Buying a new Branson

[ning]

I have a 3720h, and use it for "hobby" purposes - a bit of this and that, some backhoe, mostly loader, some posthole.. I'm usually around 1700 rpm unless there going gets tough. I have a short steep hill that I run it at 2500 but that's under a minute. 150 hours so far, not a peep from the dpf light; we'll see if that changes; if there's signs of an impending clog I'll probably start running it at a higher rpm, but the engine starts to clatter a lot more at 2k.

I'd prefer to keep the dpfbecause I can barely smell the exhaust even when I start it up in its "garage" (shipping container)!

 

[Cougsfan]

I think a Piranha bar is something you only want to put on when you really need it. They are too aggressive for most things but really handy when you need them. They aren't that hard to put on and take off. I often use my bucket to smooth out rough spots by dragging the FEL bucket tilted down, and going backwards over gravel or dirt when my rear blade isn't installed (and often when the blade is installed as it can be easier for small spots). You sure wouldn't want it on when and if you do that.

 

[Branson Bob]

Downsides: if you leave the bucket up and walk into it you'll be sorry. If you accidentally drop the bucket when crossing your driveway it'll take a much larger gouge out of the driveway. I take it off when I'm moving built up leaves off the paved road so it does not dig in to high spots in the pavement and rip out pieces.

OTOH it improves the digging abilities and is much better than a regular bucket at pulling up brush. It should extend the life of the bucket edge as it's taking the wear.

I think a Piranha bar is something you only want to put on when you really need it. They are too aggressive for most things but really handy when you need them. They aren't that hard to put on and take off. I often use my bucket to smooth out rough spots by dragging the FEL bucket tilted down, and going backwards over gravel or dirt when my rear blade isn't installed (and often when the blade is installed as it can be easier for small spots). You sure wouldn't want it on when and if you do that.

Thanks fellas.