NCman
Well-Known Member
Hey all,
I purchased a backhoe per this forums advice a few years ago and it was one of my better decisions. It saved me a 30k grading/Rd. building bill
Backhoe I got is still going strong.
Now I'm looking at the different options on a Dozer. What I'll be using it for is grading a home site, regrading logging rds., Cutting in some new 10' wide roads on property. The homesite is undisturbed ground on a 15-20 degree slope. I just need to level it meaning I will need to remove about 3-5 ' of dirt on high side. Area is about 60' x 40'.
The size and models I've been looking at are the JD 450/550 and recently the komatsu D38P. After some reading it seems the JD's are great machines but are hard to work on for a novice. I've also read that a transmission job is 10k and difficult.
As far as the komatsu...I've read they are good machines that are easier to work on. The clutches are easy to access, trans is separate from engine via driveshaft and so on.( I did read that this komatsu is just a dresser...would a different model komatsu be a better choice?
There is a JD 550B available with rebuilt engine(40hrs), new injector pump,new radiator, new injectors,90percent undercarriage for 15k but isn't that kinda high?
Any suggestions on a serviceable machine for a novice with do it yourself abilities?
I am not brand oriented.
Like most everyone, I'm just looking for a reliable small dozer that is designed to be a little more user friendly. Is there such a machine or are they all designed to make owners have to take to a pro?
Thanks
I purchased a backhoe per this forums advice a few years ago and it was one of my better decisions. It saved me a 30k grading/Rd. building bill
Backhoe I got is still going strong.
Now I'm looking at the different options on a Dozer. What I'll be using it for is grading a home site, regrading logging rds., Cutting in some new 10' wide roads on property. The homesite is undisturbed ground on a 15-20 degree slope. I just need to level it meaning I will need to remove about 3-5 ' of dirt on high side. Area is about 60' x 40'.
The size and models I've been looking at are the JD 450/550 and recently the komatsu D38P. After some reading it seems the JD's are great machines but are hard to work on for a novice. I've also read that a transmission job is 10k and difficult.
As far as the komatsu...I've read they are good machines that are easier to work on. The clutches are easy to access, trans is separate from engine via driveshaft and so on.( I did read that this komatsu is just a dresser...would a different model komatsu be a better choice?
There is a JD 550B available with rebuilt engine(40hrs), new injector pump,new radiator, new injectors,90percent undercarriage for 15k but isn't that kinda high?
Any suggestions on a serviceable machine for a novice with do it yourself abilities?
I am not brand oriented.
Like most everyone, I'm just looking for a reliable small dozer that is designed to be a little more user friendly. Is there such a machine or are they all designed to make owners have to take to a pro?
Thanks
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