Backhoe & MMM compatibility issue (2X20)?

[OneMarineE5]

I either heard somewhere or read on here something about the backhoe bracket and the mmm not playing nicely together!?

Does anyone know if that only comes into play if you do or do not have independent lift etc? Or is it only if you attempt to have backhoe on at sametime as mmm.

I don't want to be getting into some new issue where I'll have to uninstall some bracket for the one implement before I can put the other implement on!

Having just ordered a 2720 with backhoe and mmm, is there some big issue awaiting me other than not having both on tractor simultaneously?

 

[Runner]

All the brackets that are bolted to the tractor stay on, but you do have to remove the MMM and all of it's supports in order to mount the backhoe. Of course, you also have to remove all the three-point hitch parts as well.

It's not that hard to remove the MMM support pieces, but I wouldn't want to be doing it three times a day. It's a lot easier to switch from a rear mower to the backhoe and vice versa.

 

[wallace]

What did your sales person tell you?

 

[ctlguy]

I am also wondering what the salesman said Deere does claim that the two are not compatable. The claim is that the subframe is in the way of the lift system for either mech or ind lift. You will have to remove the subframe to reinstall lift comp for the deck. See the att pictures

legend for ind lift
1. lift arms
2. lower rockshaft and adj links
3. screws and huts
4. hyd cylinder and hoses

legend for mech lift
1. 3 point draft arms
2. front draft arm pivot assy

So a few tools to remove this mower lift system but should not be a real bad project for a once a year or so procedure. I as well would not want to do it all of the time.

 

[OneMarineE5]

What did your sales person tell you?

I am also wondering what the salesman said Deere does claim that the two are not compatable. The claim is that the subframe is in the way of the lift system for either mech or ind lift. You will have to remove the subframe to reinstall lift comp for the deck. See the att pictures

Unfortunately when I placed the order I was not aware of this issue. I know that he commented that both could not be mounted simultaneously but I do not recall anything regarding bracket removal.....doesn't mean he didn't say it. Perhaps I did not listen carefully as I may have pondered "why would I want both on at sametime anyway?".

Well, is there anything for the backhoe that has to be installed/uninstalled (other than itself) before re-attaching MMM bracket and then deck? Or am I only dealing with MMM bracket as issue? If I'm reading your images correctly ctlguy, then I imagine it's only the deck & bracket!?

Ahhh, I am so excited to take delivery :thumbsup:

and yet I feel :mur:

 

[etcallhome]

I have 2305 w/bh ,indep lift and mmm.
I have left my mower on with bh on, Yes mower was in locked post. but mower was on and ready to mow.
Not sure what dealer may have told you.

Good luck.

 

[Runner]

"I have 2305 w/bh ,indep lift and mmm.
I have left my mower on with bh on, Yes mower was in locked post. but mower was on and ready to mow.
Not sure what dealer may have told you."

The 2305 is different from the other "2" series machines in that it can have the MMM and backhoe on at the same time. The 2320, 2520 and 2720 cannot.

"Well, is there anything for the backhoe that has to be installed/uninstalled (other than itself) before re-attaching MMM bracket and then deck? Or am I only dealing with MMM bracket as issue? If I'm reading your images correctly ctlguy, then I imagine it's only the deck & bracket!?"

None of the "backhoe stuff" needs to be removed to mount the mower.

 

[etcallhome]

Sorry for my mix up....If I would have looked at the 2 attachments I would have seen it is a complete different setup than the 2305.
OneMarineE5 ,my brother has the 2720 has over a 100 hrs and 7 or 8 mo old, he says it is one fine machine .

 

[bkennedy]

I have independent lift MMM and BH on my 2520. To change from mowing to BH I have to drop mower deck and remove it (quick, no tools), remove blower, bags, etc and any parts of 3PH I have on. After deck is off then just bring lift arms for deck back to 'up' position. Then back up to BH and test myself how accurately I can line up to pick it up. Hookup BH

My dealer made a small modification to the underframe of the BH mount - two small notches in the frame were cut and then additional steel was put to strengthen this area. This was done with Deere support for modification, when I originally bought my 2520.

Hope that addresses your issue.

 

[OneMarineE5]

I have independent lift MMM and BH on my 2520. To change from mowing to BH I have to drop mower deck and remove it (quick, no tools), remove blower, bags, etc and any parts of 3PH I have on. After deck is off then just bring lift arms for deck back to 'up' position. Then back up to BH and test myself how accurately I can line up to pick it up. Hookup BH

My dealer made a small modification to the underframe of the BH mount - two small notches in the frame were cut and then additional steel was put to strengthen this area. This was done with Deere support for modification, when I originally bought my 2520.

Hope that addresses your issue.

Am I to understand that "This was done with deere support for mofificarion,..." was done for the purpose of NOT having to remove the MMM bracket? If so......this is like an awesome possibility for me to pursue.

When you mentioned removing parts...3pt...in particular, was this for the independent lift? I am not getting the independent lift....just FYI!

I wouldn't be surprised if others on this thread may find some curiosity in this!

Hmmm, and Deere supported! :cool2:

 

[Runner]

"My dealer made a small modification to the underframe of the BH mount - two small notches in the frame were cut and then additional steel was put to strengthen this area. This was done with Deere support for modification, when I originally bought my 2520."

