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Even if they don't let you dig you can still see how much room you have in the operator station. How does the hydro feel smooth, notchy, turning radius, can you reach the loader lever ok with out reaching for it? How does the 3pt hitch work? Loader speed of operation. Take the loader on and off. How easy is it? Put it in high range rev the throttle and take off and see how the engine handles the load. Does it bog? Can you reach all the controls easily. Chech to make sure the dealer has all common service items in stock. If you needed a part whats the time line to get a part. Dealer reputation. The machine will only as good as the CO/dealer behind it. It will not be an easy decision but a test drive will atleast give you a direction. Yuo will get all kinds of opinions on the board but you are the one that has to use the machine. That is why I think seat time is the best. A good salesman for any brand will recognize that. Hope that helps alittle.