Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction

BreyerConstruct · 12-26-2007, 12:47 AM

Hey guys:

Here's the scoop:

In the next month or so, assuming a financial institution sees things our way, we'll be looking to buy or lease a machine. I'm struggling to know which way to look, and could use some guidance.

We're primarily a deck building company. For our work, an auger is a must. it's got to be 16", and it's got to be powerful- those little 2-man jobbers won't cut it (we've tried). The stand-on Toro's won't work, as they're not quite strong enough. The only machine that's been close to good is a Thomas diesel stand-on machine.

It would be nice to have the ability to lift materials up to a 8-12' off-the-ground deck with a machine.

It'd be nice to use a machine to move skids of salt in the winter, rather than hand unloading & loading (we'll prolly use 12-18 skids this year).

We occasionally put in a patio, walkway, or small landscape retaining wall, and the ability to move materials around, cut out sod, and do some excavation would be nice.

This year for the above tasks we've rented a walk-behind machine 6-8 times, a skiddy 1-2 times, and a compact tractor 2-3 times.

Is things continue as planned (hoped, and prayed for), we'll be doubling our business activities for 2008. My concern is being ready to handle the work as it comes at us in as efficiently of a manner as possible.

I like the size and attachments of a skiddy, but not the stability or lack of visibility (have you tried to look out the side of a JD??).

I'd love to have something of a Case 590 with an extenda-hoe for the reach, but can't dream of using it!!

In all honesty, The best solution I've come up with is a compact tractor.
Something that's 4wd, 35-55hp, with a loader, maybe skiddy quick-attach setup, and a 3pt. post hole digger on the back.
The loader with forks would have to lift 2600lbs, as that's about what to expect for a normal pallet of salt (2450 + Pallet weight, but you need a margin or error, right?!!)

I love the idea of digging the deck footers, then moving the materials around back, lifting them as needed, having the ability to dump stone under the deck during construction, moving materials around our shop, and having it available to move snow, if we actually got any real accumulation.

A concern would be having to rebuild a few fences, since I won't be able to fit in a 36" gate that a few clients might have.

Another concern is buying the wrong machine. A thought was to lease... but I'm not sure of the advantages for us.

I've got a Kubota dealer near us, but I'm not K's #1 fan- they always seem underpowered and rudimentary.

I like JD for the layout & feel, but they seem under built & overpriced.

I like New Hollands the best all-around... and Maharinda (don't flame me for posting an imported machine- all of our's are mostly anyway!!!) for the cost & on-paper value.

Kubota & JD's are the closest dealers, about 15 minutes away each.
NH is about 30, and Bobcat's about an hour.
I'm not sure about Case, MF, or any other.

Oh, current price point:
Given that we're not slated to start off using the machine constently, I'm a bit hesitent to buy a brand-new machine. I think we'd be there in 2-4 years, but I can trade a bit of reliability for overhead right now.
I'd like to invest between $15k and $35k in the machine, attachments, trailer, and any upfitting needed to the above.

Renting won't be a good option going forward, as our scheduling will begin to get tougher, and the only Thomas is 1/2 hour the other direction from our usual direction for work.

OK, there's my story. For those of you not laughing at my ramblings, I'd truly appreciate your thoughts on machine classes, brands, and the "business" end of things.

I truly appreciate your time.
~Matt

**joasis** · 12-26-2007, 06:08 AM

Except for the top lift height you desire, a 763 Bobcat would get you there, and be all the machine you would need, plus would fit the bottom of your budget range. I think you would be disappointed in using a tractor/loader to do what you want, and a 3 point post hole digger is useless without down pressure...plus the machine would be awkward compared to a skid steer. A TLB is hard to get in tight areas.....but, if you get one plumbed with auxiliary hydraulics, you would be impressed what an auger can do off of the boom. Check eBay...lots of choices, and equipment prices seem to be coming down right now.

jmic · 12-26-2007, 07:42 AM

Yep I'd say skid steer is the direction you should be looking at. For the occasional times you need to raise materials up to 12', I'd have a special set of forks made to slide over the reg. that were raised 4' or so to make up the dif.

tgeb · 12-26-2007, 09:03 AM

You may want to consider a compact track loader. Same maneuverability as a skid loader, similar size but greater lifting capacity. Tracks give you better floatation and will do less damage to the customers property.

