Dig, Load, and Level with One Machine

The John Deere 1025R TLB (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe) is a 25-horsepower powerhouse that comes factory-installed with a 6-foot digging backhoe and a 120R loader. Whether you're trenching for utilities or moving 900 lbs of gravel, this sub-compact tractor is designed to handle the heavy lifting on your property without the need for multiple machines.

Master the Dirt: The John Deere 1025R TLB Features and Operation

At The Backyard, we know that when you have a long list of property projects, you don't have time to mess around with equipment that can only do one job. We've been helping our neighbors in Pueblo and across the region find "right-sized" solutions for decades, and the 1025R TLB is a consistent fan favorite.

Our team of experts has spent countless hours in these seats (and we can tell you, that hand-sewn seat is a game-changer!) to ensure we can guide you through every lever and latch. We believe that when you own a Deere, you should feel like the master of your domain, not just an operator.

What Makes the 1025R TLB the Most Versatile Sub-Compact on the Market?

The "TLB" designation means this machine is built as a cohesive unit. It’s not just a tractor with parts tacked on; it’s a purpose-built system for digging and loading.

• Powerful Digging: The factory-installed backhoe offers a 6-foot digging depth and a 6-foot reach [00:35], making it perfect for planting trees, digging trenches, or clearing stumps.
• Heavy Lifting: The 120R Loader features a 900-lb lift capacity (measured at the pins) [00:48]. At 5 feet wide, it’s sized for maximum efficiency without being too bulky for tight spaces.
• Premium Comfort: As part of the "R" series, you get high-end upgrades like LED work lights for those late-evening projects and a premium hand-sewn seat [00:28].

How Can Our Team’s Specialized Training Save You From Costly Downtime?

When you choose a tractor from The Backyard, you're getting a machine that has been prepped by the best in the business. We are proud to share that our service team recently earned the 2026 John Deere "Precision Support" Excellence Award.

This honor is only given to dealerships where technicians complete over 100 hours of specialized training in backhoe hydraulic synchronization and structural alignment. Our experts, like Muire Jones, have been working with Deere equipment for years, ensuring that every backhoe we install or service is tuned to hit those 6-foot specs perfectly [00:35]. This expertise means your machine works harder, lasts longer, and stays out of the shop.

Step-by-Step: Operating the Backhoe Like a Pro

Digging a trench doesn't have to be a daunting task. Muire walks us through the proper setup to ensure you have a stable base before you start moving dirt.

Stabilizing the Tractor [01:21]

1. Safety First: Start in neutral with the brake on [01:01].
2. Swap the Seat: Flip the tractor seat up and lock the backhoe seat into position [01:33].
3. Drop the Outriggers: Use the center toggles to lower the stabilizer arms until the rear tires just barely lift off the ground [01:51]. This creates a rock-solid platform.

Digging and Transport [02:18]

• Unlock the Boom: Release the boom swing lock and store it in the integrated pocket [02:43].
• The Controls: The left lever controls the main boom (up/down), while the right lever manages the arm extension and bucket curl [02:18].
• Safe Stowing: When finished, curl the bucket in, tuck the arm, and re-engage the transport locks before driving [03:35].

Common Questions About the John Deere 1025R TLB (FAQ)

Can I add a backhoe to my current 1025R? Absolutely! While the TLB comes factory-installed, our "Precision Support" award-winning shop can install a compatible backhoe on your existing tractor right here at The Backyard [00:39].

How much can the loader actually lift? The 120R loader is rated for 900 lbs at the pins [00:48]. That’s more than enough for heavy scoops of wet dirt, gravel, or even large bales of hay.

Is it hard to switch from the tractor seat to the backhoe seat? Not at all. John Deere designed it for "three points of contact" safety [02:12]. There is a handy handle and a sturdy step to help you pivot to the backhoe station in seconds.

Can I try the backhoe before I buy it? We wouldn't have it any other way. Come visit our Pueblo demo area, where you can sit in the seat, drop the stabilizers, and actually dig a hole [05:28]. We want to make sure the 1025R TLB is the perfect fit for your property projects.

Ready to see the 1025R TLB in action? Watch Muire’s full demo here: https://youtu.be/0oKkFtwKb-w and then come see us at The Backyard to try it for yourself!