MechMaxx Stump Grinders or Other Homeowner Stump Grinders

[StihlsawuserMS361]

Apologies in advance as this may not be the correct forum. I, like many have an EAB problem with ash dying. Was given a quote to grind 14 close cut ash tree stumps for about $1400. This is about 1/2 of the total trees, with about another couple dozen trees to follow in a 2+ acre site. Rather than pay close to 3K when complete, I'm looking at buying a gas-powered stump grinder.
I've looked at DR, reviews aren't the best. Or MaxxMech, which reviews seem better and less expensive. I would probably sell the grinder when done.
Anyone have any experience with either? Or suggestions? MechMaxx also has a 3pt tractor attachment, FWIW. Local Rent-All stores only have a smaller option to use.
Thanks!

 

[PP4218]

After looking at the MechMaxx, it sure seems like a lot of work since the grinding head is manually moved. I don't think a professional firm would want that after you are done with it. Too labor intensive.

Can you not just burn the stumps?

 

[StihlsawuserMS361]

Good thinking 4218. I thought of that, but the total will be over 50. Thought of digging them u. p with the backhoe, huge mess on a section of land that only gets mowed 3X a year. I just want to get them flush to miss the mower blades. I suppose I could cut them closer to the ground with the 361 or 500I, but that will be a lot of chain sharpenings.

 

[ElevatorGuy]

I wish I had bought the woodland Mills stump grinder for my tractor originally. For what I’ve paid in stump grinding over the last 6 years since I purchased my tractor it would paid for itself by now. I wouldn’t waste your time with the little machines though.

I would look at a used sc252 unit from Vermeer if you’re serious about it. Then sell it after you’re done. I know a guy who did something similar with an older tow behind chipper. It had the ford inline 6 motor. It was older but worked. He cleared land and chipped tops for 2 years on his timeframe then sold the machine for what he had into it.

 

[StihlsawuserMS361]

Thanks Elevator. I've been tossing many around. Our local rental place has a small one, I'd probably get tired of that in a hurry. With about 25-30 to do, and I was quoted about 100 per stump, it adds up fast. These stumps I have are close cut to the ground, maybe 8-12" in diameter.
Seeing that this is in a seldom mowed, about 3 times a year, I may just dig around them a little then cut to the surface with my 361. Will take some sharpening, but will save some money though.
I dunno, thanks again!

 

[ElevatorGuy]

Our local place rents a 25 hp version and that takes forever on large oak stumps. I rented it twice and won’t again. Most recently I cashed in when the grinder guy I’ve used several times was working at a neighbors house. I asked him for a price on 4 good size white oak stumps and 6 small stumps. $200 cash, in and out in less than an hour.

 

[StihlsawuserMS361]

Pretty good HP size. My local rents one that has to be less than 10 HP. The one who quoted me did reduce the price a bit when I offered straight cash too.

After the snow leaves, I'll reassess the stumps. I was thinking also maybe a sacrificial piece of 1/2" plywood to rest the saw on after digging down a bit to keep it out of the dirt etc..