Backhoe Deere 46 backhoe

[deere_x475guy]

Hi gang, I have been looking at the Deere 46 backhoe and the woods model that fits my 4110. I am wondering if anyone here has experience with both models to help me compare. I see that Deere is rated a little higher in capacity and the sales guy claims the hydraulics are alot smooter than competitors....of course he would say that....wouldn't he????LOL

Anyway I have a lot of drainage I need to correct and several small ponds along with waterfalls I will be building. I will make my own mechanical thumb to aid in picking up and placing some of the stone that will be used in the construction.

Any feedback is appreciated.....Later

Bob

 

[gunmaker]

My 2520 with the 46 backhoe was delivered last week, and I must admit that I am more than pleased with the performance of both the tractor and the 46bh.
I have used a kubota 2250 with the Woods 3pt backhoe extensively in the past, and found it to be competent and able. I've no complaints, it served me well. My only gripe was the sometimes frustrating process of mounting/unmounting the 3pt set-up, sometimes it only takes minutes, other times it has taken hours...frustrating.
My first impression of the 46bh was one of surprise. I expected performance to be similar to the 3pt Woods, but found that I was impressed by the performance of the JD product. I feel that the hoe maneuvers more rapidly, the controls more precise and controllable, and that I have more fine control of the hoe. It is my impression that the 46bh has more capability than the Woods, and it's operation seems smoother to me.
Removal and re-installation of the 46bh is a pleasure, especially with my previous experiences.

 

[deere_x475guy]

That sure is a sweet looking setup you have gunmaker and thanks for the feedback. The dealer said it would take 2 to three weeks to get it in and then I am sure another week to work in into the schedule to mount it. Do you mind if I ask what size bucket you have with it and what type of soil you have dug with it so far. Mine ranges anywhere from sand/gravel with some bolders to heavy clay. I figured I would get the 9" and 13". The 9 I would use for shallow trenching and digging in the tuff stuff.

Bob

 

[gunmaker]

I have generally rocky soil, with some small boulders and heavy clay. I choose the 13" bucket from previous experience, and found it to be perfect for my needs. I may also pickup the 9" bucket in the future for trenching.
Sounds like you're pretty well squared away.
It took only 2 weeks for the tractor to make it to the dealer, but 5 weeks for the 46bh. Set-up only took 1 day.

 

[jdbower]

Now you've got me all excited, my 46 should be here any day now. At a high level, what's the process for removing and installing the backhoe? I've thusfar been impressed with how quickly I could pick up the other JD components (the FEL is on and off in just a few minutes now).

I'm very familiar with the NW NJ soil type - I grew up in Long Valley. Compared to that soil the stuff I've got now should be nothing!

 

[gunmaker]

Better with practice, but 10-15 mins safely.
1-Center the boom, extend the dipperstick, and lower the boom so the bucket top edge is parallel to ground.
2-Pull 2 front pins from hangers.
3-Lower boom and stabilizers evenly, to lower the front bh frame to the ground and take weight off draft link pins.
4- Drive ahead 6-8" til subframe hooks clear draft links, lower main bh frame to ground.
5-Disconnect Power Beyond hose from bh, and re-connect to tractor.
6-Go get new toy!

Grew up in Andover...getting awfully crowded around here these days! Used to be more cows up here than people.

 

[Dutch445]

There's just something to be said about "matched" equipment.

That hoe is a very nice hoe. If you were to look into the
specs, I think you will find it even out digs the old number 7
hoe on paper.

 

[Tombo]

I have a 4110 with a 410 loader & 46 hoe. It is very impressive and easilly digs out rocks and small stumps. It will throw you around a little however. It takes a little getting used to and is much different than the big TLBs i drove inthe military.

 

[Cliff_Johns]

I have the 4110/46 combination as well. Very nice ballance between tractor and Backhoe, a fine setup. I think you will find the 13" bucket effective for most situations. I dig in hard clay, no rocks, just stumps and roots.

Cliff

 

[deere_x475guy]

Thanks everyone for taking the time to reply. I do have another question though. When you drop the 46 BH does the subframe come off also. If not how much ground clearance is lost?

TIA
Bob