Backhoe Which Backhoe for a B2710 with MMM

[Cuda]

I'm looking for some help in choosing between the Kubota BL-4690B, which doesn’t require a subframe, and the Woods 7500, which does. My questions are:
How does the 4690 get away with no subframe?
How difficult would it be for me to disassemble the MMM stuff to accommodate the Woods subframe each time I need to use the BH?
Has anyone ever broke their tractor using the 4690 BH (no subframe)?
Does anyone have any pictures of the subframe setup of the Woods BH?
Thanks in advance
Cuda

 

[hayden]

Unless Woods has changed their design in the past year, you don't want to use it with a MMM. There is a bracket that permanently mounts to the underside of the tractor that's not compatible with the MMM, and would have to be unbolted/bolted when switching between implements.

The "no subframe" for the 4690 is misleading. There are reinforcing bars that tie the rear axles to the loader frame to provide torsional support. These frame members were add-on's in earlier B models, but are equipped from the factory with the 2710 and 2910, so part of the "sub frame" is pre-assembled as part of the tractor. The other required element is what's called a reinforced 3PH top link bracket. It's a super duty bracket/anchor that replaces the two angle irons that make up the anchor on your tractor today. This add-on part is mandatory with the use of a BH, but it's alarming how few dealers pay attention to it and leave it off. Be sure you get it. It's only about $70.

I wouldn't heasitate for a second about the structural soundness of the Kubota hoe and tractor combination. They are designed to work together. I sure don't pamper mine (2910+4690) and am very happy with it. Also, when buying both parts from the same vendor you have what in my industry we refer to as "one neck to strangle" if there's a problem. You won't get that with a Kubot+woods combo.

 

[Rick Jay]

Hi,

I got a Woods 7500 with subframe when I bought my B2910, but I don't use it for mowing, so the bracket was not an issue. I felt the subframe mount was a bit of extra insurance for an unskilled operator like me. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

IF I were to use a mid-mount mower, I would've gotten the Kubota hoe without any concerns or regrets. I think if you're going to get a 3 pt. mount, you're a bit safer having the Kubota hoe due to the "one neck to strangle" theory. That would be my personal preference if I were buying a 3 pt. hoe.

As far as how much of a pain in the neck it would be to dismount/mount the backhoe bracket each time you wished to switch from mower to hoe, I don't think it would add much more than 10 minutes to the entire process, but you have to decide how often you'll be making the switch. I would think the 3 pt. mount would be much more convenient.

~Rick

 

[GAKubotaFan]

I have the B7800 and the 4690 backhoe. I also use the MMM. If you want to use the MMM go with the 4690. The brackets will get in the way with the Woods loader. As far a sub frame I would go with the 4690 backhoe. It is not just attached to the 3 point hitch as some are. Stronger bolts are used and the loader must be on to increase the strength of the frame. The 4690 also makes the tractor shorter making it easier to mover around. I didn't worry about Kubota’s engineering. If I thought that Kubota didn't know what they were going, I wouldn't buy their tractor, backhoe or not. Also if something does break, you don’t get into a part broke whose. If everything is Kubota then it is simple. Changing from backhoe to MMM be easy. It takes about 15-20 minutes to bet backhoe on and off. The key is getting the tractor lined up straight. Getting the MMM on and off is about 8 minutes. It is very easy.
Someone will probably chime in and tell you to get a sub frame and rear finish mower. That is your choice. I prefer the MMM. It’s a lot easier to cut with. You are not always looking behind you. It’s not like bushhoging. You’re not going to be in a field and with the finish mower you are usually going around objects and your house. I really like the MMM set up on the B7800. I would go with the 6' and not the 5'. It is a lot easier to put on.

 

[Cuda]

Thanks for the input, I really appreciate it.
Well, I called my dealer today to order the BL4690 /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif and he told me that I probably wouldn't receive it until sometime in August. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif Apparently they're are on backorder and none to be had at this time. So I’m wondering if there are any other dealers within a reasonable distance from me that might have one in stock.
Guess I’ll be makin some calls tomorrow.
Thanks again….