Which TLB is best

[LBA1999]

Hi everyone, I'm new here and have a few questions regarding TLB's. I currently have a JD 3203 which I am less than satisfied with. It has no power and low lift capacity with the FEL. I am looking to upgrade in the next year to a new or lightly used TLB. Here's what I am looking for:

1. at least 40 engine hp
2. at least 2000# FEL lift capacity
3. thumb on backhoe or grapple bucket
4. removable backhoe and ability to have a 3 point hitch and PTO
5. SSL quick coupler on FEL

I have researched various models and am currently looking at the John Deere v110, Kubota L39 or L45, and JCB midi CX. Please let me know if you have any experience wit hany of these of these or know of any other machines I should consider. I am currently leaning to JCB because I know a contractor who puts 10000+ hours on full size JCBs with no problems. Thanks.

[tnmtn]

the machine i like other than the JCB name is their 2cx utility or 12. these have much more power and lift and the 4 wheel steering is great. i run a similar machine in the bobcat B300. the downside to a used bobcat is you can't run 3 point attachments. the jcb is very similar to what the bobcats could have bee if they had kept producing them. you might also check the kubota M59. these seem to be nice machines as well. my only gripes with them are the exhaust comes out underneath the operator and you have to get out of the seat to change to backhoe ops. not knowing what line of work you are in these could be overkill.

[LBA1999]

I'm in property management. The machine will mainly be used for tree and brush removal and digging up utility lines in business complexes and mobile home parks.

[Ducati996]

Well I would say for what your looking for Kubota offers a complete full line of it _ each model offering more than the other...L39, L45, M59 fill that requirement with ease and price point...

[alanauer]

LBA, you mention a backhoe casually, but it's a major decision as an add-on. As for a FEL grapple, generally you get the rig with the loader and you add the grapple. But this add-on needs power, so it's an easier and cheaper connection if the tractor already has remote or auxiliary hydraulic connections. Also, grapple-use often needs a full bucket dump, and buckets are not all equally flexible, so check that in advance.

[LBA1999]

LBA, you mention a backhoe casually, but it's a major decision as an add-on. As for a FEL grapple, generally you get the rig with the loader and you add the grapple. But this add-on needs power, so it's an easier and cheaper connection if the tractor already has remote or auxiliary hydraulic connections. Also, grapple-use often needs a full bucket dump, and buckets are not all equally flexible, so check that in advance.

Thanks ananauer. I mention the BH casually because I am looking at integrated units like JD110 and Kubota L45 that all have backhoes on them. They aren't 3 point , but rather u spin around the seat and dig w/o getting off machine like s big backhoe. I will look into having a full bucket dump, thanks for bringing into my attention. I am leaning more towards grapple as front aux. hydraulics are easier to find used it seems .

[riverwalklandscaping]

do u need to run 1 machine? In my experience 1 used skid and one used excavator work a hell of a lot better than 1 new TLB. I don't know, I just hate digging with backhoes having to get up and move the machine every 30 seconds and being restricted to where u are parked in terms of carrying anything with your thumb

[LBA1999]

has to be a TLB. I already own 3 point implements that I need to be able to use. This machine will be used a lot without the BH. Looking at these types of machines because the backhoes have more power than a standard 3 point BH.
this machine is a multipurpose machine. It may be digging trenches one day and brush hogging the next. I like the 3 point hitch versus skid attachments because they are cheaper to purchase if I need more attachments. I do understand though that a thumb on a BH isn't as useful as a thumb on an ex. I am mainly concerned with doing work in house instead of subbing it so I can sacrifice some speed for versitility.

[alanauer]

Then may I also suggest that in comparing them you check the ease to detach from and reattach to the B. And conversely how easy it is to use the L with the B attached (with some, the B tucks away so you wouldn't know it's there, with others it sticks way up and back).

[manatarms]

has to be a TLB. I already own 3 point implements that I need to be able to use. This machine will be used a lot without the BH. Looking at these types of machines because the backhoes have more power than a standard 3 point BH.
this machine is a multipurpose machine. It may be digging trenches one day and brush hogging the next. I like the 3 point hitch versus skid attachments because they are cheaper to purchase if I need more attachments. I do understand though that a thumb on a BH isn't as useful as a thumb on an ex. I am mainly concerned with doing work in house instead of subbing it so I can sacrifice some speed for versitility.

LBA,

I have a Kubota M59. Very similar, but the bigger brother to the L45 you mentioned. The BH is powerful, easy and quick to remove for using the 3PH. The first time it will take you a little fussing, but once you get the hang of it you can take it off without leaving the machine. I find it to be extremely versitile. As many have stated before, a TLB will not out-do a mini-ex/skidsteer combo, but as a stand alone machine with 3PH it can't be beat. The hydro thumb option is fantastic. The 110 and L45 are both great machines, however I like the backhoe seat transition on the Kubotas better than the 110 (spin instead of flip). Both have creep to reposition, which is a great feature for frequent backhoe use. I recommend getting aux. front hydraulics so you can run front hydro attachements (grapple, snow blower, etc.). You might also consider the Yanmar CBL40 (JD110 twin). One other point to watch is the weight. Depending upon your state you might need a CDL to move around one of these.

