You do realize that is almost 2800 cubic yards of material that's compacted they way it is in the hill it will end up about 30% more once you dig it out.I've probably mislead about cutting down a hill (could mean anything). It's really just taking down the hilltop, about 5ft deep and 100ft x 150ft.
I've been looking around and I see the big old machines FS; the idea of them is great - 30K+ pounds, drop the blade and keep going no matter what. But every part of owning it becomes a bigger and more expensive job. Plus this is hilltop and maneuverability is important.
Maybe a middle ground. 20K pound or so. like this? https://nashville.craigslist.org/hvo/d/dozer-d5-cat/6391236094.html
I planned to rent a dozer but have determined the cost will be too high for the large projects I have planned. I need to cut down a hill to create more flat land, remove a bunch of trees (also have a Case 580B to help with roots), grade some very rocky earth, cut in a driveway. Local Sunbelt quoted me about $2,200 delivered w/tax for a week for a JD 650J (real nice machines, so I've heard). With my work interfering with progress I may need it for a month. No good. So, if I wanted to buy a used dozer and take a more time with it, what should I get for less than $15K (closer to $10K preferred) what should I get? I understand whatever I buy will may need a few thousand dollars in parts/repairs over the year I plan to keep it (may keep it longer if it proves as useful as my backhoe).
My initial searching has lead me toward a Case 450C (bumper pull at only 12-13K pounds is a plus). Prices are reasonable and I have a large local dealer that has been good with 580B parts. I changed the brakes, replaced ring gear, replaced axle bearing, removed cylinders and hoses on the 580B. So I have some ability with HE. I really need help with what brands/models are reliable, and what to look and listen for when testing (some very specific details would be great). I would prefer to take someone with me who knows these things in and out, but I don't have that kind of support.
For instance: https://bgky.craigslist.org/hvo/d/case-450c-dozer/6344639237.html
Thanks for your help. Just trying to not make a bad buy.
You do realize that is almost 2800 cubic yards of material that's compacted they way it is in the hill it will end up about 30% more once you dig it out.
schmiddr2, I'm in the same situation, but I'm going to do Ritchie Bros auctions and do a good prebuy, history from manufacturer etc. Go look at auction results. In my experience a lot of equipment dealers source and resell from auctions. Even though I'm green on owning a dozer, I've hauled heavy and own trucks for a long time and seen all types of earth moving pieces and what they look and feel like. When you own, you must think of repairs and for me, I'll try to find one that's had some of the major items done with low hours after repair.
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Seems like a good plan. I've never really looked into auctions as I assumed I would be bidding against; dealers, shade tree mechanics, contractors, etc. and not really end up with such an amazing deal as I would hope for at auction.
Also, there is no way I could go to an auction and come home with something in my designated budget.