B26 vs LX26

[big_matt]

Just found this forum. I have 2 acres of mostly lawn that needs major improvement (lawn chem company killed 40% using something a little too harsh for centipede grass, wish me luck getting them to do anything). I have an easily strained back so looking for help in 'lifting' things. I have a 2000 sq ft shop and looking to add a stone border around the 180 ft perimeter. I have some 'gardens' with either landscape block or large, milk crate sized stones as borders to either be removed or reconfigured. Mowing isn't an issue as I have a zero turn and a push mower for any tight spots.
I am in the upstate of South Carolina on relatively flat land south of Greenville. Hard ground usually but being mostly clay ruts up easily in the wet, and the ruts set like concrete when they dry.
Spoke to one of the few dealers in the area and his suggestion was the LX2620, possibly because he had one, not sure if they had the B. He did have a couple of BX2380?? that he suggested would be adequate.
Other brands besides JD don't really seem to be an option around here unless I go the big box, brand of the day, generic route.

So, any ideas, suggestions or experiences to share?

 

[Bee-Positive]

Check out this video on youtube

 

[Bearcatrp]

Depends how much lift you need. The BX line maxes out around 650 lbs. The B I think top out around 950 lbs. you can go on Kubota web site and compare tractor specs. My BX 1880 does my lifting my old ass can’t. Bad back too. But, sometimes I have to split the load so it takes 2 trips. Figure out what you think will be the heaviest you will need to lift, then add about 300 lbs. then find the right size tractor. I love my Kubota. It may be small but saves my back (fused discs). I don’t mind multiple loads. Some days I wish I bought a little bigger tractor (everyone goes through this) but my wallet is glad I didn’t. Good luck on your decision.

 

[Elliott in GA]

Since you said that you do need need a tractor to mow, I would suggest the LX26 SU (special utility). It comes with the larger tires (more ground clearance and less PSI on the contact patch (better at not sinking in on soft soil - you can get the larger tires on a regular LX, but they may interfere with a mower deck)). It will save you money (versus a regular LX), but you will lose: mid-PTO (no mower deck or snow blower), cruise control (can add it), tilt wheel and the nice seat (can add it).

I have an LX26 SU, and it has been what I needed for more than 5 years. I have not been stuck, and our land is about 2 hours from you in Georgia (lots of clay). I even dug about 10 tons of gravel and sand out of a creek bed (the hole was filling with water) without any problems. FWIW, I have industrial tires (R4s) for loader work and toughness in the woods.

You will probably be good with any of your possible choices.

 

[Lowlysubaruguy]

Are you looking at an actual B26 or a 26 series someone correct me if im wrong but the B26 is a more commercial built tractor with a few less cosmetic things? If you looking at the B26 series tractors my response is not going to be the same.

I rented a B26 with a backhoe for a month and treated it like I stole it. I have been looking for one even. And I wanted more HP I thought. But theres not many low hours ones being sold used and theres very few new ones out there.

Every person I know regardless of HP that uses the rear PTO a lot all wish they had more HP at least under 60HP even 70HP. Seems like John Deere owners in particular wish for more. So regardless of what you think about managing that 2 acres you may find you wish you had double the PTO HP. It’s really a matter of time if you have time to tinker in your field youll be fine. I think the B26 has a lot of bucket power it digs and lifts at a level i was surprised.

 

[BAP]

Do you need a backhoe? The B26 is basically a small, commercial spec backhoe. The LX2620 is a tractor spec machine. It can take an optional backhoe, but is more geared towards 3pt hitch and loader work.

 

[big_matt]

Are you looking at an actual B26 or a 26 series someone correct me if im wrong but the B26 is a more commercial built tractor with a few less cosmetic things? If you looking at the B26 series tractors my response is not going to be the same.

I rented a B26 with a backhoe for a month and treated it like I stole it. I have been looking for one even. And I wanted more HP I thought. But theres not many low hours ones being sold used and theres very few new ones out there.

Every person I know regardless of HP that uses the rear PTO a lot all wish they had more HP at least under 60HP even 70HP. Seems like John Deere owners in particular wish for more. So regardless of what you think about managing that 2 acres you may find you wish you had double the PTO HP. It’s really a matter of time if you have time to tinker in your field youll be fine. I think the B26 has a lot of bucket power it digs and lifts at a level i was surprised.

Sorry I wasn't clear. Comparing the LX2620 to the B2601.

 

[skeets]

OK Big Mat if you are a big guy forget the B2601. Not that it is not a capable tractor but Im a big guy and trust me it is not built for any one over 5 11 160 pounds and if you are a bit crippled up not a good choice. The kitchen is a poor layout cramped and confined in fact I fine my BX a better lay out. Do not count out the BX it will do a ton of work and do it well, just slower if you. If are working in confined areas the B and the LX will limit your movements and that goes along with the mowing aspect. The BX is lower and easier to get on and off, and someone said the B series is just a BX with a lift kit and thats pretty spot on. And for 2 acers the BX will do every thing you want, they aint just a lawn mower! I am not down playing one over the other just opinions form some one that has both. Have the dealer bring the ones you are interested in out and let you play with one for a week end and get a feel for it.. just MHO