Need Track Skid Steer suggestions and advice

[flienlow]

It is becoming more and more apparent that we will need a skid steer style machine. However, not sure what to buy? Currently looking at an SLV75, but for no other reason that I am familiar with Kubota products as I have a u25 mini and bx tractor. Aside from K, we have bobcat, CAT, Case, and JD local to my area. For machine size I need equivalent of an SLV75. I have about 15min total time on one of these machines and it was an SLV95 so I am very green at what to look for. Seeking suggestion from those that may know what I should be looking for. For me this would be a very Large Purchase and I dont want to make a mistake here. We do light material handling and a lot drive type grading.

Thank you in advance.

 

[Rustyiron]

It seems the Kubota SS & CTL's are being well received, at least from what I read on Heavy Equipment Forums
But overall it's just like tractors & trucks when it comes to brand loyalty. I've had a Case, JD, New Holland and Gehl, all wheel machines and of the "pre emission" era and I still have the Gehl. Are you looking at new?

 

[jeff9366]

VIDEO: Kubota SVL9-2 Compact Track Loader Advantage Video - YouTube

 

[atsah]

NH LS170, 180 etc are well used around here on big dairy farms.. Case are mostly used here in the paving industry. All the machines you mention are good machines but some have advantages over others. I know a few people here that know a lot about them and own them, I'm sure they will come in at some point..

 

[majorwager]

The kubota video is a little biased, you'd expect that, correct. There have been major improvements accross the board from all the major manufacturers in recent years. Track machines are gaining popularity. It still seems bobcat is the torchbearer most attempt to match
There are two types of lift systems w/ skidsteers, familiarize yourself w/ those.

Personal favorite is bobcat 770 AWS. Yes front and rear wheels turn, minimizes damage to turf surfaces. It can also skidsteer, controlled by switch.
Pilot joysticks provide effortless control. Everything is digital. Visibility is good for a SS.
Enclosed cab is pressurized, electronic controls for attachment allow many simultaneous hydraulic functions
92hp, and NO DPF. Very wide stance w/ 15 inch wide turf or r-4 tires, machine width about 84 inches, very stable machine. High flow hydraulics, air ride seats, expansive cabs, lots of great but expensive features.

The other machine to like is the JCB, they make the SS for volvo as well. Single boom lift arm and it is available in telescoping version, very cool. Super reach to load trucks !!!
Also JCB entry is through a side door, unique to industry. No climbing over front attachment for entry.

 

[Tomtint]

I have a at 246 that I put a full Loegering track undercarriage on. ..it completely changed the capability of the machine for the better. The Cat has been a reliable unit and other than the heater being utterly useless in the winter.. I have no real complaints. I had considered a Kubota skid a couple years back and like the door that flips up instead of out..also like the ergonomics inside better than the Cat. Visability was also better than the Cat. If I were to buy another Skid, I would seriously consider the Bota..but it would have to be a high flow..

 

[flienlow]

I have a at 246 that I put a full Loegering track undercarriage on. ..it completely changed the capability of the machine for the better. The Cat has been a reliable unit and other than the heater being utterly useless in the winter.. I have no real complaints. I had considered a Kubota skid a couple years back and like the door that flips up instead of out..also like the ergonomics inside better than the Cat. Visability was also better than the Cat. If I were to buy another Skid, I would seriously consider the Bota..but it would have to be a high flow..

how does Highflow work? why do you use it and need it?

 

[majorwager]

Many implements driven by hydraulic motor are more productive using a higher oil flow. Asphalt planers and snow blowers are two examples.

Many rotary mowers and forestry mulchers are also aided by a higher gpm flow.

 

[tradosaurus]

I am settling on a New Holland C232 with 74 hp. The reason being is that with a high flow hydraulics I can still operate a heavy duty Ground Shark BS72GSE.

The 74 hp also keeps DEF off the machine. The Kubota 74 hp version was about 9 gpm less with high flow hydraulics.

 

[SkeeterFood]

One other consideration to add to your thinking is, do you want a full-time tracked loader, or a wheeled loader with additional tracks?

This video has some good thoughts on the subject: