BX1880 yay or nay?

[eubie5]

Ok, been looking for a new subcompact for 6+ months. Checked out the bx2380, mf1705, and the rk24, all fit with a 3rd function. Also looked at the branson 2510, but that's probably bigger than i need, but ****, the branson is a heavy built tractor. I want to run a small grapple when not using the fel. I currently have a 2002 bx1800, and it's a little tank. It does not have a loader, which i kick myself in the *** for not getting one. The 1800 has done everything I've ever asked of it. It will lose traction before it loses power. When i add weights to the front, it's like an entirely different tractor when I'm grading my gravel drive. It would do even better if i wasn't running turf tires.
My question is, would i be ok looking at dropping down to the new BX1880? It only weighs about 100lbs less than the 2380. The frame is the same, the hydraulic output is the same.
It actually has the same fel as the 2380 and 2680. All the fel specs are the same.
Just wondering if I'd be happy with the new 1880 with fel?
Anyone else have one? Are you happy with it's ability? I live on about 2.5 acres and mow the entire thing. I have a gravel drive that's about 375 feet long. It has a big hill on it, and I've never been able to grade it perfectly. I do a decent job, but i start losing traction going up hill. That's why i was looking at jumping up in size. But everything I've ever read, you really don't see a jump in tractor ability unless you jump up at least 50% in weight. The tractors I've been looking at do not meet that 50% criteria.
So, whatever i get, with a fel, and r4 tires i think I'd see a much better end result than what I'm currently using.
Ok, I'll quit rambling.
Let's hear from you guy's who bought a BX1880, or a rk19, or the branson 19hp.
Are you happy going so small, or do you regret it, and wish you'd gone bigger?
Thanks

 

[jeff9366]

The 1800 has done everything I've asked of it.

It will lose traction before it loses power.

I have a gravel drive that's about 375 feet long. It has a big hill on it, and I've never been able to grade it perfectly. I do a decent job, but i lose traction going up hill. That's why i was looking at jumping up in size. But everything I've ever read, you really don't see a jump in tractor ability unless you jump up 50% in weight. The tractors I've been looking at do not meet that 50% criteria.

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Why not keep your current BX1800 and add implements for the new/additonal tasks you want to accomplish? What are those new/additional tasks? Dealer can order you R1/ag wheels and tires for your current tractor. I doubt you will mark your turf with R1/ag tires on a light BX. Consider adding Kubota cast iron wheel weights to your rear wheels. Have you considered rear tire chains for when you wish to grade?

How many engine hours on your BX1800? It should go 8,000 engine hours with only minor work, if well maintained.

What implement are you using for grading the hill? Possibly we can suggest something better.

What is your objection to a B2650? Money? Storage space? If you yearn for a new tractor, BUY ENOUGH the second time.
(I wasted money on #2 tractor, which was too light, before buying 3,700 pound L3560, my third tractor.)


Please add your LOCATION to your T-B-N PROFILE. Your location would tell us more about your soil, weather and topography.

 

[Jchonline]

I would not get another BX. I would either do as Jeff says and improve your ballast or get a larger B size machine. This can be in other brands if you wish, just be sure you have good dealer support.

The only downsize is new rear implements. If you move up in size you may need to get heavier/wider implements. I dont recall the rear width difference between the BX and B so just be sure to check.

 

[Ortimber]

I had a BX2370 for a while and soon found out it was too small for anything but mowing. I would only recommend a BX sized machine for performing the very lightest of tractor duties on small, flat, smooth acreage.

This is just my experience, and I know plenty of BX owners are very happy with their machines.

 

[eubie5]

I use a 4ft boxblade on my driveway. Like i said on the hill, works great coming down the hill. But, over time, all the gravel runs downhill.
Also, i don't have a front end loader, which I'm now really wanting.

 

[jeff9366]

eubie

I use a 4ft boxblade on my driveway. Like i said on the hill, works great coming down the hill. But, over time, all the gravel runs downhill.

If your traction is improved with CHAINS, R1/AG TIRES, OR CAST IRON WHEEL weights, so your BX1800 maintains traction, will the Box Blade be satisfactory?



i don't have a front end loader, which I'm now really wanting.

FEL for what applications?

 

[eubie5]

eubie

I use a 4ft boxblade on my driveway. Like i said on the hill, works great coming down the hill. But, over time, all the gravel runs downhill.

If your traction is improved with CHAINS, R1/AG TIRES, OR CAST IRON WHEEL weights, so your BX1800 maintains traction, will the Box Blade be satisfactory?



i don't have a front end loader, which I'm now really wanting.

FEL for what applications?

The boxblade worked much better when i added about 210lbs of weight to the front(3 70lb plates). I've never run anything other than turf, so i can't answer that.
The fel, well, i just want one.
My property is surrounded on 3 sides by woods, and there's 20+ years of tree's and limbs that with a small grapple or a set of forks i would be able to clean up a little easier than wrapping a chain around them and dragging where i need them which is what i do now. Was also looking at adding a PTB to the bucket to help remove some scrub thickets once i get rid of all that dead wood.

 

[dalola]

Have you gone so far as to explore your expenses, meaning, trade in value of your current machine & final cost of your preferred new choice? That might help you make a decision!

Seems like your current 1800 is basically working for you, perhaps adding the extra implements & a tire change might be a good choice?

The new rigs are nice, no question. But the budget will need addressed. Try to decide logically what you really NEED, vs what you might want. Then plan a path forward from there.

 

[eubie5]

Can a loader be added straight to the old bx1800's, or do you have to modify the frame, and then add one?

 

[Jchonline]

LA211 is the loader for that model. You can either call your dealer or call Messicks and ask them if the tractor mounts can be added. It looks like Messicks has the parts for the loader.