Front-end-loader backhoe unit - HOW can I get a bush hog cutter attachment on it?

[fandelem]

My basic under standing is $20,000 for hoe, $5000 for tractor, and then see if you NEED a skid steer or articulated loader. For track hoes I would look at 12-16 ton, Komatsu, Deere, Cat, and Hiatchi.

what about something like this? too big? is resale going to be more difficult?
Deere 790E LC Excavator $35000
Deere 790E LC Excavator

 

[mud23609]

I would go in the 12 to 16 ton range...But if the deal was right I would go bigger or smaller. Larger is much harder to move around (permits and such) and smaller will be a little slower. Like I said my 3.5 ton unit will take those stumps out and do your digging but on as large of a project as your looking at I would want something a little larger.

 

[mud23609]

On the attachment. While it would help, I do not see it as necessary and I beleive any time saved would be lost but constantly changing from the ripper to the bucket.

 

[paulharvey]

According to Ritchie spec its a 25 ton model, which isn't necessarily bad. 161 hp is going to burn a lot of fuel, but get work done fast. I cant really comment on the price, that really is based on condition, demand, and distance to closest port. (Lots of old equipment shipped to Caribbean, Brazil, ect). Manual thumb is a big plus, hydraulic thumb is nice, but people have been clearing for a 100 years without them. Looks like good condition, and a good size to me. But for $35k I would want to take an equipment mechanic with me too look at it. Some leak down is ok, but will only get worse with time, make sure the turn table is good, and final drives. Ask if its ever had a hydraulic hammer on it, if so, the vibration takes a toll on every part of the actual hoe, from cylinders to arms, pins, ect

Expect to pay $500+$2/mile to move it

 

[msch2112]

I wanted a backhoe attachment when I bought my JD. Decided to just rent one a couple times a year when I needed it. It was the cheaper and easier way to dig.