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Iowa | 1) They are expensive to maintain. How could not having a few flat tires "pay for the tracks"? 10 flats--say $25 per flat, = $250. Plus lost time--usually no big deal. Keep a spare around if lost time is a big item for you. Rebuild a track system eventually= $5000++.
2) They don't like paved surfaces and wear rapidly. Yes, the operator has a great deal to do with it, but the fact remains.
3) If you are in a cold climate and don't have a heated shed, be prepared for a machine disabled by freezing up. This is a significant problem
4) If you work in mud/slop, they will do a superior job over wheels, but be prepared for LOTS of time spent washing out undercarriage. Cat/ASV's are better than most but you still have to do it.
Advantages
1) Superior flotation
2) Fabulous for grading/dirtwork using lasers. They don't move up and down like a wheeled machine
3) No flat tires
4) A similar-sized tracked machine will out-lift a wheeled machine by a significant amount
5) Maintenance gives you something to do just about anytime you like. There is always work that can be done to keep track system in top shape
6) Maintenance helps you out on paying less income tax. BEND OVER!!!
I have both. I keep the tracked machine for grading--for which it can't be beat!! | |
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One more question on skid steers