Pictures are definitely needed.

 

[OneMarineE5]

"My dealer made a small modification to the underframe of the BH mount - two small notches in the frame were cut and then additional steel was put to strengthen this area. This was done with Deere support for modification, when I originally bought my 2520."

Pictures are definitely needed.

Ther ya go bkennedy! People want to know.

I would like to see too so I can twist harder if dealer acts clueless or uninterested in investigating this approach.

It's really a shame that Deere doesn't design this modification into this setup. Have to wonder how many people may not buy this size c.u.t. from deere for this very reason. I am serioulsy pondering my options if I can not obtain this mod in a warranted/Deere approved fashion. Not sure I want this hassle of removing mounting brackets.

Before anyone hits on me that it is not that difficult....

I'm a very spontaneous person when it comes to work (probably partly because my time is so limited....everyones is I'm sure). I run out to barn to use backhoe and realize I mowed last weekend, I may not have time to climb under tractor and remove stuff, put it somewhere for just a couple hours of excavation. Next week encounter problem in reverse. Sneek home with an hour before dark and have to first reinstall brackets......

I'm rambling aren't I

 

[ctlguy]

The modify of the subframe probably works fine would like to see pics myself. Just because Deere says something work does not mean that will a small amount of work it can be made to be compatilbe. This issue I believe is strictly with the 2520 and possibly the 2720 not the 2320 or 2305. I thought I heard that in the future the backhoe is going to be a different model and possibly address this issue.

 

[OneMarineE5]

The modify of the subframe probably works fine would like to see pics myself. Just because Deere says something work does not mean that will a small amount of work it can be made to be compatilbe. This issue I believe is strictly with the 2520 and possibly the 2720 not the 2320 or 2305. I thought I heard that in the future the backhoe is going to be a different model and possibly address this issue.

Do you know when you heard this about possible future modifications? In other words, wonder if the one I have on order could have the conflict addressed.

I'll see if I can get a hold of my dealer! oops! I just re-read.....you said different model.

 

[ctlguy]

And was just a rumer anyhoo so may not be valid. But now that the 48 hoe is going away for sure leaving the 46 as the only straight leg hoe att left in the line up (nout counting kit tractor hoes) it would make sense to come out w/ atleast a curved boom hoe and would hope in the process that it would be compatible w/ all att.

 

[OneMarineE5]

I went to the dealer today to discuss a few things as well as ask specifically about this issue. He says it is still the case that the deck must come of (we all know this), he is not certain whether the bracket still needs to or how extensive the removal/reinstall would be (I believe what you all have told me...I'm now refering to the possibility something may have been redesigned. I have heard no rumors to this, just sayin')!

Regardless, I think I'm going to just let them keep the MMM and put that money towards a lawn tractor. According to "jenklinsph" responding to thread (X300 X304 vs X320 and X324) started by "theschack" in the "John Deere Buying/Pricing" foorum, the X320 should be sufficient (tranny wise) to pull my poly-vac system around. I have verified "jenklinsph" claims and think this may be the way to go for me.

Possible advantages of X320 versus keeping with the MMM;
* I will never have to remove deck brackets or deal with the under tractor clearance issues when operating in woods.
* X320 can stage with poly-cart to collect excavated material from backhoe on 2720.
* Leaf/Lawn work will always be ready to go.
* Backhoe/loader work will always be ready to go.
* Will not have to worry about damaging expensive MMM from uneven driveway during heavy leaf work (possible reference here to "Junk Deere 2520 and 62D falling apart").
* I'll have 2-Deere:thumbsup:

Additional cost. Approximately $1,000.00

In put always welcome.

 

[jenkinsph]

I agree the separate lawn mower is the way to go and should be easier on the lawn areas. I think the X320 should be a good bulletproof mower for most jobs. If I wasn't in the landscape business I would have considered the X320 or similar for my own lawn. The new X749 though is perfect for mowing and light duty chores in confined spaces. Having a small unit like this means my paint on the 4520 cab should last longer too. I think you will find the little extra money spent for the two machine approach will save you alot of grief. The mower is always ready and the tlb is always ready.:thumbsup:

 

[Rob-D]

I agree the separate lawn mower is the way to go and should be easier on the lawn areas. I think the X320 should be a good bulletproof mower for most jobs. If I wasn't in the landscape business I would have considered the X320 or similar for my own lawn. The new X749 though is perfect for mowing and light duty chores in confined spaces. Having a small unit like this means my paint on the 4520 cab should last longer too. I think you will find the little extra money spent for the two machine approach will save you alot of grief. The mower is always ready and the tlb is always ready.:thumbsup:

I agree Steve. That's how i did it too. If you can afford it, this is the way to go.
Rob

 

[bkennedy]

"My dealer made a small modification to the underframe of the BH mount - two small notches in the frame were cut and then additional steel was put to strengthen this area. This was done with Deere support for modification, when I originally bought my 2520."

Pictures are definitely needed.

OK I just made a simple little comment and look what happened......

I had no idea there was so much interest. Sorry, working too much all weekend, didn't see the questions.
Attached a quick picture of a section of the underframe.
I don't know if this answers the question. I certainly have to take my mower deck off to put the BH on, but just the deck.

 

[Runner]

Good information.

Thanks, BK.