I have had my L-45 for a little over a year now and have put 240hrs on it. I love that thing it will do a lot for its size. There have been several times when I have been surprised at the power and functionality of it. The hydro Thumb is worth every penny. I just did a brush job with it and grapple that i put on the front and run it with the third function valve. It worked great . It had no problems pushing the brush into piles and then taking a bite at a time and hauling it off. When I first got it, I built a rock wall with it and moved very large flat stones around with ease. Just wanted to let you know I am very happy with mine.