I'm getting ready to purchase a Carlton4012 or a Vermeer 352. Both are 35 hp and are 4 wheel drive. The Carlton has a remote and a blade. The Vermeer has local support. Has anyone used both of these? I realize that having Vermeer locally is a big plus, but Carlton is a few hours away and their machines seem better built. Also I have read that the remote is a game changer. Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Carlton 4012 or Vermeer 352
- Thread starter Stumpsurf
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Cupocoffee
ArboristSite Member
I owned a Vermeer 352 for several years. When I sold it, it had less than 500 hours. A month or two later the owner told me the Daihatsu diesel engine blew. It was a good machine but it is very, very, very slow going from one stump to another or even from your trailer to your first stump. I stepped up to a Carlton SP7015. There is absolutely no comparison between those two machines. I have never used a Carlton 4012 so can't make a comment on that. I had several issues with my SP7015 when it was new and it would have been nice to be able to take it to a local dealer. I had to learn to be a Carlton mechanic. I will NEVER EVER operate another stump grinder that does not have remote control. It took me about twenty five hours to get proficient with the remote but you will absolutely love it once you get used to it. I don't know how fast the Carlton 4015 moves but it has to be faster than a Vermeer 352. The blade is a huge plus. Both machines have about a 40" swing so you will have to set up on a stump several times on large stumps. The blade will be very handy to help move chips when needed. I normally do a rough coverup of the hole with the blade when I am finished grinding. Normally, I just pull forward through the hole and drag chips into the hole. On really big stumps I have to turn the grinder around and push the chips into the hole. Good luck on your decision. Do a search for Old Man Grinder on this forum. He has a Bandit which is a brand you might find locally with a local dealer network.
I agree with the above statement about the 352. Stay away from the Daihatsu as it's a disposable diesel engine. If you can, get a 33hp Kubota on a SP4012 as the gas engines don't seem to last as long as a diesel.
Hope this helps!
Dave
Global Equipment Exporters
770-420-6400
Hope this helps!
Dave
Global Equipment Exporters
770-420-6400
Go the cordless remote, safer, quicker, stand on the upwind side to avoid dust, unload / load with ease etc etc
My SP4012, 33hp diesel Kubota has done huge stumps, eg 3m x 2m, just takes longer. Very quick between stumps @ walking pace or
whatever you set ground speed at.
To need 4x4 you must work in extremely steep or boggy wet country as the 2wd with duals goes anywhere I would want to work.
Never used Vermeer, sorry can't help there.
My SP4012, 33hp diesel Kubota has done huge stumps, eg 3m x 2m, just takes longer. Very quick between stumps @ walking pace or
whatever you set ground speed at.
To need 4x4 you must work in extremely steep or boggy wet country as the 2wd with duals goes anywhere I would want to work.
Never used Vermeer, sorry can't help there.
