Converting from pin-on to QA?

dnw64 · Aug 21, 2018

I just bought a B3030 with traditional pin-on FEL. Is it feasible to convert to QA, or are the loader arms completely different? I'd like to be able to use QA Forks and a Grapple, if not other things in the future.

RickB · Aug 21, 2018

If it is a Kubota loader there’s an excellent chance that a QA device can be purchased from Kubota and installed on your arms. There may be aftermarket choices as well from outfits like HLA and ATI.

downsizingnow48 · Aug 21, 2018

I made a SSQA from scratch for my B21. Because there were no commercial options. In looking for commercial options, there are 4 main things to consider. First is loader pin size, the QA has to match what you have. Second is distance between the two loader pins. QA has to match or be very close. If not, curl and dump will be different and maybe unworkable. Third is width. Needs to be close. You can use washers or spacers to make up the difference. The fourth is rollback angle. You need a QA that will allow required rollback for bucket, or forks, as well as required dump angle.

goeduck · Aug 22, 2018

Assuming you have the LA403 loader ATI makes a premade, easy to install conversion kit. Not cheap, it will run you around a grand.

Tach-All Quick Attach, Loader Attachments, ATI Corporation

davedj1 · Aug 22, 2018

I just converted my L2850 to quick attach. If you have the capabilities to cut and weld it's not too bad. You can read my thread here: https://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/400139-converting-my-pin-loader-skid.html

downsizingsnow48 makes some very good points to consider. Mine works great. It did take some head scratching though...lol

Wagtail · Aug 22, 2018

Just be aware that there are other QA systems available than the SSQA.

The heavier (weight-wise) SSQA is primarily designed for a skid steer.

RickB · Aug 22, 2018

Wagtail said:
Just be aware that there are other QA systems available than the SSQA.

The heavier (weight-wise) SSQA is primarily designed for a skid steer.

And used as a factory item on Kubota tractors from the BX series on up. SSQA devices have more OEM and aftermarket choices for attachments than any other style. Choosing any other style for a B series Tractor would be a mistake.

JWR · Aug 22, 2018

RickB said:
And used as a factory item on Kubota tractors from the BX series on up. SSQA devices have more OEM and aftermarket choices for attachments than any other style. Choosing any other style for a B series Tractor would be a mistake.

Agree if there is much of any chance of adding attachments to your arsenal. The skid-steer flavor SSQA is (obviously) standardized unlike the various manufacturers' proprietary pins systems -- so much so that you have literally hundreds of gadgets that could be handled with the SSQA. Kubota was the first of the prime tractor brands (blue, red, green) to put the SSQA on most if not all of their larger models. Smart move.

The OP said "I'd like to be able to use QA Forks and a Grapple, if not other things in the future." The extent to which you really will use that desire is the extent to which you will or will not pay $1000 to get on board with the SSQA standard. Probably good time to shop around. For that much $ you might find something in an auction that you could swap parts off of it and resell ?

dnw64 · Aug 22, 2018

JWR said:
The OP said "I'd like to be able to use QA Forks and a Grapple, if not other things in the future." The extent to which you really will use that desire is the extent to which you will or will not pay $1000 to get on board with the SSQA standard. Probably good time to shop around. For that much $ you might find something in an auction that you could swap parts off of it and resell ?

Good point. I have no immediate need, so keeping my eyes open for used opportunities would be ideal.

Thanks all for the tips and info.

goeduck · Aug 22, 2018

Borrowing attachments should also be a factor. Chances are the person you borrow from has a SSQA.

Hiptfarms · Aug 22, 2018

You my also need to consider the costs of adding a third function to your loader, assuming you dont already have that. Or, rear remotes to run a line to the front to be able to use a grapple. I was temporarily considering adding a ssqa to the L4400 I bought a few weeks back but quickly decided against it after considering the steep price of the third function setup along with the quick attach conversion. I decided to hold off and add the grapple to my m6800 instead since I would be able to do more with it and I already have the rear remote.

Good luck with your project.