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Skidsteer question

RedRocker

RedRocker

Active member
Seems to me that a skidsteer with tracks is a lot more versatile than one with wheels. Is there a circumstance where wheels are better than tracks? If not, why would anybody buy one with wheels?
 
Ground conditions mostly dictate which is better.
If you're on a soft surface, tracked is better. On a hard surface, tires are better.
A machine on tires can also move more quickly.
 
RedRocker said:
Somehow I'm guessing it might cost a few bucks to rebuild one of those things.
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Actually, it's just the engine that needs rebuilt. It's an air cooled Wisconsin 4 cylinder, so it's not a big deal. I just haven't had the time.
 
bczoom said:
A machine on tires can also move more quickly.
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I've had opportunity to use ASV and CATtracked machines(CAT uses the ASV undercarriage). They move right along:thumb:

One of ASV's website advertisements, shows a similar size/power ASV track machine drag racing a Bobcat wheeled skidsteer. The ASV walked away from the skidsteer. My limited expierience was the same.
 
we use both up here.i like the tracked jd the best.only problem is all tracked machines are lame on ice...at least you can put chains on the one with tires...
 
bill w said:
we use both up here.i like the tracked jd the best.only problem is all tracked machines are lame on ice...at least you can put chains on the one with tires...
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Ever tried the metal cleats you can get for the tracks? Do they work?

I noticed that tracked equipment is a lot harder on turf. If you need to drive across a lawn with tracks and you try to do a sharp turn you will tear up the turf.
 
i've tried the metal tracks that go over the tires and they work good on muddy or soft ground but they really tear up the grass.i haven't seen the metal cleats for the rubber tracks,but i'm sure it would help on ice....as long as it wasn't just a bar cleat.they turn you into a bobsled if you sidehill.woud definately need ice grousers,pics on them
 
My neighbor got the cleats for his tracks but hasn't tried them yet. We won't know how good they work until next year. ;)
 
Rocks shred tracks, tires as well but track replacement is $3-5k vs tires at $6-800.

Rocks get into the tracks bogey wheels and grind em up in 500 hours.

Having said all that I have a wheeled SS and like the new Deere 300 series tracked machine. Stronger lift easier to run landscaping. Neither type is as good as a tractor for snow.
 
All the tracks are good for is getting around in mushy, wet ground where you don't care how much turf you wreck. If you don't do much of that sort of work, stick with the wheeled versions. You'll be much happier.
 
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