Backhoe TC40 and a backhoe?

[cvpuser]

I'm wondering if a TC40 is really enough tractor to power a backhoe. I want to dig out for an inground swimming pool. I'm sure to encounter some watermellon-sized rocks -- not any bigger. Any thoughts? Would I be better off renting a bobcat or a larger tractor/backhoe for the task?

Thanks

 

[jinman]

The TC40 might be able to handle this task, but you can get a lot of rental time for the price of a backhoe. With a full sized backhoe, you'll be able to excavate that pool in no time and also be able to handle anything you might run into. With buying a backhoe, it's an expensive "crap shoot" at best. If you need a backhoe on a regular basis, by all means buy one, but for this job only, I'd surely suggest renting a backhoe like the New Holland LB75. You'll be money ahead and when your job is done, you'll still have a smile on your face./w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif ...just my two cents.

 

[DVerbarg]

I agree with JimI on this. The TC40D is probably enough to do the job but you could do it alot faster with a full sized backhoe or small excavator for alot less money. Earlier this year rented a large mini-excavator (a Kubota KX-91 with 3 different quick-attach buckets) for doing a thousand ft of trench. Cost me $330 for rental, delivery and pickup. A backhoe for my TC40D would sure be nice but the occassional use that I have is better served by renting the appropriate piece of equipment specific to the job.

 

[Hightech]

My 45D handles it's bh very well. You can definitely get the job done quicker renting a larger one, but, this might be the time to convince the "boss" that a backhoe is "needed?!"
I've found that owning a bh is like owning a 4 wheeler; "you don't realize how much you would use it, until you have it."