Deere 260 / 2305

[stlbill]

Hello everyone:

After reading a lot of opinions, I ordered a 260 backhoe with 12" bucket for my 2305 this week. Also ordered ripper with trencher and bolt-on thumb from Richard at Bro-Tek. I am having the dealer install the 260. I expect to use it for the first time by June. There is no shortage of people who say this backhoe is too small or too slow, but I found a few happy owners. Many of the tasks on my list could be done with hand tools if I were younger and/or in better shape.


-Bill

 

[ovrszd]

That'll be fun to play, I mean work with. Update with pics when you start using it.

 

[stlbill]

Well, I have had the 260 backhoe for about two weeks and I am glad I ignored the naysayers. Could it have more power? Yes. Would more power just push the tractor around? Yes. You can only get a couple sizes larger before you tear up more landscaping than you fix and can't get through 50" gates. Furthermore, the backhoe goes on and off easier than any attachment I have. I can install the backhoe, load a JD 15 cart with dirt using the backhoe, remove the backhoe, tow the cart and reinstall the backhoe for another load. Certainly not as practical as having a dedicated tractor each for backhoe and towing, but it is realistic.

Will try to get some pictures soon...