I thought I mentioned but the total filled area which I estimated to be a 30ft long plug would be about 250yds. However, I have explained to the customer that it is not needed to make the entire repair from clay, just the good bit where water must be sealed up. However, I have mentioned the importance of doing the repair in lifts with compaction. If it leaks and does not seal up good quickly, it could leak.
The travel distance is about 800ft and I think I have decided to either rent or hire a large CTL, though I have not figured out how the heck you "find" the magic person that has what you need.
I have quoted up another guy with a track loader and I think there are too many variables on this one that could make this expensive only for me. I know the CTL will have no issues with the terrain, and if they do, I can save them with the hoe. If the hoe has issues, we should not be there, so getting the right weather is just important.