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Crawlers, Dozers, Loaders & Backhoes Discussion Forum

Best Backhoes?

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George in Bilox

02-13-2006 11:19:39

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Hello all,
I was thinking I did not want to start a color war. However, a friendly one might be good. I am looking to buy an older backhoe. I usually have heavy stuff to move and work with (big pecan stumps), etc. I want a strong, well designed unit. I will be looking in the 10 to 14K price range. I used a Ford 555 when I was very young and do not remember much about it. I like the Case 580 Super L and of course Cat. I just used a JD 310G and although o.k. seemed a little week. I like 4 wheel drive too. (Many of the 4 wheel drive units seem to be around the 20-30K price range). What units are the best in this class (strong, "easy repairs", and any particular strong or weak points? I know this has been asked many times before. I have read the archives, however, nothing seems definitive where you can reason one is better than another. Does anyone have good reference material and knowledge? Hopefully my ramblings make sense.

Thanks in advance,
George

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Roy Suomi

02-13-2006 19:48:25

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:19:39

Congratulations... You just succeeded in starting another " color " war..... .I'm a Deere guy from long ago.. They made a real nice backhoe in the 310-A and 410 . My only problem with these models is the fact that the hydraulic systems are known to be somewhat problematic.. If I had my druthers , I would go for a nice tight 555-A or B , 655 A or B . They all made a good backhoe , personal preference I guess is what will dictate your purchase . I ran a new Case with pilot controls... Man was that nice....

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seann

02-13-2006 14:37:27

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:19:39

I think most agree that the Case 580 series are generally accepted as the standard of excellence (in the US). I've also heard Fords have very powerful hydraulics, almost too strong even (causing breakage). Heard mixed things about Deere's, but they're certainly very popular, most say they're good units.

I just bought a mid 80's full size JCB 2WD for $4k (runs great, needs a few nick nacks), and it's built like a tank. These don't command as much $$ as domestic models, folks seem to shy away from them somewhat because of unfamiliarity and probably because of perceived reliability problems (real or not). I haven't had it long enough to report an informed opinion yet, but it certainly appears to be mechanically put together very well and its hoe and loader are very powerful. The Perkins motor runs great and has a very good reputation. The only downside I've heard about is that JCB's frequently have electrical problems. Although that doesn't worry me much as I'm pretty good with electrical troubleshooting. Also, as long the starting and charging circuit works, I don't really care about lights, turn signals and such. And since it's a diesel no plugs or ignition to worry about. Overall the JCB seems like an ideal lower price choice for the non-pro/casual user like myself.

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Greg_Ky

02-13-2006 12:05:34

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:19:39

I could go take a couple of pictures and send them to you.

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Greg_Ky

02-13-2006 11:58:51

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:19:39

Sorry George typo should be 14,750lbs.

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Greg_Ky

02-13-2006 11:56:17

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:19:39

17,500lbs/ 15ft. digging depth/ 4cyl. diesel/ joy stick controls/ approx. 10,000hrs./ other than normal maintanance I have had no problems.

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George in Biloxi

02-13-2006 11:59:15

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to Greg_Ky, 02-13-2006 11:56:17

Any pics?

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Greg_Ky

02-13-2006 11:28:47

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:19:39

George,
I have a Ford 655A TLB 4X2 open station. $12K Plenty of power and no problems. I have owned this machine for 6 years on the farm. My $.02

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George in Biloxi

02-13-2006 11:37:30

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to Greg_Ky, 02-13-2006 11:28:47

I am not familiar with that model hardly at all. What are some of the specs? digging depth, bucket curl, dipper, boom strengths? What can it pick up by the hoe, by the front bucket. shuttle shift? joystick control or lever. Some pictures, any info appreciated. What was the last big maintenance or repair done on it? Engine hours, diesel / gas? What is the weight and where is it located?

george.bickel@brmc.hma-corp.com

Thanks,
George

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Johnbob

02-13-2006 19:17:58

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Re: Best Backhoes? in reply to George in Biloxi, 02-13-2006 11:37:30

I would buy the Case.I own a Deere.

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