Most are figuring between 5 and $10 per hour extra cost of operating for track, idler and sprocket wear. plus initial investment, likely 10k morewithout knowing what you are going to use it for and the kind of cash flow you have. It would be hard to sugest what you buy. I'm sure you will find the difference when you go shopping, it's a pretty big spread between the two. I like the tires with a set of over tire tracks. It's still a lot cheaper than a track machine. Spend the extra cash for a wheel machine with AC & Heated Cab. dennis
http://www.rubbertracksusa.com/bobcat.htmlThanks for the info so far guys. I own a business in San Antonio and would mainly use the machine to: clear some land (trees and brush), load dump trucks with wood chips, spread road base, compact road base, etc.... Most of the time this work surface will be black dirt or base material. I am being told by a contractor that the traction (pushing power) is vastly better with tracks. In addition, my business is a pallet company and loose nails around the shop will be a concern for tires. Based on your comments so far, it looks as if the newer, the better on a track machine. Cost is not really a factor, I just want the most "bang" for my buck.
Found this interesting too..... http://www.groundtradesxchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1272http://www.rubbertracksusa.com/bobcat.html
I would not be to quick to rule out running steel tracks overtop of "foam filled" tires whick flat proofs them. Pushing power is also vastly improved. and the tracks can be removed for work around your shop.Found this interesting too..... http://www.groundtradesxchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1272
You can purchase the solid tire & wheels for around 2 grand and run tracks on them, that is going to be my next purchase.I would not be to quick to rule out running steel tracks overtop of "foam filled" tires whick flat proofs them. Pushing power is also vastly improved. and the tracks can be removed for work around your shop.
Keep reading there is alot of talk on this topic
Ken
Old thread I know, but I think the rubber tire (say a Gallaxy Hulk L5) filled with the more cost effective reclaimed Tyr-Fill with the opton of steel over the tire tracks is also the way to go.Veratility, cost sffective, and durable. I have the machine, the tracks and next is the $1700 for the L-5's and the foam and my old rims. IronwoodMy opinion pretty much mirrors Farmboy's. I feel that flatproof tires with a set of over the tire tracks is a flawless combination. Extremely durable with a track like Loeggering or Grouser and I imagine McClaren Protracs also, versatile, and a pretty cost effective option. Also the tire machine will cost less initially and hold it's resale value better than a dedicated track machine. This combination gives you plenty of pushing power and floatation.