1430 vs 2430

[yooperdave]

Can someone explain the major differences between the 1430 and the 2430?

Does the 2430 have a higher center of gravity which would make it easier to tip than the 1430?

Is the major reason for buying the 2430 over the 1430 is for the available back hoe option?

Is the 2430 as agile for mowing as the 1430?

Has anyone taken advantage of the $1,000 discount for the diesel powered units?

Thanks

Yooper Dave

 

[blackwell]

I"ll take a stab at it;
The 1430 is as you suggest lower profile, top speed of 10 mph, seat attached to front frame section, lift height of 6' and 1200#, better visibality and stability for mowing, and other operations requiring the operator to be close to the attachment.
The 2430 lifts 8' high with 1200# lift capicity, the seat is attached to the rear frame half which places the operator a greator distance from the front attachment, but only spin the seat 180 degrees to operate the backhoe, which can also be removed in about 30 seconds. Sitting on the rear frame does allow the operator to see the entire machine when traveling forward, however sitting higher. The top speed is 8 mph, with more torque on the wheel motors, also the 2430 weighs more but has a shorter wheel base thus turning slightly shorter than the 1430.
The 2430 will handle all the attachments as well as the 1430, but (due to stability) check the grades for mowing, ask how high do you need to lift, do you need a full backhoe or will a mini-hoe do. We use a 1430 and 2445 and they both work well.
As of now we have not taken advantage of the $1000 discount, but we are looking at a 1460 to use in hardscaping.
I wonder if Power Trac will be forced to raise prices due to steel prices jumping, already 25 to 30% since 1-1-04. There is a lot of steel in PT's. I think we will buy sooner rather than latter.