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3 point hitch backhoe question

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domogala
Join Date: Apr 2004
Posts: 34 Windham, NH
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2004-04-16          83376

I'm starting research on 30-35HP model tractors. From what I observed so far, some tractors use a 4 point mount for the backhoe and some use the 3 point hitch. In addtion, some models require subframe kits. Can someone easily explain the differences between these options and the advantages/disadvantages?

Thanks,

Jeff


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3 point hitch backhoe question

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HuckMeat
Join Date: Jan 2004
Posts: 121 Colorado
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2004-04-17          83381

I'm a relative newbie, but did some research and got a lot of help from the guys on this board. The 3 point hitch backhoes fit as described, but the forces of the backhoe operation are transmitted to the components of the tractor. Advantage: cheaper, mostly universal fit. Disadvantage: can be very hard on tractor chassis & hitch, break parts, etc. May be more time consuming to attach (depends on model). May be limited in size/capability by connection (not sure).

I'm not sure about a 4 point mount, but I bought my kubota with the subframe mount.

From my understanding, and experience, the subframe mount connects the backhoe directly to the tractor frame, spreading the forces out over the whole tractor. This makes the tractor happier, and less likely to damage other tractor parts. Advantages: stronger, spreads out forces. Possibly bigger backhoe capabilities. Disadvantages: cost, some subframes drastically reduce clearance, may require removal of hitch linkages to install backhoe.

I have the BH90, and am very impressed with it. The mount is super beefy, and the backhoe mounts quickly with 2 pins, plus 2 tabs from a bar on the backhoe that engage with the subframe. Only drawback is I need to remove the 3 point linkages, but I might be able to get around that with a little work.

I've seen it recommended that a subframe always be used to prevent/minimize potential damage to the tractor - I've only used the subframe, so I'm not qualified there. ....

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3 point hitch backhoe question

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hardwood
Join Date: Dec 2002
Posts: 3583 iowa
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2004-04-17          83384

Jeff; There are three basic types of tractor mounted backhoes. First is the fullsize dedicated machine we've all wished we could have. I shoped for one before I got the #48 Deere hoe, seemed that 25,000. was about the least you could spend to get something that was'nt worn out. I have two neighbors with 3pt. mount hoes. They chimed right in with what HuckMeat said, real hard on 3pt. hitches, some also needed a separate PTO driven pump, were'nt real stable while in use, etc., both said find something better. I had a # 4300 Deere tractor at the time so I liked the subframe idea and bought one. I've since traded the 4300 for a 4310 and put the hoe on it. It's been a real nice solid unit, Just this winter I put a Deere 4 in one bucket on the 430 loader. The #48's do come off quite easily, but we've just turned the 4310 into a dedicated unit and bought a 4410 to do the mowing, etc. My son and I used the hoe all day yesterday cleaning up rocks and fencerow brush and old stumps. The 4 in one bucket is really a neat deal. We would dig out some brush or stumps, use the clam bucket to gather and pick up the brush or stumps. Seems like every time the hoe was off we needed it for something, so I guess my justification was that a new 4410 cost lots less than a worn out fullsize hoe, granted it has less capibilitys, but serves 98% of our needs. Just my thoughts, Frank. ....

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bnrhuffman
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 107 Falling Waters WV
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2004-04-17          83385

I agonized over the decision of which hoe to buy for a long, long time and finally decided to get the Kubota BL4690B (3PH, 7.5ft depth) backhoe for my Grande L 3130. I couldnt decide between the 4690 and the BH90 (9.0ft depth) which is a subframe, fourpoint mount.
For my tractor and my use, my dealer strongly recommended the BL4690B. Most on this board and others pushed for a subframe mounted hoe, and for good reasons but I chose the 3PH type.
After seeing the 4690 mounted on the tractor, I would have to agree with the majority. I should have gotten the larger hoe not so much because of its mounting system, but because I think that Ive limited myself as far as digging depth and power.
The 3PH mounting really doesnt bother me too much. Its easy on and easy off, my particular tractor already has a frame that connects the rear axle to the loader frame and has a really beefy 3PH and I love the idea of the seperate hydro pump on the 4690 (the BH90 uses tractor hydraulics). ....

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TomG
Join Date: Feb 2002
Posts: 5406 Upper Ottawa Valley
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2004-04-17          83404

Small for the tractor is good in a 3ph-mount hoe and also ensuring it won't compromise warranty coverage.

I have a mild 6' 3ph hoe for my 2,500 lbs. tractor. It has worked just fine over 5 years for my occasional needs. The downside of a small hoe is that the tractor has to be moved very frequently for trenching 4' and deeper. It takes a bunch of time and I'd call them undesirable for significant lengths of 5' or deeper trenches.

My hoe has been a good match between my needs and my budget and I'd do it again, but I do consciously take it easy with the hoe. No heavy root breaking or rock levering in trenches. No digging in hard soil (it's sandy here) with the hoe stretched out. Digging forces create high top-link compression and a stretched out hoe magnifies those forces. With a small 3ph hoe, it's tempting to stretch it out so the tractor has to be moved less frequently, but just don't do it unless it's a really soft dig. 3ph hoes can work out OK but the limitations and risks should be understood ....

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3 point hitch backhoe question

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oneace
Join Date: Mar 2004
Posts: 1490 south central pa
TractorPoint Premium Member -- 5 Tractors = Very Frequent Poster  View my Photos  Pics

2004-04-17          83437

all i have to say is check out the link these are the best on the market at this time ....


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