</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I'm curious if you looked at any other choices when you decided on the Wallenstein?
I've been trying to decide between the BX40 and the Bearcat 70554 as the best match for a Kubota BX2350. Don't think I need the hydraulic feed, but the Bearcat's shredder seems like it would be useful and it appears to have a bit more chipping capacity. Then again, the BX40 includes the high discharge, so it's a tradeoff between two fine machines.
Also, mind sharing where you picked up your Wallenstein and price paid? Thanks for helping out a newbie. )</font>
I went with the 70554. The dealer were I bought my MF 1540 sold me the 70544 for under $2600. Didn't look into the BX40 and the Kubota dealer was asking ~$3200 for the 6" Wallenstein.
The 70554 will grab a piece of wood and pull it in and chew up, no feeding required. You can't stop it when it starts on a piece. Had a fresh cut tree 20 ft plus in length and ~5 inches around at the base. Fed it in and it would chip 5 to 6 foot then stall out the tractor. Happened about 3 times before the green wood was narrow enough for it to continue to the end.
The shredder hopper has very stiff bristles. When I throw a handful of twigs on top they need to be pushed through the bristles. When I use a small stick to push anything built up through the brushes the stick gets pulled out of my hand so quick it hurts more then when the
chipper grabs onto a limb. Dealer said the bristles would loosen up with time.
Over all I'm very happy with the 70554's
chipper, less then thrilled with the shredder portion. I would suggest, if at all possible, you try the machine yourself before purchase.