Well, this is something Dad and I have been wanting forever. It looks like this year or next, we may finally get the cash (and the ok from Mom) to buy a CTL. It will be used mostly for tree work, like picking up logs, dragging brush (with an aftermarket grapple), lifting and moving trees, pallets, etc. So really, the only thing we would need for hydro flow is the grapple. Now, I'm looking for some opinions on a few we have used/seen/chosen. 1. A CAT 247B or 257B 2. A Takeuchi TL130 3. An ASV SR-70 or SR-80 I've heard nothing but good things really about Tak, but I really like ASV because of the low ground pressure and their ability to work on slopes and hilly terrain, and through the mud. Where we work, low ground pressure is important (especially at the very, very large farms and houses) along with being able to work on hills. The CAT though, we have basically used and rented for at least 8 years, and have nothing but good things to say about them. So we're basically stuck in the middle here on what to buy! Any help appreciated/wanted. Thanks!
The ASV machines that you list offer more lifting capcity and lift height than either the CAT or Takeuchi. They will also cost more because they are larger, come standard with high flow, more horsepower(the 70 and the TL130 are close), and the SR80 has standard two speed. All of them have their positives and negatives. The SR80 will offer you the best performance on slopes and offer the best/lowest ground pressure and the most rated operating capacity (just over 3000lbs). The two CAT machines are lighter and narrower than the SR80(same width as the SR70). The TL130 is narrower over the tracks-just over 62" but they sell them with a 67" bucket so essentially they are the same width as the 247/257 and the SR70. I would recommend that you demo all of them in the application that you plan on doing and making a determination based on which one will fit your needs and pocketbook the best. Good luck.
Thanks. It will probably be the SR70. We have a 10,000lb trailer, and Dad likes to have a smaller machine, so the SR70 will probably fit the bill the best. If not, any ideas on an ASV below the SR70 that is still rated for at least 2,000lbs. Thanks
The PT60 is the next one down. 1900lbs ROC, 11.5mph, 66" wide, weighs about 500lbs less than the 247B. I don't own one but it would be a step up from my RC50. I've demoed one and they are extremely quick and nimble, plenty of grunt for digging too.
A new Holland C175 is also a great machine very well balanced in steep country, lovely to operate, great on fuel, awesome A/C, I love mine Cheers John
you have nothing but good things to say about CAT because you have only rented and never had the "joys" of owning one and talking to a dealer...TAK makes a great machine, i love our 130 but they don't like the woods so much, of the three the TAK will pop a track much more easily...as far as ASV goes i have never run one so i wont comment