I have a Takeuchi TL130 with low hours, in great condition that is for sale. I am about 2 hours away from you, if interested you can come down and give it a work out.

BreyerConstruct · 12-26-2007, 10:10 AM

Joasis,

I hadn't thought about the down pressure; I've never used a 3point auger before, so I'm going on speculation. Wouldn't it be possible to add an additional hydro cylinder?

The maneuverability is a concern...
The Bobcat you mentioned does hit the $$ perfectly, and the age of that machine's era seems to be a good fit. I'd have to get used to foot controls though, right?

(Not to start up THAT war or anything).
I'm still concerned about the support issue w/ no close dealer, but it's some good thoughts. thanks!

JMIC,

The custom forks idea is a good one.
One of the things I've noticed from looking up the stats on both of the machines listed so far is, if I read them correctly, they both will lift 8'. Truth be told, 8' is a lot better than nothing, and would encompass the vast majority of the work we do!

tgeb,

The track idea is a good one. I like stability and reduced damage!
Any cons to tracks?
BTW, thanks for the offer to visit. I might just take you up on the offer. If you've got a 1/2 day of beginner/intermediet work to be done in the next month or so, let me know. I'd be glad to trade my labor for a few hours for the oppertunity to use a maching & get your feedback.

One thing I've noticed is the tip weight & the operating weight; will a machine with a 1400-1600 operating weight lift a 2600lb skid into a pick-up truck's bed?

Thanks for the thoughts guys,
~Matt

BAREIN · 12-26-2007, 11:28 AM

I would get a skidloader A compact tractor is just to hard to manuver and I think you will be dissapointed in the 3 point auger, as sombody all ready stated, plus I think you will need to get in the upper end of your horsepower to be able to lift what you want, then a 50-60 horespower tractor is getting pretty big. The Bobcat 763 would be a good machine but wont lift nearly what you want it to. That Takeuchi that is for sale would be a great machine( they make the best compact track IMHO) would almost lift what you want to and do the least damage to exsisting lawns, But they are horrible for snow removal. and watch the height of the Takeuchi because they are pretty tall for there size.

tgeb · 12-26-2007, 04:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BreyerConstruct

tgeb,

The track idea is a good one. I like stability and reduced damage!
Any cons to tracks?
BTW, thanks for the offer to visit. I might just take you up on the offer. If you've got a 1/2 day of beginner/intermediet work to be done in the next month or so, let me know. I'd be glad to trade my labor for a few hours for the oppertunity to use a maching & get your feedback.

One thing I've noticed is the tip weight & the operating weight; will a machine with a 1400-1600 operating weight lift a 2600lb skid into a pick-up truck's bed?

Thanks for the thoughts guys,
~Matt

One thing that is very confusing when it comes to "wheeled" skid steer loaders and compact "tracked" loaders is the way they rate the operating capacity.

A skid steer is rated at 50% of the tipping load, for instance a loader that has an operating capacity of 1,700 pounds will tip at 3,400 pounds in the ISO testing.

A compact track loader is rated at 35% of the tipping load, so for instance my Takeuchi has an operating capacity of 1,620 pounds and will tip at 4,630 pounds in the ISO testing.

So at first glance it would appear that the skid loader has a greater lifting capability than does the compact track loader, when in reality the compact track loader can and will pick up much greater weight, and do so safely.

A 2,600 lb pallet would be well within the limits of the tracked machine, while depending upon conditions, could exceed the limits of the wheeled skid steer loader.

My loader has an enclosed cab with heat and A/C. I will try and set aside some easy work for you. This loader has the pilot controls and is very easy to run. I've got a foundation back-fill coming up that might be perfect for you to give it a try on.

