Kubota BX2200D FEL 3 Point Attachment Upgrade

[Vodka6mlet]

I'm thinking about adding a front end loader to my trusty old 2003 Kubota BX2200D. This tractor was my dad's, and it's mostly been a workhorse for towing a trailer of logs and cutting the grass with its 60" deck.
Now, I want to be able to do more with it, ideally, some hedge cutting or adding that FEL.
It seems the three point connection is quite limited, though? The lift capacity at the rear feels low, and I know a FEL would completely change the tractor's use.

Has anyone successfully added a loader or a heavy duty rear implement like a hedge trimmer to a BX2200D (or similar early BX model)?
Also, did adding the FEL make you upgrade your tires (like from turf to R4 industrial), or add fluid ballast to the front tires to handle the extra weight?

 

[hunting for fun]

Finding a compatible Front End Loader (FEL) for a 20-year-old machine will be very difficult coz that specific model was redesigned a few years after yours was made. I currently own a BX22, which is basically the same tractor as yours but came equipped with a FEL and backhoe, and I also had a BX2200 before trading it. I recall seeing a discussion about this exact issue and I don't think anyone found a definitive solution back then, but my memory could be mistaken.

 

[Alan]

Adding a front-end loader puts extra stress on the front axle and steering components. It's a good idea to check for any wear and think about reinforcing the front frame or upgrading the bushings if you decide to move forward.

 

[Mimos4]

Now, I want to be able to do more with it, ideally, some hedge cutting or adding that FEL.

man, forget the hedge cutter for a second, that BX has a notoriously low 3 point lift capacity.
You can't just put a big commercial hedge trimmer on it. believe me, you'll max out the hydraulics or the lift arms will struggle. But for the FEL, you're good, as long as you stick to light duty scoops

If you add a FEL, get a SpeeCo quick hitch (or similar) for your 3 point. It won't increase lift capacity, but it makes swapping implements (like switching your counterbalance weight from a box blade to a ballast box) 100 times easier
The capacity limitation is mostly the cylinder size, unfortunately

 

[Alan]

Good call. Being aware of the lift limits and using a quick hitch for hassle-free implement changes is really smart advice.