Hi.......
You sound like a man with much experience and many stories !!!
I have looked at Austin-Western graders...both Pacer and Super models. Like the 4x4 and 6x6 AWD and AWS systems, but turning radii are still huge without articulation and parts are a problem...given their age. Have looked at Champions and Galions and other graders, but eventually decided that the Deere 570-B is the best bet for me....given size, capabilities and prices...and parts sources. Transmission parts are the big problem for them though; the majority of them are over 30 years old now. Many people have suggested that six-wheel drive models [Volvo and Galion/Dresser, for example] are essential here, but I think that chains and a differential lock would do it, as I face no serious inclines on the road. The Deere 772-A is a six-wheel drive machine, but also huge.
There are only about ten 570-Bs for sale in the entire country and many of them are far from me. Given the blade float capability on 570-As, I can consider that model now too, but the story is the same...far from me or trash. And prices have been going up...along with everything else. Thank you for the suggestions about need for turbocharged engines and block heaters. Definitely both a must in my area around 8,000 feet elevation. Found a 670-A near me this summer, but it was sold before I could make an offer. And it was huge compared to a 570-A as well. Like to have oil analyses on machines with more than 10,000 hours to assess condition too.
Thanks again....take care !!