BAREIN is correct about the height of the Takeuchi's cab it is pretty tall just over 7 feet.
I did use mine though for clearing snow and had no issues with it, though it can be a little bit more prone to sliding than the wheeled loaders.

PS. Welcome to the site, BAREIN. We all look forward to your posts.

Tom F. · 12-26-2007, 05:35 PM

FWIW, I have a New Holland TC40D that I like a lot. It has the NH backhoe setup, which is a slide-on unit. I pull it off and use a box-blade for earth moving and finish work. I also rent a 3 point seeder that works great behind it. It also has a NH loader with quick change bucket and forks. It is an excellent all-around machine. For my purposes, as a residential contractor, I couldn't do much better. Cost about 35K new, with a trailer.

While it is compact in nature, for a tractor, I do find it pretty awkward in tight spots. Fortunately in my area we build on big lots generally, so space isn't usually an issue. The backhoe is plenty powerful, I have a 12" and an 18" bucket. Nice for footers and odd digs. The reach is not overwhelming, so for big jobs like field lines or whole-house footers I get my backhoe sub to come and knock it out.

The loader will only lift about half a pallet of mortar. I don't think any of the small machines will do much better.

I sometimes consider buying a big telescopic yard lift, as I spend a bundle renting these. If I had that for material handling, then I'd probably be better off with a Bobcat for gradework and filling, rather than the tractor, because of the manuverability. The full-size backhoe guys are pretty cheap, and are much faster than me for most jobs.

This is probably not the machine for your application. But, I'll tell you, I really labored with the decision whether to spend the money. And I have never been sorry. The machine gets used every day it is at the job site. It saves my back and the backs of my guys, and creates good will when I use it to help out a sub-trade or one of the neighbors in the subdivision. Wouldn't give it up.

Tom

Vinny · 12-26-2007, 05:51 PM

Matt, I too would suggest a track skid steer. There are several threads here on the exact subject but in the end they're more stabil than any tractor type machine and the cat would probably do the least damage to a site IMHO, but I know from experience they are also the highest cost to maintain.

Continue to rent for demos and then buy. There's plenty of used stuff out there and there will probably be more down the road.

Good luck

tnmtn · 12-26-2007, 09:04 PM

matt,
the route i went with was for a compact tlb. the others are right that i many cases it isn't the best machine for the job but it always seems to get it done. you have demoed skids and mini skids, so at this point i would suggest trying the bobcat backhoes. they aren't being produced anymore but their are planty of used ones available either through bobcat or I/R. i have been very happy with where i can get mine with 4 wheel steering and 4 wheel drive. there is no comparison between these machines and the deere 110 or kubota l48. i have a skid steer quick attach front and hydraulics run to the front for skid attachments. i could also run hydraulics to the backhoe and run a post hole digger from there if needed. i was able to purchase mine w/ trailer and a couple attachments as well as a used dingo tx-425 within your price point. i am very happy with both machines working together. they compliment each other well.
good luck,

LNG24 · 12-27-2007, 08:43 PM

Check out craigslist! A lot of equipment listed there. If you know exactly what you want, go to Google.com and search like this:

Quote:

craigslist,TC40

That will search ALL of Craigslist. Then if you find something for the right price you can either make a trip and pick it up or hire someone to Haul it out to you. I use Yesterdays Tractor Hauling Schedule another one is UShip.com. I never used that one, but same principal.

I find most guys on thee much cheeper than Freight. It is mostly guys like us. Small business owners!

rino1494 · 12-27-2007, 09:03 PM

A Cat 345 should suit you nicely.

BreyerConstruct · 12-27-2007, 10:16 PM

http://www.findstone.com/img/rs447CAT345BL.jpg

is what comes up when I searched for it.

I'm guessing you're meaning the small Cat track loader, not the big one, right?

~Matt

BreyerConstruct · 12-27-2007, 10:22 PM

Ps, I just realized there's a Cleveland Brothers about 25 minutes away, lots of Cat stuff.