I use my TLB all the time for moving rocks/logs, clearing out small-medium trees (push them over and/or dig out stumps), run a harley rake or flail mower, etc.

Here's a reference chart detailing some of the machines you mentioned. I made it for another site I frequent when someone was hunting for the same TLBs you're looking at. Some fiqures are missing, but you can see the 45 and 110 are real close.
http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/untitled-1.jpg

http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/photo.jpg

http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/f1d7a2af.jpg

http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/62de196f.jpg

[LBA1999]

LBA,

I have a Kubota M59. Very similar, but the bigger brother to the L45 you mentioned. The BH is powerful, easy and quick to remove for using the 3PH. The first time it will take you a little fussing, but once you get the hang of it you can take it off without leaving the machine. I find it to be extremely versitile. As many have stated before, a TLB will not out-do a mini-ex/skidsteer combo, but as a stand alone machine with 3PH it can't be beat. The hydro thumb option is fantastic. The 110 and L45 are both great machines, however I like the backhoe seat transition on the Kubotas better than the 110 (spin instead of flip). Both have creep to reposition, which is a great feature for frequent backhoe use. I recommend getting aux. front hydraulics so you can run front hydro attachements (grapple, snow blower, etc.). You might also consider the Yanmar CBL40 (JD110 twin). One other point to watch is the weight. Depending upon your state you might need a CDL to move around one of these.

I use my TLB all the time for moving rocks/logs, clearing out small-medium trees (push them over and/or dig out stumps), run a harley rake or flail mower, etc.

Here's a reference chart detailing some of the machines you mentioned. I made it for another site I frequent when someone was hunting for the same TLBs you're looking at. Some fiqures are missing, but you can see the 45 and 110 are real close.
http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/untitled-1.jpg

http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/photo.jpg

http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/f1d7a2af.jpg

http://i540.photobucket.com/albums/gg350/ManAtArms/62de196f.jpg

wow thats a lot of info. thats a huge log u are lifting like nothing. the seat transition is something I was thinking about. spin would def be better than flip. I am also looking at a JCB midi because a friend who is a sitework contractor suggested JCB because he has many of their larger BH and puts 10,000+ hours on them with no issues. I was wondering, when u take the BH off do you have to install the 3 point arms each time and if so how long does it take for u to transition from having the BH on to having a 3 point attachment say a box blade on? thanks

[Ducati996]

Wow Nice pictures from Manatarms! M59 all the way, trade in that anemic 3203 for a full TLB with all the bells and whistles....I have its smaller brother the L39 (L45 wasnt out when I bought).....the rotating seat is slick and comfortable, backhoe comes off real easy, and once off the 3 pt arms are easy reach.....the L45 is less money that the 110, and I feel is a nicer machine ( I like Deere too guys)....The M59 is the top do in this group, should be looked at seriously for your applications....

[LBA1999]

I'm going to run them all with no bias only looking at which machine performs best. I hear what u say Ducati, the spin seat I probably will like better so at this point looking hard at L45 or M59. Still considering JCB machine and was doing research and saw yanmar makes a machine as well so going to run it too. I used to have bias to JD after 15 years and 4 JD tractors that performed flawlessly but very disgusted with JD after having the 3203 don't care what brand anymore as long as good quality and good dealer service which is the only reason I've stayed JD so long because their dealer is awesome and I have a 15 year relationship. Would u guys recommend kubota gst or hydro have heard mixed reviews about hydro rocker pedal but never run one. Have run a gst and it was pretty good for a gear tractor but still a little nervous how it does with loader work. thanks a lot guys

[manatarms]

wow thats a lot of info. thats a huge log u are lifting like nothing. the seat transition is something I was thinking about. spin would def be better than flip. I am also looking at a JCB midi because a friend who is a sitework contractor suggested JCB because he has many of their larger BH and puts 10,000+ hours on them with no issues. I was wondering, when u take the BH off do you have to install the 3 point arms each time and if so how long does it take for u to transition from having the BH on to having a 3 point attachment say a box blade on? thanks

LBA1999,

Sorry for the late reply...I wouldn't say the log lifted like nothing, you definately know it when a big one is hanging off the front end! You can take the backhoe off in 5 minutes, once you get the hang of it. The 3 pt. arms have to be installed each time, and they're easy to put on, but it's not quite as fast as doing the backhoe. I would say 10 minutes to slap them on. Reinstalling the backhoe is a bit more tedious than removal...only because you have to line up the pins properly, which can take some finesse if you're not on level ground. Something like a box blade goes on pretty quick. I would say overall mounting from backhoe on to box blade on would take 15 minutes. Going back would take 20. The first time you do it...it's gonna take WAY longer!

