M59 QA Backhoe Bucket and Weldable Ears

rScotty · Apr 21, 2015

The first photo shows some details of the standard QA Backhoe Bucket attachment used on the US model M59s. Back in 2008 when we bought the tractor the QA was listed as an option, but I've never seen an M59 that didn't have it. I've heard some rumors that the Canadian QA is different, but haven't seen one of those either.

This kind of Quick Attach does work well. After 6 years of work in hard granite it is still tight with no slop. My guess is that is thanks to the large bushing area way out at the ends of the removeable locking pin. BTW, the spring clip shown is not sufficient. It MUST be replaced with something more positive. I use a double-nutted bolt on mine.

Over on the next mountain, friend Chris ordered some weldable hanging brackets to make a custom ripper tooth for his M59's backhoe. Very neat parts......I didn't even know that these kinds of things were available from Kubota, but here's the proof. He even sent a photo of the package they came it. Part # clearly visible.
rScotty

T

TBarD · Apr 21, 2015

The 2013 Kubota Wholegoods catalog lists this as: BT4581 Bucket Hangers list price $305 "Set of 2 bucket ear blanks. Converts buckets to quick coupler style." (But can also be used to weld up custom attachments).

MEA · Apr 22, 2015

This is exactly what I am looking for , just for a L45 with a BT4550 QA coupler. I am thinking the part I need might be BT4551?? I am so glad you posted this. Messicks replied they would have nothing like this listed. I just sent another note to them with a screen shot of those instructions.
Mike

TBarD · Apr 22, 2015

It looks like Messicks is right, there is nothing like this listed for the L45. Note though, these coupler ears are just cut from flat steel plate, if you have a plasma torch of sufficient capacity for your attachment, you might be able to make your own. They look like 3/4" or so for the M59, but 1/2" might suffice for a smaller attachment, and is manageable with a consumer plasma cutter. Also, I would check the dimensions, maybe the M59 ones would work?

MEA · Apr 22, 2015

TBarD, thank you for checking.

Crunchem · Apr 22, 2015

Hi,
Chris here. The plates are a bit more than just cut from flat plate. Particularly if you look at the last picture posted there is a metal half circle welded to the plate. In doing the test fittings for the ripper tooth I found these bits hold the bucket in place to allow for easy pin removal/insertion. My plan was to take these plates to a plasma or water jet place and get a few more made for future implements. After seeing the the additional items (half circles, hardened inserts, etc) and seeing how useful the half circles were I realized that $305 is not that bad when I figure my time to add those items to plasma cut plates. I'll try and post some ripper tooth pics.

Crunchem · Apr 22, 2015

Next time I have the ripper on I will take some pics. Here is what I started with.

MEA · Apr 23, 2015

Chris , I am interested in the diameter of the "C" on the top of the hangers and the diameter of the bottom pin hole. As well as the distance between the two center to center. I am hopeful this could be used on a L45. Thanks!