Which Track loader to choose?

[turfguy1969]

I am looking for input on track loaders. I currently have an RC-60 ASV, and will be upgrading. We are comparing the ASV SR-70, the John Deere CT332, and the Cat 287B. If anyone has any input, I would appreciate it.

Dave in Buffalo NY

 

[dirtworksequip]

I can give you info on the CAT 287 & 287B. I currently have one of each and I also had a CAT 277. I really can't compare them to the other machines you are looking at,but ask me anything about the CAT's and I'll try and answer your questions.

Sincerely,
Dirt

 

[plowrup]

I think the Cat has some nice features, primarily in the Control area and the design ideas for the Tracks (which are ASV).

The Track system rides nicely, but is definitely a higher maintenance item than the other Brands. I would have the Dealers bring out all of the units and try them side-by-side-if the Dealer is reluctant, I would mark them off my list.

We are a Deere Dealer and have sold many CT's-no problems to date, and it appears to be very durable, although they have only been out a little over a Year, so we'll see. I don't know how long you can wait, but Deere is coming out with piloted Controls soon-

 

[NHDealer]

I think the Cat has some nice features, primarily in the Control area and the design ideas for the Tracks (which are ASV).

The Track system rides nicely, but is definitely a higher maintenance item than the other Brands. I would have the Dealers bring out all of the units and try them side-by-side-if the Dealer is reluctant, I would mark them off my list.

We are a Deere Dealer and have sold many CT's-no problems to date, and it appears to be very durable, although they have only been out a little over a Year, so we'll see. I don't know how long you can wait, but Deere is coming out with piloted Controls soon-

Will these pilot controls be elec/hyd or hyd/hyd? How soon?
Thanks

 

[40Kchicks]

I have never used the class of loader you are looking at but I do have CAT 216 skid steer which shares some features. It has been a wonderful machine in all aspects especially in the ease of control. If I was looking at one of those machines I would test them all but my bias would be toward the CAT.

Eric

 

[Tags]

I had a chance to run a Deere 332 and power wise it was quite impressive, visibility was great, and I liked the "excavator style" front window, but that was it. Otherwise it was very loud, has the "old style" hand and foot controlls, was awkward to climb in and out of, and the cab didn't seem that big. I did hear that the pilot controlls were not going to be available until next January. I do believe that when Deere does get their pilot controlls worked out, they will probably release the next "version" of their track machine so i would think that the cab and noise issues would get addressed also. It does seem that Deere is always a little late to the party with their equipment but when they get there, their stuff is usually the nicest.

I have a 287B and I am spoiled by the controlls, I think they are the best ones available right now. I like the accelerator pedal and the feel of the pilot controlls, and the servicibility of the engine is fantastic, other companies are starting to follow suit. I know Komatsu and New Holland both have a very similar controll set up as the Cat. Don't get me wrong either....the Cat has it's issues too...it needs more bucket breakout force and the undercarriage NEEDS more attention paid to it, especially in muddy conditions if you want it to last a long time, and the tracks are a PIA to adjust and work on. This of course, is all just my opinion.

 

[rutwad]

I think the Cat has some nice features, primarily in the Control area and the design ideas for the Tracks (which are ASV).

The Track system rides nicely, but is definitely a higher maintenance item than the other Brands. I would have the Dealers bring out all of the units and try them side-by-side-if the Dealer is reluctant, I would mark them off my list.

We are a Deere Dealer

At first I found it odd that you sorta downed the ASV tracks, but then I realized why. You are a Deere Dealer.

In your opinion, what makes the ASV tracks "definitely a higher maintenance item"?


Dave in NY, you are doing right by researching and asking opinions on an open forum. Please get as much info about the machines as you can before talking to a salesman/dealer. Every one of them will say they have the best and throw you the sales BS. Make sure you are an informed buyer and go prepared.

 

[rutwad]

AND consider what you think is best and it's price. Lots of people swear that the dealerships make a big difference after the sale, but you don't know how they may change "after the sale". You are number one priority for a salesman trying to make commission, but later when you have problems you will be number 2 compared to the other sale he is trying to make on his new number one. I am not discreditting dealers, but service after the sale never seem to be as important as service before the sale.

 

[Tags]

At first I found it odd that you sorta downed the ASV tracks, but then I realized why. You are a Deere Dealer.

In your opinion, what makes the ASV tracks "definitely a higher maintenance item"?

Alot of people down the ASV style tracks because they are what they are....that is a rubber on rubber system, introduce some 11/4" crushed stone or very sharp rock, some mud packed in the track system and WHAM, chunks gallore! I personally think it is a good system, has a bit of suspension (via tor-flex axels), puts lots of track surface on the ground, and provides low ground pressure. It is a royal PIA to clear the tracks completely of mud though, which makes for an interesting result after sitting for the night in 10 degree weather. The ASV system is not for everyone, it requires thourough cleaning everyday and the adjustment procedure is...well... a procedure to put it nicely, although I have 600hrs on my 287B and have only had to adjust em' once. The other companies track systems are basically a modified mini excavator undercarriage and WILL take more abuse but won't give you the ride quality or the low ground pressure.

 

[rutwad]

Tags- you are right. Rocks and gravel is not a place for rubber on rubber. What about other rubber tracked machines in rocks, how do they hold up?

I have over 200 hrs on my rc100 with no track adjustment yet. And as you stated, ride quality is good and it offers low ground pressure. The cleat design does not offer much traction, but I have never been on another tracked machine to compare.