TC40 FEL stress...how much??

[cvpuser]

I have a TC40 with 12x12 transmission and FEL. I'm wanting to do some excavating to level out part of the yard to build a wooden play station. I envision that I'll have to level a 40' x 40' area, digging up about 2 ft. of dirt at the deepest spot. I see these little Bobcats doing this kind of work, so I think my tractor and FEL is up to it, but I'm not sure. Is my tractor and FEL up to the task? Should I do it with a different implement (e.g., boxblade)?

Thanks

 

[jinman]

A loader/boxblade combination would be best. If you have a toothbar on your loader, it would make the job a lot easier. Also, if you run into large rocks, that's not loader or boxblade work. In that case, you really need a backhoe to dig around them, but if you are patient, you might be able to dig around and dislodge them with your FEL. Your loader can easily handle a rock 3' x 2' x 1', but larger stuff may be problematic without a good counterweight on the 3PH. I removed the topsoil on a 40' x 50' spot before the excavation started on my new house. It took me all day, but it can be done. Let me tell you, that's a lot of dirt./w3tcompact/icons/shocked.gif Good luck./w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

 

[dhelsley]

Sure. I just excavated 20 by 50 for more parking with the same tractor. Depth ran from 8" to 30". Used the rippers on the box blade to loosen the soil since I don't have a tooth bar. Once it was started the loader handled it fine.

 

[cvpuser]

Thanks! I didn't think of using the box blade to break up the soil first. That's a great input.

 

[arazor]

I have the same set up as you do with a HD bucket and FEL tooth bar and dug an approx 150' X 60' pond in some spots up yo 4.5 ft deep, moving trees and large rocks without a problem. Put almost 85 hrs doing it (not quite finished detailing it yet) just plan in advance exactly what it is you are doing, where the removed soil is going to be piled, and give yourself plenty of time and room to manuver and make mistakes ubtil you can get a better feel for your machine and the task at hand. I would suggest you be very creful of your bucket if it is not HD. Have fun and make room and time for your mistakes and it will be great. Long live Big Blue (used to have an OL-Blue)