wondering about lk3054 and dk40se and others..

[JoelD]

I've been pleased with my backhoe.
Jim, maybe be time to either replace valve block (surplus center or northern tool or others), or replace the machine. Doesn't seem to be doing you much good if so unhappy with hoe, it's a significant part of the machine.
Tough to judge a machine's model run based on a couple of machines.

I really like the simplicity of the 3054 and I really like the mounting system of the hoe and loader, very easy on and off.

 

[jim_n_nh]

No I mean the backhoe leaks, in ten minutes of run time to get the backhoe on again I lost 1 1/2 gallons of fluid.

 

[JoelD]

by leaking I am thinking either cyl. seals, or valve block. Either way, should be a matter of replacing packing and or O-rings. assuming it's not something as straight forward as a hose. I've read other posts mentioning replacing the O-rings in the valve body. I've had a number of used machines and in each case there's been need for repair (in most cases not disclosed by seller), that's the trade off for saving $10K off a new machine. I've sold a large number of used machines over the years and in each case, sold as is, whether stated in the sales contract or not. I've never contractually stated a warranty. When asked why not, I say, that's why your paying $10K less than new and then provide the contact information for Rick Wallace in order for them to follow-up with Rick for the purchase of a new warrantied machine. Furthermore, I have no idea what the new owner will do with or to the machine, there is no way I can assume liability for their actions. Had one guy buy a used riding mower from me, called me three weeks later telling me it didn't cut right. I go to his house after 14 hours behind the computer at work, long story short, he'd replaced the deck blades and left the washers off, the blades spun freely on the spindle shafts. I ended up finding the washers, that he insisted never existed, in the grass right where he had been when he replaced the blades. I wasted 2 hours away from my 2 year old because of that guy. One lesson I learned, in order to avoid any confusion, I always clearly document no warranties stated or implied.

 

[jsg]

As a DK owner I've voted with my feet (?wallet) but I think most would agree that despite the solid record of the LK that the new DKs are better in almost every way except price and size.

The KL401 is a strong argument for the DK.

If I were on the fence I'd go with the DK and figure out ways to accomplish the BH tasks that could not be done with an FEL. If the BH is really a critical attachment then the LK30 is a great bang for the buck and well proven.

thank you for all this - and more.

i am going to take most of this summer to refine my needs / assess my situation

there certainly are many factors to be considered.

 

[jsg]

The backhoe is quick to come on and off, support with outriggers and boom, pull one lever, lift a couple of inches, drive off, unplug hydraulics and good to go.

The LK is capable of a lot of work and has a good reputation for durability.

these are the major selling points for me in addition to price and compact size.

I must agree with others, after owning a number of machines before working my way up to the correct size, going a little bigger is generally always better. Good luck with your decision. Nothing matches a hoe for digging, lifting and placing heavy objects, etc.

and here is where the decision lies..i am giving myself a few months to decide, however.

which means that now i'll have the 'luxury' of struggling with something and asking the question "now what piece of equipment would make this task easier / enjoyable / more efficient ?"

 

[jsg]

And a boxblade is more useful than a scraper blade, but does depend on the tasks that need to be accomplished.

I would think you could get better pricing on the Bransons. The Bransons are nice for pulling because they are about as heavy you will find. The Branson 50HL loader is really good too. Also, check out Mahindra.

i hadn't really considered the box blade - i will now.

i was originally considering the ck35 but flip-flopped on issues of price, durability, and ease of backhoe removal -- i'll probably have to revisit some of these assumptions.

bransons are still in the running - although i am getting better prices on the kiotis for 'more' machine (all things being equal, which they never are..)

closest mahindra is 200 miles - branson is 10 - kioti is 60.

thanks for replying.

 

[jsg]

I've pulled some big roots out with my ck30 backhoe. Best I can do is roll them. Hopefully downhill.
While a toothbar is a great thing. I don't dig much with my loader, the backhoe does that. But it does allow me to pick up things with my loader that I couldn't hope to pick up otherwise.

In the end, If I'd have gotten a smaller tractor in the first place, I would not have been happy at all. (Thanks TBN). I do not NEED a bigger tractor. But I'm going to because I'm convinced, it you have a bigger tractor, it means your a manly sort of man! And might even mean you have a bigger weenie!

yes..buyer's remorse..

gonna think lots over the summer - i'll see if one of the dealers would let me try one of them out in the fall.

 

[jsg]

and Jim in NH, i truly hope you get your backhoe situation sorted out.

after spending so much time - and money - getting the tool just right for our needs, it can't be enjoyable to be dealing with excessive - and unexpected downtime.

i've been reading a few nightmarish horror-stories and would much rather avoid such situations - if possible.

 

[JoelD]

Not sure if mentioned already, but I am not aware of any manufacturer who can touch Kioti's 4 year, unlimited hour warranty. If buying new, this would be a huge deciding factor for me. And for the record, I've got the same model backhoe as Jim in NH with no issues. Good luck with your decision. I've owned Deere, Case, Kubota, Simplicity and find the Kioti as well built as any other machine I've owned. I'm a big fan, again if Kioti is in the running, and you are anywhere near PA, Rick Wallace is the guy you should speak with. Which brings up a good point, your dealer is very important, a good dealer is a nice thing, a bad dealer is a train wreck. I say nice because a new machine should be fairly trouble free, any dealer is a good dealer when things are smooth. It's when the %#!@ hits the fan that a dealer shows his/her colors. Interview the dealer, their knowledge is key to your success. Let us know how it all works out.