Sub-Compact Implement Question

brentagade · Aug 12, 2018

Greetings,

New to the forums and in the market for a sub-compact. I have a question about swapping rear implements. I was under the impression that going from backhoe to a 3-point implement was a fairly "easy" swap. Is this really the case or is it a much more involved swap? The backhoe, while a nice add-on is a little further down the chain that others. I also thought there wasn't much difference between the 2380 and 23S but I guess there is. So would it be more of an issue to get the 2380 and then add the backhoe later, or spring for the 23S? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

jeff9366 · Aug 12, 2018

The Kubota 23S is the only subcompact tractor with Backhoe INTEGRATED into the tractor design.

A Backhoe can be added to most tractors as an option but you will be happier with an integrated Backhoe.

VIDEOS: *NEW* Kubota BX23s BT6�3 Backhoe removal - YouTube

The ONLY BX that gets a backhoe - WHY IS IT ONLY 23 HORSEPOWER? - TMT - YouTube

How to Operate a Kubota BT62 Backhoe & Product Overview | Messick's - YouTube

Your post would be clearer correctly split into two paragraphs.

Tractor Dell · Aug 12, 2018

brentagade said:
Greetings,

New to the forums and in the market for a sub-compact. I have a question about swapping rear implements. I was under the impression that going from backhoe to a 3-point implement was a fairly "easy" swap. Is this really the case or is it a much more involved swap? The backhoe, while a nice add-on is a little further down the chain that others. I also thought there wasn't much difference between the 2380 and 23S but I guess there is. So would it be more of an issue to get the 2380 and then add the backhoe later, or spring for the 23S? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

There are many videos out there how to remove the backhoe. YouTube Messick's channel is my favorite when it comes to tractor information about my BX23S. However, if you get a BXpanded backhoe dolly, it is even easier.

As Jeff linked to, only BX23S can have a backhoe. If you want to add one later, you have to look at aftermarket (not my choice), or move up to the B series.

BXpanded Backhoe Dolly

Grandad4 · Aug 12, 2018

If you think you'll use a backhoe, it's better to get a new BX with the backhoe to begin with. The tractor is modified and reinforced to handle the backhoe, the BH is purpose built to fit the BX, and there is a bit of money savings vs. buying one to add later (at least there used to be... don't know about current models). One of my regrets is that I didn't appreciate that when I bought my BX years ago and I have regretted not having it many times since. The BX is a great little setup but there are some jobs where the backhoe makes all the difference.

GirlWhoWantsTractor · Aug 12, 2018

jeff9366 said:
The Kubota 23S is the only subcompact tractor with Backhoe INTEGRATED into the tractor design.

What does that mean???

IchabodCrayne · Aug 12, 2018

As the topic of this thread is Kubota based I assume it means bx23s is the only "Kubota" sub compact with integrated backhoe.

jeff9366 · Aug 12, 2018

IchabodCrayne said:
As the topic of this thread is Kubota based I assume it means bx23s is the only "Kubota" sub compact with integrated backhoe.

The Kubota B26 is a slightly heavier, 26-horsepower, INTEGRATED tractor-loader-backhoe.

The OP stipulated cost as a primary consideration.

VIDEO: Comparing Kubota TLB series tractors(B26, L47, M62) - YouTube

/pine · Aug 12, 2018

I was under the impression that going from backhoe to a 3-point implement was a fairly "easy" swap. Is this really the case or is it a much more involved swap?

In many cases the 3PH lift arms and links etc. have to be removed/replaced to install a backhoe and attach a typical 3PH implement...

jeff9366 · Aug 12, 2018

GirlWhoWantsTractor said:
INTEGRATED ~~ What does that mean???

View the Messik's videos in Post #2. Neal Messick is a professional, I an amateur.
It would take me three days to type the T-L-B information Neal Messick conveys. :dance1:

shooterdon · Aug 13, 2018

Beware of stuff that is nice to have.

My neighbor gave me great advice when I considered getting a BH. “You are better off hiring out the amount of BH work you will ever do”. That was 5 years ago. I have spent about $400 with a local contractor doing the BH work I have needed. YMMV....but think about where you will use it and how often.

Buying a larger tractor may be more rewarding than adding a BH that gets little use.