So I've been thinking about this topic a lot recently, and I've got a few new thoughts, largely based on the advice I've been getting above.

I think I'm getting convinced to move away from a TC40 or equivilent, and maybe looking at a decent skiddy. The fellow who has the small TLB + the Dingo... man, there's an awesome combo!! But, I've got to be realistic.

Now, given that we won't be using the machine FT, I'm looking more for the bare necessities, and not for the premium capacity, like I would if we were using it every day.

If I'm looking for a skiddy that has a tipping weight of around 4k, and my local dealers are Cat, Case, and JD. JD is the closest,
What should I consider, and what should I stay away from?
New or used?
I'll mostly likely be leasing, but not necessarily thru the dealer.

Have I made a complete circle in my thinking yet? LOL

~Matt

rino1494 · 12-27-2007, 10:30 PM

geez, I just realized that you are in Reading.

BreyerConstruct · 12-27-2007, 10:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rino1494

geez, I just realized that you are in Reading.

You're up around Hazeltown, right?

~Matt

rino1494 · 12-27-2007, 10:51 PM

I live in Dallas, which is 5 min from Wilkes-Barre.

BreyerConstruct · 12-27-2007, 11:02 PM

when it comes to equipment, what do you like, and why?

~Matt

BAREIN · 12-28-2007, 10:14 AM

First I think you need to decide if you need a compact track or if you can get by with a tire loader. The tire skiddy is going to be much cheaper and operation cost will be less, and it will be better if you use it for snow removal. downfall is that your going to be limited by muddy days and you will be reparing lawns a little more. As far as track loaders I would not currently by a Cat or a Case, Cats IMHO are awesome to run but the undercarriage is there downfall, the only guys that you see run them around here are diehard cat guys and they trade them off frequently to avoid problems. As for case I have demoed a few and they are good performers to but alls they are is a tire machine with a track setup, I have a buddy that works at a Case dealer there always in for update/recalls one even had a blown motor at 300 hours, I was talking to a competitor dealer owner and he said that he trys to avoid taking the Case track loaders in on trade. As for Deere I havent heard a thing about there track loaders I see alot of tire ones but very few track ones. choose carefully if you want to keep past warrenty driveline repaire is very costly on skidloaders. As for tire machine as long as you dont beat on them with over the tire track they should all hold up look for the one that suits you the best, and for the best deal, the only ones that ive heard real bad things about are the 200 seies 1 Deeres. Sorry if ive scared you away from skidloaders but weve been and have buddys who have been on the wrong side of a driveline repair and its scary.

Bone Saw · 12-28-2007, 11:21 AM

I can't speak for your salt pallet lifting needs, but for what we do Matt, this should be all you need. I agree with bare and others on the cost and maintainence and snow maneuverability issues with wheeled vs track units. One other thing to consider is having another trailer to transport a larger unit in, and the associated turf dammage you will encounter. keeping the machine small and light and your maneuvers to gradual arcs vs doing 360 allover the place will virtually eliminate decimating your clients lawns.

12-26-2007, 06:08 AM	#2
joasis View Profile joasis Pro Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (6,057) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Pro Trade: General Contractor Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Hennessey, Oklahoma Posts: 6,057	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction Except for the top lift height you desire, a 763 Bobcat would get you there, and be all the machine you would need, plus would fit the bottom of your budget range. I think you would be disappointed in using a tractor/loader to do what you want, and a 3 point post hole digger is useless without down pressure...plus the machine would be awkward compared to a skid steer. A TLB is hard to get in tight areas.....but, if you get one plumbed with auxiliary hydraulics, you would be impressed what an auger can do off of the boom. Check eBay...lots of choices, and equipment prices seem to be coming down right now. __________________ Ladwig Construction Hennessey, Oklahoma 405 853 1563 Ladwig Insulation & Construction Services Serving Oklahoma Statewide Last edited by joasis; 12-26-2007 at 07:55 AM.

