LumberjackRugby
New Member
Been the tree business for awhile and about to purchase some heavy machinery. Is a Skid Steer/Bobcat better or worse then using a Mini Excavator for everyday tree work? What attachments for the bobcat work best?
Skid Steer vs. Mini Excavator
- Thread starter LumberjackRugby
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smokey01
ArboristSite Operative
I should know better than talk about a skid steer on this site but I would recommend two attachments for the skid steer.
This backhoe is less expensive and so easy to operate while sitting in the cab.
http://www.quickattach.com/shop-by-department/attachment/backhoes/products/ez-dig/
and the grapple.......I prefer the one without the solid bottom for picking up the loose stuff without taking dirt with it.
http://www.quickattach.com/shop-by-department/attachment/grapples/products/eagle-talon/
If you can, buy one on tracks, I have strap on tracks but they still tear up lawns too much.
I won't say more or I'll get banned again.
Richard
newsawtooth
ArboristSite Operative
In the woods, I use a Mini Ex to skid material and feed the chipper. The size is better suited for moving bigger pieces and easier to manipulate material with. In town a mini skid steer is preferable because it is a smaller platform and more versatile with buckets and forks.
Smokey, how's tricks? You hiring for your other gig? I'll carry your log books.
2treeornot2tree
Dont cry, just do it
Are you asking about a mini excavator, or a mini skid loader? I have never heard someone using a mini excavator for tree work.
This is a mini excavator:
As far a attachments you can go with. Its all in what you want. Both of the following attachments can be used on mini and full size skid loaders.
You can get a root grapple, like this one
or one like a ryans grapple like this:
I have a toro dingo 425, and also a Cat 236 skid loader. I have used both of them on tree jobs. I use the Dingo alot more. Its like having another guy or two helping.
2treeornot2tree
Dont cry, just do it
I dont know why anyone would want a backhoe attachment like that. I like to be able to see what i am digging. There is no way you can see what your digging all the time with that setup, plus i bet it is very ineficent.
smokey01
ArboristSite Operative
Fair enough.
I will just add that for tree work it needs the thumb attachment.
EchoShindaiwaMakitaDolmar
ArboristSite Operative
Avoid chynese OEM equipment- parts and such can/may be a real hassle to get.
A almost 12 year old thread resurrected......
