Hey Eric, so the Case isn't something you would use much for anything other than backhoe work?
I ask because losing the Case altogether (to trade it for a mini ex) could leave you with a possible void?
We all have different needs though. For myself I mount and use the hoe about 1/15th of the time, mostly use the tractor for other things. mowing, fork lift for firewood totes, grapple/brush removal, and FEL work. But then again I fit a pretty homogenous need/use factor when it comes to a piece of equipment like a tractor.
I look at mini excavators, and really see the way they could substantially improve maybe 25% overall of what I'm doing around the homestead... based on my use patterns. I could even say up to 50% if I stretch it.
2 things:
I can't lose the FEL/mowing/,bucket/forklift capabilities of a tractor, and even though some of those capabilities can be added back to the right sized ex, speed/maneuverability of a tractor isn't something I can move away from.
It's really interesting comparing the functionality of todays very expandable ag tractors or even skid loaders and (excavators to a degree) to the personal computer. They are all the "Swiss Army knives" of their respective genre.
For $600/ month... I'm filling lots of needs here. After 2.5 years behind the wheel, I'm thoroughly impressed with the robustness and variability these machines offer the everyday needs of so many out there.
There are 3 top items for me here.
I wish I would have done this 5, 10, or even 15 years ago.
I'm glad I bought new over used.
The Cab is one of the most enjoyable features other than the backhoe and Grapple I could have ever added.
I'm so very lucky to have made the right choice for me... and at the right time as well! Prices have soared over the last two years, 20% or more over pre-pandemic rates. I doubt they will ever come back down.