12-26-2007, 07:42 AM	#3
jmic View Profile jmic Pro Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (3,660) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Pro Trade: manager of excavation division Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: danbury,ct. Posts: 3,660	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction Yep I'd say skid steer is the direction you should be looking at. For the occasional times you need to raise materials up to 12', I'd have a special set of forks made to slide over the reg. that were raised 4' or so to make up the dif. __________________ ___"Remember You Never Get A Second Chance To Make A First Impression"______________________ Joe

12-26-2007, 09:03 AM	#4
tgeb View Profile tgeb Contractor Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (3,278) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Contractor Trade: Excavation, Foundation, Concrete Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Maryland Posts: 3,278	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction You may want to consider a compact track loader. Same maneuverability as a skid loader, similar size but greater lifting capacity. Tracks give you better floatation and will do less damage to the customers property. I have a Takeuchi TL130 with low hours, in great condition that is for sale. I am about 2 hours away from you, if interested you can come down and give it a work out. __________________ Tom www.gebcon.com

12-26-2007, 10:10 AM	#5
BreyerConstruct View Profile BreyerConstruct Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (1,740) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Trade: Deck Designer/Builder Join Date: May 2006 Location: Reading, PA Posts: 1,740	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction Joasis, I hadn't thought about the down pressure; I've never used a 3point auger before, so I'm going on speculation. Wouldn't it be possible to add an additional hydro cylinder? The maneuverability is a concern... The Bobcat you mentioned does hit the $$ perfectly, and the age of that machine's era seems to be a good fit. I'd have to get used to foot controls though, right? (Not to start up THAT war or anything). I'm still concerned about the support issue w/ no close dealer, but it's some good thoughts. thanks! JMIC, The custom forks idea is a good one. One of the things I've noticed from looking up the stats on both of the machines listed so far is, if I read them correctly, they both will lift 8'. Truth be told, 8' is a lot better than nothing, and would encompass the vast majority of the work we do! tgeb, The track idea is a good one. I like stability and reduced damage! Any cons to tracks? BTW, thanks for the offer to visit. I might just take you up on the offer. If you've got a 1/2 day of beginner/intermediet work to be done in the next month or so, let me know. I'd be glad to trade my labor for a few hours for the oppertunity to use a maching & get your feedback. One thing I've noticed is the tip weight & the operating weight; will a machine with a 1400-1600 operating weight lift a 2600lb skid into a pick-up truck's bed? Thanks for the thoughts guys, ~Matt __________________ Custom Deck Builder Deck Designer Lancaster Deck Builder Berks Deck Cleaning Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC Facebook Page www.BreyerConstruction.com

12-26-2007, 11:28 AM	#6
BAREIN View Profile BAREIN New Guy Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (23) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity New Guy Trade: small excavating landscaping Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Janesville WI Posts: 23	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction I would get a skidloader A compact tractor is just to hard to manuver and I think you will be dissapointed in the 3 point auger, as sombody all ready stated, plus I think you will need to get in the upper end of your horsepower to be able to lift what you want, then a 50-60 horespower tractor is getting pretty big. The Bobcat 763 would be a good machine but wont lift nearly what you want it to. That Takeuchi that is for sale would be a great machine( they make the best compact track IMHO) would almost lift what you want to and do the least damage to exsisting lawns, But they are horrible for snow removal. and watch the height of the Takeuchi because they are pretty tall for there size.

