Looking in to a backhoe...talk to me about subframes

Vanniek71 · Feb 25, 2021

Hey all,

I have an XR 4140 which already has some sort of a subframe on it. I am assuming there is more to a subframe for a backhoe that what is on the tractor, but I am no expert so wanted to gather some info.

I have been reading through the backhoe threads on here and seems consensus is that a subframe is optimal for a 3 pt backhoe (Specifically the Titan BK215) But I wasn't able to find anything specific for my tractor.

I am assuming I would need an adapter of some sort to mate it to the subframe on the XR 4140? Or if that subframe that comes on the tractor is not what I need, could someone steer me in the right direction of what I would need?

Avenger · Feb 25, 2021

I'd talk to your dealer about getting a sub-frame mount for an LS backhoe. Trying to mate another backhoe to an LS is doable, but complicated and will most likely require customizations or modifications to all parts.

What you already have is the loader frame: the rails that run to the rear axle from the loader brackets. Those will most likely be replace by or augmented with the sub-frame for a backhoe, depending on what you get.

There are typically two types of sub-frame mounts: ladder style and 4 link. LS has the ladder style, I believe. Which means the mount mostly stays with the BH when removed. 4 link the majority of the mount stays on the tractor, and, in my opinion, is easier to hook and unhook.

Unless you already have a backhoe, I'd get the LS one. If my memory is working correctly, I do remember someone on here who mounted a Titan BH to an LS using the LS sub-frame mount. But I dont recall models.

Vanniek71 · Feb 25, 2021

Avenger said:
I'd talk to your dealer about getting a sub-frame mount for an LS backhoe. Trying to mate another backhoe to an LS is doable, but complicated and will most likely require customizations or modifications to all parts.

A lot of what I can find and have read is that the Titan and the LS backhoes are virtually the same thing, different color and the LS price is much higher. I was just curious on the subframe, which sounds like I will need a different one.... but if the LS subframe would work with the Titan backhoe. I am assuming it will, maybe with some modifications, but wanted to gather as much info as I can before I decide what to do.

Appreciate the response and will keep this all in mind.

Avenger · Feb 25, 2021

Like an idiot, I bought a Woods backhoe without doing much research. I figured it was like any implement, and would hook right up to an LS sub-frame mount, which I didnt have. I bought the BH used for a song, which is one reason why I did it. Come to find out that the Woods BH's only mount with Woods Sub-frames, and they dont make one for LS tractors. But they make one for NH, which is close (same tractor, different loader). I had to modify the mount to work with my loader. Cost a few thousand, but it works. I now have a Woods BH on an LS, something that Woods said could not be done. Its a 4-link mount.

I made a video on it
LS XR4145C - Got a Backhoe Mounted! - YouTube

Vanniek71 · Feb 25, 2021

Avenger said:
Like an idiot, I bought a Woods backhoe without doing much research. I figured it was like any implement, and would hook right up to an LS sub-frame mount, which I didnt have. I bought the BH used for a song, which is one reason why I did it. Come to find out that the Woods BH's only mount with Woods Sub-frames, and they dont make one for LS tractors. But they make one for NH, which is close (same tractor, different loader). I had to modify the mount to work with my loader. Cost a few thousand, but it works. I now have a Woods BH on an LS, something that Woods said could not be done. Its a 4-link mount.

I made a video on it
LS XR4145C - Got a Backhoe Mounted! - YouTube

Most of your recent views are likely me lol! I found your thread earlier before I posted this and watch it and a few other videos. Nice work!

Bluesteel · Feb 25, 2021

Vanniek71 said:
Hey all,

I have an XR 4140 which already has some sort of a subframe on it. I am assuming there is more to a subframe for a backhoe that what is on the tractor, but I am no expert so wanted to gather some info.

I have been reading through the backhoe threads on here and seems consensus is that a subframe is optimal for a 3 pt backhoe (Specifically the Titan BK215) But I wasn't able to find anything specific for my tractor.

I am assuming I would need an adapter of some sort to mate it to the subframe on the XR 4140? Or if that subframe that comes on the tractor is not what I need, could someone steer me in the right direction of what I would need?

I would talk to your dealer and I would strongly recommend going with an LS hoe for your application. The subframe backhoes are much less stressful on a tractor compared to a 3pt. hoe. The LS subframe makes it very easy to take on and off. There are 2 brackets that bolt onto your tractor that will come with the hoe. One is toward the middle of the tractor where there is a cross member tube that is bolted between the factory lower frame coming off the rear end. These are the blue square tubes I think you are referencing. The factory cross member is removed and replaced with another cross member that excepts the front of the backhoe subframe. The other bracket is where the draw bar is pinned through. This factory bracket is removed and replaced with one that has a channel that excepts the end of the backhoe subframe where you drop in 2 pins that hold the subframe and backhoe in place.

Avenger's Woods backhoe looks like worked out great if you were inclined to go that route.

When I purchase my backhoe LS had a special on them for a length of time. Maybe see if they have anything coming up.

Vanniek71 · Feb 26, 2021

Bluesteel said:
I would talk to your dealer and I would strongly recommend going with an LS hoe for your application. The subframe backhoes are much less stressful on a tractor compared to a 3pt. hoe. The LS subframe makes it very easy to take on and off. There are 2 brackets that bolt onto your tractor that will come with the hoe. One is toward the middle of the tractor where there is a cross member tube that is bolted between the factory lower frame coming off the rear end. These are the blue square tubes I think you are referencing. The factory cross member is removed and replaced with another cross member that excepts the front of the backhoe subframe. The other bracket is where the draw bar is pinned through. This factory bracket is removed and replaced with one that has a channel that excepts the end of the backhoe subframe where you drop in 2 pins that hold the subframe and backhoe in place.

Avenger's Woods backhoe looks like worked out great if you were inclined to go that route.

When I purchase my backhoe LS had a special on them for a length of time. Maybe see if they have anything coming up.

Ill check it out and see if there are any deals coming up. I don't need this right now, just doing the research first. Appreciate the info!