BL4690B and B90 Backhoes for the L3130

[Rolando]

I'm hoping that folks that are familiar with either of these BH could make a few comments. My understanding is that the BL4690B has self contained hydraulics and is powered by the tractor PTO, while the B90 uses the tractor hydraulics. What is the impact of that? Is one easier to take on and off than the other?

Does the 3pt hitch have to be taken off in either case, or does either one mount on the 3pt hitch?

I also know the BH90 is more powerful, digs deeper and is more expensive. Any comments on their relative usability?

Speaking of power, if you were going to get the less expensive one, the 4690, would you be better off getting the higher PTO HP of the L3430 or L3830? So that somewhat ironically, you would be better off with the more powerful B90 that uses tractor hydraulics if you were getting the less powerful tractor?

As always, thanks again.

 

[rswyan]

I have the BL4690B on a B2910.

The hydraulics are self-contained (uses an Eaton PTO pump) on the BL 4690B. The BL4690B mounts on the 3PH and uses a special top bracket (replaces the stock one) on my tractor and heavy-duty mast bar (top link) on any tractor it mounts (the 'hoe comes with two masts, you use the one designated for your model)

If I had to guess I'd bet that the BH90 is probably easier to take on and off. From what I have seen it certainly looks to be a much better mount. In the case of the BL4690B I seriously doubt that the PTO horsepower would make any difference in the performance of the 'hoe (due to the specs of the PTO pump and the fact that you can only drive it at 540 rpm)

If it were me, I'd probably tend to go with the larger 'hoe provided the cost factor wasn't insurmountable barrier.

 

[Henro]

I have the BL4690A on my B2910.

Short and sweet answer: Get the BH90 on the 3130. You will thank yourself later.

Otherwise, maybe you should consider a BL4690, and attach a B2910 to it... /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

In my opinion, the BH90 is the hoe that best matches the L series tractors. It mounts better, has more reach, and really does not cost that much more than the BL4690, from what I understand.

Get the BH90...No doubt in my mind that I would if I were buying an L series tractor, knowing what I do now after two years of using the smaller 3PH mounted hoe... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Rolando]

As Carver lists it, the BH90 is a $1,000 more, or on this size purchase, about 15% more. ($6,400 vs. $7,400, plus ship/install). I probably can't afford either unless Kubota goes back to the 36 month 0%, but I'm hoping by the time I need to buy they might go back to it.

Rswyan, could you elaborate on the BH90 looking like a better mount? I'm concerned about how much trouble it will be to take it off and on because I will need to switch between the BH and the box scraper during the house construction and I won't have a floor slab to put a dolly on for quite some time.

 

[Rolando]

Henro, in terms of need, the 4690 would probably be good enough, but I'm just as concerned about how difficult it will be to change out with the scraper box. I think that you've talked before about a dolly making the changing job easier, but I won't have a slab for a while. Are you thinking that the 4690 would be underwhelmed by the L3130 tractor?

One other thing that occurs to me; since the hydraulics are self-contained in the 4690, does that mean you won't have hydraulics available to help you mount the BH? Wouldn't you have to have the 4690 mounted in order to have the PTO connected to have hydraulics?

It looks like they are both mounted on the 3 pt hitch? I will be getting the TnT if that's a help.

 

[Michael_S]

I'm using a BH90, L3830, box blade and other implements to help build a house as well. The BH90 can be off, or on the tractor in about 5 minutes.
This does not include the time it takes to remove/install the 3 point lift arms, and top link. I usually take my time, look things over, grease everything, and have it done in about 30 minutes.
I have always dropped the hoe on the ground. I try to find a level spot if possible, but have never had a problem with an uneven surface because the hydraulics of the hoe can raise one side a little more than the other if needed on installation.
I do try to plan what I will be doing so I don't have to switch too often.
But I don't let the process or the thought of switching deter me from using the correct implement.
Good luck.

 

[txdon]

Rolando here is a link that shows the removal of my BH90.

 

[txdon]

Rolando, here are some pictures digging with the BH90. That hoe is quick! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[dlgmt]

I also have a BH90 on a L3130 and am glad I went this route. I feel an important aspect of the BH90 is that it is sub-frame mounted and distributes the stress of operating the BH throughout the tractor instead of just on the 3pt. (rear-axle). The BH90 is easily removed and it just requires a few minutes and some wrenches to reinstall the 3pt. lower links, lifting rods, and telescoping stabilizers.

 

[rswyan]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Rswyan, could you elaborate on the BH90 looking like a better mount? )</font>
Read txdon's thread on removing his BH90 and look at the attached pictures - the BH90 mount is much, much heavier than the 3PT mount on the 4690.