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12-26-2007, 12:47 AM	#1
BreyerConstruct View Profile BreyerConstruct Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (1,740) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Trade: Deck Designer/Builder Join Date: May 2006 Location: Reading, PA Posts: 1,740	Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction Hey guys: Here's the scoop: In the next month or so, assuming a financial institution sees things our way, we'll be looking to buy or lease a machine. I'm struggling to know which way to look, and could use some guidance. We're primarily a deck building company. For our work, an auger is a must. it's got to be 16", and it's got to be powerful- those little 2-man jobbers won't cut it (we've tried). The stand-on Toro's won't work, as they're not quite strong enough. The only machine that's been close to good is a Thomas diesel stand-on machine. It would be nice to have the ability to lift materials up to a 8-12' off-the-ground deck with a machine. It'd be nice to use a machine to move skids of salt in the winter, rather than hand unloading & loading (we'll prolly use 12-18 skids this year). We occasionally put in a patio, walkway, or small landscape retaining wall, and the ability to move materials around, cut out sod, and do some excavation would be nice. This year for the above tasks we've rented a walk-behind machine 6-8 times, a skiddy 1-2 times, and a compact tractor 2-3 times. Is things continue as planned (hoped, and prayed for), we'll be doubling our business activities for 2008. My concern is being ready to handle the work as it comes at us in as efficiently of a manner as possible. I like the size and attachments of a skiddy, but not the stability or lack of visibility (have you tried to look out the side of a JD??). I'd love to have something of a Case 590 with an extenda-hoe for the reach, but can't dream of using it!! In all honesty, The best solution I've come up with is a compact tractor. Something that's 4wd, 35-55hp, with a loader, maybe skiddy quick-attach setup, and a 3pt. post hole digger on the back. The loader with forks would have to lift 2600lbs, as that's about what to expect for a normal pallet of salt (2450 + Pallet weight, but you need a margin or error, right?!!) I love the idea of digging the deck footers, then moving the materials around back, lifting them as needed, having the ability to dump stone under the deck during construction, moving materials around our shop, and having it available to move snow, if we actually got any real accumulation. A concern would be having to rebuild a few fences, since I won't be able to fit in a 36" gate that a few clients might have. Another concern is buying the wrong machine. A thought was to lease... but I'm not sure of the advantages for us. I've got a Kubota dealer near us, but I'm not K's #1 fan- they always seem underpowered and rudimentary. I like JD for the layout & feel, but they seem under built & overpriced. I like New Hollands the best all-around... and Maharinda (don't flame me for posting an imported machine- all of our's are mostly anyway!!!) for the cost & on-paper value. Kubota & JD's are the closest dealers, about 15 minutes away each. NH is about 30, and Bobcat's about an hour. I'm not sure about Case, MF, or any other. Oh, current price point: Given that we're not slated to start off using the machine constently, I'm a bit hesitent to buy a brand-new machine. I think we'd be there in 2-4 years, but I can trade a bit of reliability for overhead right now. I'd like to invest between $15k and $35k in the machine, attachments, trailer, and any upfitting needed to the above. Renting won't be a good option going forward, as our scheduling will begin to get tougher, and the only Thomas is 1/2 hour the other direction from our usual direction for work. OK, there's my story. For those of you not laughing at my ramblings, I'd truly appreciate your thoughts on machine classes, brands, and the "business" end of things. I truly appreciate your time. ~Matt __________________ Custom Deck Builder Deck Designer Lancaster Deck Builder Berks Deck Cleaning Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC Facebook Page www.BreyerConstruction.com

12-26-2007, 05:35 PM	#8
Tom F. View Profile Tom F. Awaiting direction.... Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (87) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Awaiting direction.... Trade: Residential Homebuilding Contractor--ICF/Stamped Concrete, too Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: East Tennessee Posts: 87	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction FWIW, I have a New Holland TC40D that I like a lot. It has the NH backhoe setup, which is a slide-on unit. I pull it off and use a box-blade for earth moving and finish work. I also rent a 3 point seeder that works great behind it. It also has a NH loader with quick change bucket and forks. It is an excellent all-around machine. For my purposes, as a residential contractor, I couldn't do much better. Cost about 35K new, with a trailer. While it is compact in nature, for a tractor, I do find it pretty awkward in tight spots. Fortunately in my area we build on big lots generally, so space isn't usually an issue. The backhoe is plenty powerful, I have a 12" and an 18" bucket. Nice for footers and odd digs. The reach is not overwhelming, so for big jobs like field lines or whole-house footers I get my backhoe sub to come and knock it out. The loader will only lift about half a pallet of mortar. I don't think any of the small machines will do much better. I sometimes consider buying a big telescopic yard lift, as I spend a bundle renting these. If I had that for material handling, then I'd probably be better off with a Bobcat for gradework and filling, rather than the tractor, because of the manuverability. The full-size backhoe guys are pretty cheap, and are much faster than me for most jobs. This is probably not the machine for your application. But, I'll tell you, I really labored with the decision whether to spend the money. And I have never been sorry. The machine gets used every day it is at the job site. It saves my back and the backs of my guys, and creates good will when I use it to help out a sub-trade or one of the neighbors in the subdivision. Wouldn't give it up. Tom

