Hi All,
Just to chime in for a second here if I may. Excellent question concerning the articulation and its reliability. Its one that we get often, and understandibly so.
We have been selling articulated machine since the early 90s, and have had no issue with them at all. Of course they need to be maintained and cleaned periodically, but with the advantages it gives Lamtrac machines in terms of ground pressure and operator comfort, it is well worth it. The newer model machines, LTR8290Q and LTR8400Q, have self lubricating bushings so that even greater reduces the maintenance of the articulation.