Thoughts on T180 modifications

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aabower

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Jan 31, 2014
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I own a evergreen tree farm and landscape business and this upcoming spring I am going to get into the mulch business, selling bulk mulch. I have a bobcat t180 with 1 yard bucket that is capable of loading most small trucks and trailers (which is what I will mainly be loading). My problem is that some of the larger 10 wheels are giving me some concern. I have loaded them before but it is a slow process and the t180 is just a little bit short in its reach. I don't think that I will be loading many big trucks but I don't want to discourage them from buying from me because of a slow load time. That being said here is my question: To avoid buying another tractor for loading big trucks do you think its plausible to build a ramp out of fill material with a level pad at the top, probably 4-6 feet high where the trucks could pull up parallel with the pile and just quickly load them? in my head this makes a lot of sense, even if I am 10 yards away from the pile to be able to avoid creeping up and attempting to feather the load into the truck without hitting it. I think that for the small amount of big trucks (if any) I would be loading it would help save time and money if I don't have to buy another tractor. Thanks for your thoughts, Aaron
 

siduramaxde

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Nov 15, 2005
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362
I would build a ramp/dock like you are talking about and I would also look into a bigger bucket for mulch. I'm a landscaper too and being the owner I cringe when I'm paying guys to sit around while a truck is being loaded.
 

Tazza

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Dec 7, 2004
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I would build a ramp/dock like you are talking about and I would also look into a bigger bucket for mulch. I'm a landscaper too and being the owner I cringe when I'm paying guys to sit around while a truck is being loaded.
I don't mind that idea either, as long as it isn't too steep to cause the machine to tip back after the load is dropped.
A larger bucket is an excellent idea too
 

Bobcatdan

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May 3, 2012
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I don't mind that idea either, as long as it isn't too steep to cause the machine to tip back after the load is dropped.
A larger bucket is an excellent idea too
Track machines are much more stable then a wheeled machine, as long as the angle is crazy, there wouldn't be any problem.
 

farmshop

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Mar 27, 2014
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Track machines are much more stable then a wheeled machine, as long as the angle is crazy, there wouldn't be any problem.
We have built ramps in the field just using dirt or manure load the pile than load the ramp. One local mulch supplier built a ramp used large concrete block for retaining wall about five feet tall and drives a 621 case up it
 
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