Tractor Pulled Scraper??

john1732

What is the advantage of using a scraper pulled by a tractor versus
a self propelled scraper? Here in Kansas this seems to be a new fad.
I have seen three scrapers pulled by a John Deere 9630. Thank You.

dakzaag

I noticed those about 5 years ago. I think in the midwest the smaller pans can handle more moist soil and the big tractors have better traction.

My BIL runs a bunch of earth movers in the desert, they don't mess with the pull behinds. Actually they used to run a bunch, now they just sit and watch it rust. Its frightening how slow some of the big cities are right now. The company he owns used to have over 300 employees, now I think they have less than 50.

__________________
D K & Sons
The maintenance schedule for brick
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sitegrader

I currently run 2 9520's pulling two pans and one 9520 pulling three pans. The tractors cost a lot less to own and operate vs traditional paddle wheels, twin engine push pulls, or conventional scrapers. I can put two complete units on the ground for what one 21 yard conventional scraper costs. Fuel consumption is a lot less on the ag style tractors pulling two scrapers, the triple in damp conditions will probably burn as much fuel as a conventional scraper, but I'm moving 51 cys per trip vs their 21-27 (rated yards). I've found these units will work in wet conditions where conventional scrapers can't.
Drawbacks I've found are ground speed is a lot slower on the ag style setups, but good planning and management can limit the longer hauls most of the time. Operator training is critical with these machines in that they are not as bullet (idiot) proof as the tried and true conventional scrapers. They have a new setup for these tractors from JD that once you start a cut, all you have to do is drive the tractor and pick up the pans when loaded. This new system contorls engine speed, ground speed and cut depth to maximum efficiancy. I have dug just about everything you can imagine with these machines from very high PI clays to sand and the machines have performed beyond my expectations. Hard limestone in my area that has to be ripped can be picked up with these machines but the softer ag style tires cut easily so we try to limit the jobs we bid that are mostly rock. Right now though, I'll take any project I can find just about anywhere, things are getting real slow in North Texas.
I used to own 4 paddle wheels and 2 conventional scrapers, since I've switched to this setup, I'll never go back.