Chipper PTO Chippers - WoodPro AVP 30QP3 vs. BearCat 74554

[MadDog]

I have fairly large amounts of woods that need to be cleared of brush, scrub trees and saplings, etc. and am thinking of getting a PTO-driven chipper or chipper/shredder for my B7800 (30hp engine, 22hp PTO). Up to now I have used a 5hp Troy-Bilt and for what I have in mind, it just isn't equal to the size of the project nor will it be time efficient. I have narrowed the choices preliminarily down to the above models based on specs, weight and price.

The WoodPro handles all kinds of debris (both chipping and shredding), chips up to 6" and is self-feeding (verticle hopper - feeds from above). The BearCat handles up to 5", chipping only, and has hydraulic feed and horizontal hopper. My B7800 has adequate PTO power for either.

Anyone have, or have used, either of these? Quality? Durability? Safety and ease of use? I'd sure be grateful for any experience or comments prior to pulling the trigger on this.

[AndyMA]

Just curious why you didn't consider the Valby 160? What are the prices on the models you are considering. I have run Valby chippers for about 15 years with no problems. Valby

Andy

[MadDog]

Didn't consider Valby because I didn't know anything about them. However, I've checked it out now. Thanks for the link. Puts another player into the mix. Price is about same as the WoodPro...

[Rip]

I have a similar BearCat chipper powered by a 20 HP Honda with out hyd feed that seems very well built and works well.

If you have long-dead pine limbs, you will want the hyd feeder for sure. If you are dealing with live pine or other types of limbs and little stuff and leaves, the shredder type will be better.

Generally the larger and heavier the flywheel is, the better. It will bog down less, but if it does, it takes longer to build speed back up again. Just don't feed it too fast.

Rip

[NHSawyer]

MadDog,
I recently bought a used Bearcat 74554. I haven't used it yet but when the previous owner demostrated it to me it worked great. The hydraulic feed was something I thought was worth the price if your doing lots of chipping.
With the size tractor you have you may also want to keep in mind the weight of these machines. The Bearcat goes about 900 lbs.

[MadDog]

Thanks, NH. They're both about the same on weight; about 950#. I should be OK on that as my 3ph lift spec is 1655# at liftpoint and 1300# 24" behind.

I am sure the BearCat will do the job. I sure would like to get some feedback on the WoodPro, since the disk is even heavier than the BearCat and it claims to be able to shred all kinds of vegetation as well as chip up to 6" diam.

Unfortunately, no one seems to have any experience with it. [img]/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]

[tanderbagy]

MadDog, Did you ever decide on a chipper? I am looking at the same woodpro chipper and I have the exact same tractor. Would love to know what your experience was.

[murphy1244]

His last post was 6 years ago..

[tanderbagy]

I realize that, but it can't hurt to try. At least by now he would have a lot of experience with whatever he chose.LoL

[murphy1244]

I realize that, but it can't hurt to try. At least by now he would have a lot of experience with whatever he chose.LoL

Or he fell into it..