-Mark

[LBA1999]

Just want to give everyone an update. Drove a Yanmar CLB40 today. It had very smooth hydraulics and a very nice self leveling system on the loader. It was also very small and looked like it would fit into very tight spaces, especially since it has very tight steering. The hoe was very responsive and you could use al 4 functions at once with no issues at low rpm. it had twin touch pedals like my deere.
The bad:
The pedals were not responsive and the thing always jerked to a stop no matter how easily u let off the pedal. u couldn't lift the loader and roll the bucket forward at once, probably not necessary since it is self leveling but means the hydraulic pump is small. U had to hold your foot in a wierd way to use the pedals because of how they are mounted and it had no legroom in the driving position. it was not comfortable even after 5 mins. it only has 5.3 gpm aux flow which means u can't run much of anything except a 4 in 1 or grapple.

I think I have ruled it not mainly because of the pedals and aux flow. I will say it was a very well built machine meant to be a tlb from the ground up not a modified compact tractor. Any thoughts guys?

[LBA1999]

Got to run an M59 today. It had LOTS of power and I really liked the foot control for the thumb. It is going to be simply too big for my needs, but I will certainly look hard at the L45. I liked everything about except I thought I didn't have a really tight turning radius and the rocker pedal certainly felt strange after being used to the deere pedals but I would get used to it. Overall, I was very impressed.

[Ducati996]

Got to run an M59 today. It had LOTS of power and I really liked the foot control for the thumb. It is going to be simply too big for my needs, but I will certainly look hard at the L45. I liked everything about except I thought I didn't have a really tight turning radius and the rocker pedal certainly felt strange after being used to the deere pedals but I would get used to it. Overall, I was very impressed.

You always grow into a tractor, no such thing as too big for your needs....if you feel an L45 is perfect for your needs, then really a M59 will be better...
not blowing smoke up your arse here, just how it usually works....I know first hand, so make the choice once out of gate.....lots of 2008 models that need to be sold as well, makes it affordable to a degree (or more than you would think)

[LBA1999]

You always grow into a tractor, no such thing as too big for your needs....if you feel an L45 is perfect for your needs, then really a M59 will be better...
not blowing smoke up your arse here, just how it usually works....I know first hand, so make the choice once out of gate.....lots of 2008 models that need to be sold as well, makes it affordable to a degree (or more than you would think)
I definitely hear what u are saying I have learned the hard way u can never have a large enough tractor I just need to go places I don't think an M59 will fit. I am definitely looking hard at the L45 at this point. I also want to fit it into my dump trailer with BH if it will fit but definitely want it to fit w/o BH. It is a little over 6' wide so an M59 won't fit width wise. I was reading about the leveling valve and was wondering how u like it? is it useful or not efficient enough?
Thank you and Merry Christmas to you and everyone else here!

[meador56]

do u need to run 1 machine? In my experience 1 used skid and one used excavator work a hell of a lot better than 1 new TLB. I don't know, I just hate digging with backhoes having to get up and move the machine every 30 seconds and being restricted to where u are parked in terms of carrying anything with your thumb

I agree with riverwalk we ran a 3203 for 3 yrs good unit but small. We replaced it with a 4105 and mt55 we then sold case 580 tlb that I had owned for years. We currently rent 3 different size mini-ex's each one has its pros and cons. 10000# class is awesome but not compact little ditch witch unit we rent is handy for tight places but has limitations, 5-6000# go both ways pretty well but can't replace either. But rarely would a tlb be a logical fit for us.

[tnmtn]

i am going through a similar decision process. the question isn't if the skid steer/ mini ex combo is more efficient but is it cost effective for the work needing to be done. for example. a good full sized tlb w/ 2500 hours can be bought for $35,000, this is with cab a/c and heat and probably an e-hoe. maintenance on this machine will be less in my opinion than a mini/ss combo. so using the $35,000 price limit to go looking for a used skid steer mini ex combo with the same digging power and amenities you will have to look long and hard to stay under this price point. additionally when the combo is found how many hours will the machines have on them and will they be needing maintenace expenses out of the gate. if you go the ctl route undercarriage issues and expenses can be high. the same analogy can be used for smaller tlb's. when i started i was able to find a bobcat B300 with boxblade, grapple, forks and trailer for $21,000. this machine had 450 hours on it. i don't believe you can find a mini ex with the same digging power and a skid steer with similar lifting power to make a package to match with the same low hours. as a single owner operator this machine has worked out very well for me. there have been a couple jobs where i have needed to rent a mini or a skid but they are very rare. tlb's are very capable digging machines and the positioning issues become less of an issue with time on them. add to this that 3 point attachments are generally less expnensive than skid steer attachments and i think a good arguement can be in favor of the smaller tlb in some cases. everyone has a diffrent business plan and i don't believe there are many blanket answers that one is always the best way to go. i am enjoying this thread and impressed with the M59 pics. and agree that you should go as big as your work can handle.
good luck,

[meador56]

We have looked at several mini ex's and have found $12-15k well spent to be more than adequate, the problem for us is still what size. We thought about combining the 4105 into a 110 JD tlb but the increase in length is unacceptable. We look at mantenance problems as an opportunity to purchase well. When we bought our Gehl 6635 it had a flutter that turned out as I thought to be a failing lift pump that cost $50 and took maybe 20 minutes to install. This machine has the extra counter weight and handles 3-4000# pallets with ease. We paid 11,5 for this unit with new pallet forks, it had 1600 hrs on it and new tires.