PT425 vs MTL

[Blade Runners]

Anyone used both and what are your thoughts?

 

[woodlandfarms]

Whats an MTL?

 

[Blade Runners]

mini track loader smaller than a mini skid and is walk behind or stand-up. Toro Dingo, Vermeer 600, Ditch Witch SK650, Boxer 532DX

 

[sirmombo]

Caterpillar refers to their skid steers on tracks as multi-terrain loaders. That could be a MTL.

I used a Bobcat T180 for a weekend before I purchased a PT 1430. They are both very capable machines. The T180 can lift more weight higher and if I had to move large piles of gravel in construction sites, it would be my choice. I used it in an orchard and pasture and it really ripped up the ground. It used about 2 gallons of fuel per hour. The T180 has better operator ergonomics.

The 1430 has a much, much, much smoother ride, is capable enough to dig up stumps, move manure, and power a brush cutter, and does virtually no damage to the ground. It also uses a lot less fuel and has higher ground speed.

Bill

 

[MossRoad]

Caterpillar refers to their skid steers on tracks as multi-terrain loaders. That could be a MTL.

I used a Bobcat T180 for a weekend before I purchased a PT 1430. They are both very capable machines. The T180 can lift more weight higher and if I had to move large piles of gravel in construction sites, it would be my choice. I used it in an orchard and pasture and it really ripped up the ground. It used about 2 gallons of fuel per hour. The T180 has better operator ergonomics.

The 1430 has a much, much, much smoother ride, is capable enough to dig up stumps, move manure, and power a brush cutter, and does virtually no damage to the ground. It also uses a lot less fuel and has higher ground speed.

Bill

I think he's talking about the little tracked machines you walk behind and the attachments are in front, not a sit-in unit like you mention.

 

[woodlandfarms]

I have only seen them in action, so my opinion is of little value, but they seem slow compared to the PT, a bit tippy. But you can get a MTL into tighter spaces.

 

[MossRoad]

Anyone used both and what are your thoughts?

Never used a Dingo type piece of machinery, but have observed them in operation. If you want to compare the two, I'd come up with a list of chores to accomplish first. They are smaller, slower, lift less weight and weigh more. However, they are probably built better and you have local dealer support. But I'll bet they cost more.

 

[Blade Runners]

Yeah they are more expensive. They are mainly used by landscapers and have alot of the same functionality as the PTs. I have read all the specs of both machines but opinions from people who have used them mean alot more to me. I can't go into a Skid steer forum and ask the same thing because hardly anyone has even heard or Power-Trac.

 

[agjones]

I evaluated the PT425 directly against two different mini skid steers. Dingo and the SK line from ditchwitch. I now have a PT 425 & way more attachments than I could have afforded from either dealer network. The cost difference is on both the tractor and the attachments...and PT is less costly all around. I have a QA plat that converts to attach mini skid items so I can rent less common tools locally. The high cost, operator position and low ground speed were the 3 strikes against the minis that sealed the deal on PT. BUT I live only 2 hrs from PT...if dealer support is important...move on and save up more $.

If you return to US via Bragg and drive to NW TN. Get in touch w/ me, you can test drive mine.

 

[Blade Runners]

Thanks for the invite and the info. I have a son at Bragg but i will be flying into Nashville when I come back or I would definitely take you up on your offer.

You probably have the answers to most of my questions since you have directly compared a PT to a mini skid. I am with you on the low ground speed of the mini skids. 3.4-4.5 mph doesn't get you around too fast. Attachment pricing for them is just plain ridiculous. Many of them cost as much as compact skidder attachments.

You demoed two of the best mini's out there and chose to go with a PT so that says alot. Based on what you just wrote I am almost certain I am going with a PT now. When you use the PT with mini skid attachments, does it have enough flow to run them ok? How does the actual performance of the PT attachments compare to the mini skid attachments? The gph and attachment performace (harley rake, tiller) was one of my biggest concerns about the PT. I love every other aspect of it though. Once I get to try one I am sure all my concerns will be for nothing.