skidsteer

[SGibson]

Was thinking of buying a bobcat 463, I can get used ones for 8500-9500 w/ less than 800hrs. I realize alot of people think of this model as little more than a motorized dustpan, but I need a small one to access alot of my jobs (block ret walls) and running wheelbarrows of inch clean and minus is killing my back and pocket. Was going to rent one next week and see how I like it, any input appreciated

 

[nps]

I think you'll like it. My only caution is whether using a skid steer on the job will cause turf damage that you will have to deal with, unlike a wheelbarrow that is turf-friendly.

 

[TowPro]

Yes, it will cause major turf damage every time you turn it even if its just a little bit.



maybe look at some of those smaller John Deere's or similar with a front end loaders. As long as you keep your foot off the dif lock pedals it will be much better on lawns.

 

[mjendrejcak]

If you are only running light duty work look at a Toro Dingo or a small tractor with a FEL. Both can be had off EBAY for less than $3000 in decent shape.

 

[SMolteberg]

I'm not sure about it's size, but Bobcat have now a version with 4wheel steer instead of skidsteer. I recall from the presentation it have a mode for skidsteer also.

 

[skobylenski]

Yes, Bobcat has an AWS model now, I forget the exact number, tho. I've played around with one for a few minutes, they are nice, but the controls are a little sluggish and non-responsive due to the fact that they are "fly-by-wire" as opposed to direct control like on other models. The joystick control doesn't work too well in "skid mode", but AWS mode works well with the joystick. Of course, AWS is only available on the bigger model skidsteers, which directly translates into more money You might also want to look into the tracked skidsteers, which have WAY less ground pressure, and very little turf damage as long as you're careful.



Another vehicle to look at would be the new Bobcat ToolCat wheeled vehicle. Its big bucks, but its a utility vehicle with a loader on the front and a dumping bed. Ok, I'm starting to sound like a salesman for Bobcat now... .

 

[nps]

I only speculated that turf damage MAY be a problem on his jobs - maybe not.



What are your thoughts on a skidsteer if turf damage is no issue - or do you think the other alternatives are better all the way around?

 

[SGibson]

I have a buddy who does all my conc. work on these jobs, he has a gehl skidsteer and yes it rips up the ground big time and has cost me some time w/dumping topsoil, regrading and seeding. If it's wet it's near disastorous. The 4WS models are all larger ones that don't fit thru entry gates,nor do the tracked models, the dingo and other walk behinds won't dump into my truck (5ft. ) I sold my Dodge 900 so all I have left to haul w/ is CTD's, I am taking the bed off my 93 and replacing it with a flat bed to haul skids of block with and tow this thing around so I am somewhat limited now that I only have 1tons with how much I can haul around

 

[bmoeller]

http://www.steinerturf.com/products/tractors/



Will one of these work for you? Won't load a truck, though.

 

[SGibson]

Won't do. I need something that can load over the side of my truck and backfill ret. walls.

 

[Boomer II]

I like these. http://www.asvi.com/index.cfm

Polaris puts their name on the 30hp model for less money.