JLinknc
New member
I am getting ready to be in the market for an older small track loader around the size of a John Deere 450. I know there are several different manufacturers other than John Deere that made track loaders around this size. I don't have a concrete budget set in stone but would like to stay under 15K if possible. Age doesn't bother me near as much as condition so an older non computerized loader probably meets my needs more. I am looking for something that is fairly easy to work on and decent parts availability. Parts don't have to be sitting on the shelf but I want to stay away from loaders that most of the parts are obsolete. I know Case, Allis, cat, and International made dozers and track loaders in this size but don't know which model or brand to stay away from and which ones to seek out. This loader will be used for light land clearing around the farm, moving dirt, as well as building a 3/4 acre pond. It will be stored out of the weather inside a barn. I plan to keep this piece of equipment for many years. I know many will think I should have this work contracted out or rent equipment but that wouldn't fit my need since I work full time and would do most of my work in the evenings and on weekends spread out over a long period of time. I've already given much thought to skid loaders, backhoes, excavators, dozers, etc over the last year and decided that a track loader meets my needs better overall. Any current owners out there willing to give some insight on their opinions in which track loader they would choose if in the market? Thanks in advance.