</font><font color="blue" class="small">( You know, I'm not too familiar with the power and performance of a 71 model. I actually have never seen one up front I don't think, I'm trying to remember if I saw one at the local Kubota dealership but at any rate, it probably can dig that trench you need dug. The tree sizes might be a little large for the unit but again I'm not sure. Actually if they're already cut it should do fine, you can get a hyd. thumb for the kx71-3. The kx91-3 is another good size machine, a nice middle size from the 41 to the 121.
Blake
WA )</font>
Well, I took the plunge a few hours ago and purchased the KX71-3, with the hyd. thumb. Witha fuel cost of <$3.00/hour and unit cost of approx $12.00 per hour, I figured that even if it took a little longer to dig the trees out, it will be far less expensive than leasing a D3 or D4 @ $80.00 hour. Also, I just purchased a M105X with front end loader that can also potentially help remove the trees. Of course the M105X will have many other normal farm applications also.
Thanks for your thoughts.