I have been reading this forum for a couple of weeks now, during my process of deciding what tractor to purchase, and I have finally decided to make my first posting. (Incidentally, It was in no small part because of this discussion group that I decided to order a Century C42L with the 50hl loader and 3rd function hydraulics.)
My first question is this: is there anything extra to be gained (other than the obvious horsepower) from the C47L over the C42L? I am going to be maintaining a 1/4 mile gravel driveway and keeping about 40 acres of woods cleaned up. Second, it appears that the Branson prices are a little better than Century's; but, I do like the 50hl loader. Is there some reason this loader can't be ordered and put on a Branson product (especially if the dealer has a foot in both worlds)? And does the Branson line of loaders have the skid steer quick attach mounting design available for purchase? Lastly, what are the differing opinions on the two sizes of backhoes? One dealer suggested that the 76 model was a better mate to the Century L series, as the 86 was a little on the big side (e.g. potential sway or tipping hazard maybe?).
The bottom line is that I don't want to make this much of an investment (low $18k for the C42L and 50h with 3rd valve), without making sure I am not under-buying my source of power.
Thanks, in advance, for your input.
My first question is this: is there anything extra to be gained (other than the obvious horsepower) from the C47L over the C42L? I am going to be maintaining a 1/4 mile gravel driveway and keeping about 40 acres of woods cleaned up. Second, it appears that the Branson prices are a little better than Century's; but, I do like the 50hl loader. Is there some reason this loader can't be ordered and put on a Branson product (especially if the dealer has a foot in both worlds)? And does the Branson line of loaders have the skid steer quick attach mounting design available for purchase? Lastly, what are the differing opinions on the two sizes of backhoes? One dealer suggested that the 76 model was a better mate to the Century L series, as the 86 was a little on the big side (e.g. potential sway or tipping hazard maybe?).
The bottom line is that I don't want to make this much of an investment (low $18k for the C42L and 50h with 3rd valve), without making sure I am not under-buying my source of power.
Thanks, in advance, for your input.