I am looking to replace my current machine with something better suited to my use. I have a Cat 226 with metal tracks that is used on hilly, rocky property. Road/trail work, creek/pond maintenance and some clearing of under brush are the most common uses. The Cat has been a great machine but I feel there must be something better suited to me. I understand the reason for the front to rear weight bias on skid loader but it cause problems on hills. I have to fill the bucket everytime I climb a hill. Backing up the hills is not an option due to distance. I have seen machines with longer wheelbases and wonder how much difference it makes on slopes. I watched an operator drive a large New Holland tracked machine forward up an incline I dont think I could have backed up. Are they that much better on slopes? I prefer tires and steel tracks due to the rocky ground and creek work but would consider rebber tracks. I would love a small dozer but the weight issue stops me I would like to stay in the 8000lb range due to hauling the machine several times a year. I have looked at the Rayco machines and the design seems better suited to my use but I just dont have the knowledge to make a decision. I am looking to buy late model used and would like to hear from anybody that has knowledge/experience in this area. Thanks in advance.
new machine advise
- Thread starter xrrider
- Start date
wheelbase certainly makes a difference but weight distribution does also. my NH is older but very stable on slopes and easy entry is a big thing for me. do any of them specify weight on front and rear axles seperately? The only real objection to it is that I can't lock the boom up in the garage as it is only a 9' 4” ceiling.
NH are normally very low to the ground which makes them very stable compared to most othe brands. Most skidsteers are a 30-70 weight split, Deeres are more a 40-60. Rubber tracks machines are hands down more stable and will drive up inclines better then andy wheel machine. Also a bit of driver style comes into. I see guys load bobcats with nothing on the front up pretty steep trailers like nothing. I can' do it.
reaperman
Well-known member
- Joined
- Dec 18, 2011
- Messages
- 707
If you are looking for a true, factory track skid loader and not slip over rubber tracks. Start by eliminating those machines that are over your preferred weight limit of 8000lbs. These track skid loaders are the cream of the crop and will out perform any tire machine in every area, except pushing snow ( too much surface area to get decent traction in snow ). With a factory track machine there is price to pay to maintain the tracks and under-carriage. With caterpillar machines being the most expensive and biggest piles of garbage in maintaining a set of tracks. All models will eventually need the tracks replaced depending on usage, but I'd say at around 1500 hours at 3 to 4 thousand for a set. Then the sprocket and front idler wheel, and most of the rollers on the cat at around $450/roller, bobcat rollers seem to hold up. In fact I have never saw one fail yet. With this kind of expense, the machine has to be making you money to justify owning it. Resale value on factory track machines isnt as friendly as tire machines. Because they are bought for serious work and get traded before something serious goes wrong. So for homeowner use, tire machines are a much better option. Slip over rubber tracks are a nice option without having to listen to the metal tracks squeak. They will take you places metal tracks wont, but dont like to be driven sideways on hill. The track can slip off of the tire and leave you in a pickle. They are a ba$tard to get back on. But as far as which machine suits your needs the best isnt easy to answer. I'm partial to Bobcat, I have been operating them and heavy equipment for over 20 years and have witnessed their durability. Many models of bobcats are very similar with lifting capacity being the main difference. A larger bucket on a skid loader will help hold the front end down when on hilly terrain. Most machines will out-lift their weight rating so a larger bucket to me is beneficial and not a drawback. As long as someone doesnt get carried away with something like a snow bucket and expect to play in the dirt. If the machine generally recommends a 60" bucket, use a 72 incher. I know it can be a tough decision. You will have to live with your decision for many years. And you want to do your best to make the proper choice, good luck.
