BX to dig a swimming pool?

[cwilliams2000]

Ok I am serious, I am interested in putting in a smaller swimming pool and after watching several videos I was surprised to see how many pools were put in with a bucket the size of the BX. Time is less of an issue so I realize it will take longer but my thought is that if i had a ramp to get out I could continue digging and moving the soil out to do this.

Just curious if anyone has tried this, I know it would be a big undertaking but I am think it may be possible.

Chris

 

[beenthere]

Sure it is possible. And as you mentioned, time is the main issue. Digging force/power just may enter in, depending on the soil type, whether clay/sand or rocks/boulders.
Not knowing that, tough to say it can't be done.
Just as well give it a shot, and no harm - no foul if you have to bring in the big gun (can rent them too).

 

[sweettractors]

I dug a basement with a Case 580C backhoe for my Sons 3000 + sq ft house. The ramp will work fine. Took a LOOOONG time. Ken Sweet

 

[bironacad]

Momma wants a pool as well so will be interested in your progress. There are threads here for making ponds the size of small lakes so I am sure someone will be sharing. I am at least two years from starting my pool project but have done some looking.

HowStuffWorks "Pool Drain Systems"
Build Your Own Pool | How I Built My Own Swimming Pool | How To Build Your Own Swimming Pool
Do-It-Yourself Swimming Pool Discussion of do's and don'ts
Pool and Hot Tub Owner's Guide - Town of Milton

I am interested in your sites that you think are good.:thumbsup:

Yours
Bill

 

[Trafficman]

Chris,
My sister & I have used my BX22 for small (>10000gal) fish ponds. Start at the middle with the BH & work your way out in a spiral. It'll take less time than the FEL unless you break it up alot first. Don't forget your foundations, plumbing or your HAT. DAMHIKT
T-Man. :thumbsup:

 

[Tom_H]

It is likely possible depending upon time and soil conditions. Sizeable boulders or layers of sedimentary rock will not yield to the BX like they will bigger tractors and any of the true hardpans (Ironpan, Duripan, Caliche) are very difficult digging for the BX. In more normal soils, you can get there; just don't expect to do it as quickly as a Bobcat skid steer with a loader on front and rippers on back. Expect clay to take longer than sandy loam.

 

[SSdoxie]

I have several customer's that use a skidsteer to dig a pool, no reason you can't use a BX. If you have the BH on it to loosen up most of the ground before scoopin it out will help. These skidsteer operators use the loader and have the ramp at the shallow end of the pool, then when done use a Backhoe or small excavator to did up the ramp.

 

[MoreCowbell]

I'm actually partially through doing a similar thing with my BX2350. I am cutting into an incline in order to build a semi-inground pool.

I am in central NC where there is very thick clay. I found that breaking the soil up with a subsoiler first makes scooping it up with the FEL MUCH easier. I use a Markham toothbar on the FEL which also helps a good deal.

 

[woodchuckie]

I was able to use my FEL to dig the deep end in my above ground pool. In my type of pool there is a steep slope going into the deep end that I was able to get in and out with.

 

[ShenandoahJoe]

I bought my tractor from a guy whose wife wanted a swimming pool. He told her his little 16-hp Kubota wasn't up to the task, so he got to buy a bigger one, and I got a great deal on Kubo-chan. When I saw his place, he had a giant hole dug, and a system of ramps that would have made a Pharaoh jealous.