12-26-2007, 05:51 PM	#9
Vinny View Profile Vinny Captain of the Titanic Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (692) Photos (4) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Captain of the Titanic Trade: Asphalt Paving,Excavating, Masonry Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Westport, Connecticut Posts: 692	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction Matt, I too would suggest a track skid steer. There are several threads here on the exact subject but in the end they're more stabil than any tractor type machine and the cat would probably do the least damage to a site IMHO, but I know from experience they are also the highest cost to maintain. Continue to rent for demos and then buy. There's plenty of used stuff out there and there will probably be more down the road. Good luck __________________ Roccies Asphalt Paving The Right Way Driveway Company If you say you cant, your a loser. If you say you wont, your a quiter. Which one do you want to be?

12-26-2007, 09:04 PM	#10
tnmtn View Profile tnmtn Pro Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (145) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Pro Trade: excavation, site work, hydroseeding Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: northeast Tn. Posts: 145	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction matt, the route i went with was for a compact tlb. the others are right that i many cases it isn't the best machine for the job but it always seems to get it done. you have demoed skids and mini skids, so at this point i would suggest trying the bobcat backhoes. they aren't being produced anymore but their are planty of used ones available either through bobcat or I/R. i have been very happy with where i can get mine with 4 wheel steering and 4 wheel drive. there is no comparison between these machines and the deere 110 or kubota l48. i have a skid steer quick attach front and hydraulics run to the front for skid attachments. i could also run hydraulics to the backhoe and run a post hole digger from there if needed. i was able to purchase mine w/ trailer and a couple attachments as well as a used dingo tx-425 within your price point. i am very happy with both machines working together. they compliment each other well. good luck,

12-27-2007, 09:03 PM	#12
rino1494 View Profile rino1494 Vagitarian Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (3,096) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Vagitarian Trade: site and utility contractor Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Dallas, PA Posts: 3,096	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction A Cat 345 should suit you nicely. __________________ Life is hard. It is harder when you are stupid Uncle Sam wants YOU....to speak ENGLISH

12-27-2007, 10:16 PM	#13
BreyerConstruct View Profile BreyerConstruct Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (1,740) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Trade: Deck Designer/Builder Join Date: May 2006 Location: Reading, PA Posts: 1,740	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction http://www.findstone.com/img/rs447CAT345BL.jpg is what comes up when I searched for it. I'm guessing you're meaning the small Cat track loader, not the big one, right? ~Matt __________________ Custom Deck Builder Deck Designer Lancaster Deck Builder Berks Deck Cleaning Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC Facebook Page www.BreyerConstruction.com

12-27-2007, 10:22 PM	#14
BreyerConstruct View Profile BreyerConstruct Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (1,740) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Trade: Deck Designer/Builder Join Date: May 2006 Location: Reading, PA Posts: 1,740	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction Ps, I just realized there's a Cleveland Brothers about 25 minutes away, lots of Cat stuff. So I've been thinking about this topic a lot recently, and I've got a few new thoughts, largely based on the advice I've been getting above. I think I'm getting convinced to move away from a TC40 or equivilent, and maybe looking at a decent skiddy. The fellow who has the small TLB + the Dingo... man, there's an awesome combo!! But, I've got to be realistic. Now, given that we won't be using the machine FT, I'm looking more for the bare necessities, and not for the premium capacity, like I would if we were using it every day. If I'm looking for a skiddy that has a tipping weight of around 4k, and my local dealers are Cat, Case, and JD. JD is the closest, What should I consider, and what should I stay away from? New or used? I'll mostly likely be leasing, but not necessarily thru the dealer. Have I made a complete circle in my thinking yet? LOL ~Matt __________________ Custom Deck Builder Deck Designer Lancaster Deck Builder Berks Deck Cleaning Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC Facebook Page www.BreyerConstruction.com

