here a few years ago on your first tractor being your test/evaluation tractor to determine which tractor you should buy. May try to find it and bump for current reading.