12-27-2007, 10:30 PM	#15
rino1494 View Profile rino1494 Vagitarian Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (3,096) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Vagitarian Trade: site and utility contractor Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Dallas, PA Posts: 3,096	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction geez, I just realized that you are in Reading. __________________ Life is hard. It is harder when you are stupid Uncle Sam wants YOU....to speak ENGLISH

12-27-2007, 10:51 PM	#17
rino1494 View Profile rino1494 Vagitarian Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (3,096) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Vagitarian Trade: site and utility contractor Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Dallas, PA Posts: 3,096	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction I live in Dallas, which is 5 min from Wilkes-Barre. __________________ Life is hard. It is harder when you are stupid Uncle Sam wants YOU....to speak ENGLISH

12-27-2007, 11:02 PM	#18
BreyerConstruct View Profile BreyerConstruct Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (1,740) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Workin' Hard & Havin' Fun Trade: Deck Designer/Builder Join Date: May 2006 Location: Reading, PA Posts: 1,740	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction when it comes to equipment, what do you like, and why? ~Matt __________________ Custom Deck Builder Deck Designer Lancaster Deck Builder Berks Deck Cleaning Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC Facebook Page www.BreyerConstruction.com

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12-28-2007, 10:14 AM	#19
BAREIN View Profile BAREIN New Guy Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (23) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity New Guy Trade: small excavating landscaping Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Janesville WI Posts: 23	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction First I think you need to decide if you need a compact track or if you can get by with a tire loader. The tire skiddy is going to be much cheaper and operation cost will be less, and it will be better if you use it for snow removal. downfall is that your going to be limited by muddy days and you will be reparing lawns a little more. As far as track loaders I would not currently by a Cat or a Case, Cats IMHO are awesome to run but the undercarriage is there downfall, the only guys that you see run them around here are diehard cat guys and they trade them off frequently to avoid problems. As for case I have demoed a few and they are good performers to but alls they are is a tire machine with a track setup, I have a buddy that works at a Case dealer there always in for update/recalls one even had a blown motor at 300 hours, I was talking to a competitor dealer owner and he said that he trys to avoid taking the Case track loaders in on trade. As for Deere I havent heard a thing about there track loaders I see alot of tire ones but very few track ones. choose carefully if you want to keep past warrenty driveline repaire is very costly on skidloaders. As for tire machine as long as you dont beat on them with over the tire track they should all hold up look for the one that suits you the best, and for the best deal, the only ones that ive heard real bad things about are the 200 seies 1 Deeres. Sorry if ive scared you away from skidloaders but weve been and have buddys who have been on the wrong side of a driveline repair and its scary.

12-28-2007, 11:21 AM	#20
Bone Saw View Profile Bone Saw Charitable animal Send Message Follow Blogs (0) Threads (2,510) Photos (0) Reviews (0) Projects (0) Toolbox (0) View All Activity Charitable animal Trade: decks Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Chester Co. PA Posts: 2,510	Re: Tractor/Skiddy/ Need Direction I can't speak for your salt pallet lifting needs, but for what we do Matt, this should be all you need. I agree with bare and others on the cost and maintainence and snow maneuverability issues with wheeled vs track units. One other thing to consider is having another trailer to transport a larger unit in, and the associated turf dammage you will encounter. keeping the machine small and light and your maneuvers to gradual arcs vs doing 360 allover the place will virtually eliminate decimating your clients lawns. __________________ Custom Decks & Carpentry LLC. Chester County Custom Decks Custom Deckbuilder Mainline Philadelphia Deck Builder Custom Decks & Carpentry on Facebook