7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying a Skid Loader + Basic Maintenance

7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying a Skid Loader + Basic Maintenance
Here is my long term review of this skid steer:
• Would I buy it Again? ...
Check out our skid steer playlist for more videos like this
Skid Steers and attachments, including the John Deere 325G
• Skid Steers and attach...
100 hour review of my John Deere 325G Skid Steer
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[@RockhillfarmYT]

Here is my long term review of this skid steer: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGKph2uJiq-UgKc Check out our skid steer playlist for more videos like this Skid Steers and attachments, including the John Deere 325G kzbin.info/aero/PLmYnhJtNUq7eMYSMYExz40ah9thbWvFUn

[@arcdestriumph586]

Get Tire Foam.. Spray Can.. Armour All or other brand. Spray all over your engine. It won't harm any items. Not good to hit electronics w water. Let the Tire Foam Soak. Retreat as needed. Wipe off electronic parts w shop rag. Find out where all the sensitive electronics, fuse blocks, etc are underhood and treat w care.. You can scrub the other parts.. Be a surgeon, not a careless blaster.

[@rp1645]

Thank you for doing this service/Cleaning the Dust/Dirt build up under the operator station. YES you are so right about keeping that area Dirt free. I ran a Bobcat, brooming the Sand off sidewalk after the SNOW event. We brushed the SAND to the curb edge, then SWEEPER came behind and cleaned up. I was covered in SAND. NO one ever pulled CAB up after we got sweeping done. I wish I had seen your great video, sure would have done what you did. The place I worked at had a TURN OVER type contract with Bobcat. The machine was returned to them after each year. They would give back a new machine. I did not like the Bobcat FOOT pedal front bucket control system. The switch on the dash control. Would only let you use the two Levers( right and left) for front bucket control. It was HARD to learn, myself coming from a Joy stick control of are Cat/ JD/ Case backhoes we had at are workplace, that all had a one lever control for the front bucket.

[@marvindiamonjr.9631]

I was a heavy equipment mechanic in the 70's and 80's. I had one job where most of the equipment was Bobcat skidloaders. Let me tell you, they were nowhere near as accessible as your John Deere! I was amazed watching this video. I could have serviced, repaired, and rebuilt those things in half the time had they been as accessible as yours. Ahh, the good old days...in this case, not so much! Another great video. Thanks, Brock.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yes sir. Not that I spent much time around the older machines but I am really impressed with the engineering and design on this. It almost seems like serviceability was their number one priority

[@bobcat8439]

I have a 843 and a 463 they are way harder to work on

[@jerryfischer3988]

The newer Deeres listened to skid steer operators and actually hired some to help design and redesign their machines. It shows. The Deere has moved from a second thought farm machine to another category altogether. I especially like the grading features that can eliminate a laser

[@steelman5033]

I know I’m 7 months late but look at videos on changing the oil on a cat 279d. John Deere does it right on just about everything! I got rid of my 2020 cat because of how big of a pain it was to work on! My 2021 325g has outperformed in every way but small movements and the cg seems a bit higher! (The deere is a bit laggy, also feels a bit more scary on steep hills, I build super-cross tracks.) the power that the 325g has for lifting and pushing is crazy. I load my 4500lb mini X onto my flatbed with it. Long story short I won’t be going to cat again anytime soon!

[@xephael3485]

That's because his JD is flimsy trash... look at how thin the side panels are.

[@timcatlin920]

When it comes to preventive maintenance. Most people don’t even come close to what you are doing. They just run their equipment until it breaks. I work on heavy equipment. It’s amazing how people don’t get how important preventative maintenance is. Good video.

[@andrewmueller1418]

Try running your brush cutter with your boom in float. Makes a huge difference. Also try and integrate your travel speed or creep switch by your right joystick while brush cutting. Will keep your rpms up on the cutter but slow your travel speed down a bit without having to feather the joystick the whole time. I’ve been running, working on, selling equipment for about 20 years. Worked for bobcat dealer for 15 years. Now work for Deere dealer for the past year and a half. Great product!! You’ve got a good machine there. Take care of it and it will take care of you.

[@johnnywalker5635]

Before hosing off with garden hose, disconnect battery NEGATIVE, wait 10 minutes, then hose off. Wait for unit to air dry before reconnecting negative terminal of battery. This will lessen the likelihood of any 12V shorts while hosing.

[@jeoinaforest]

Good video overall!!! As someone who grew up on a dairy farm and utilized tractors for many hundreds of hours, I LOVE my skiddy... I have 40 acres and a bobcat S220. This thing outperforms a tractor big time for any sort of dirt moving. I could afford a tractor...but I just use the skiddy to bush hog. Its a little slower, but thats the only thing I actually would use a tractor for. I use the grapple for tree work, game changer, wow!!! IF you can afford a skiddy...ditch the tractor and buy an AC/Heat cab skiddy, clean and dry! Dirt, snow, trees, this thing is SOO much better than a tractor its not even close!!!

[@woodwardoutdoors7742]

There is a dust mitigation package for that machine. I have it on my 333G hands down night and day difference with the cleaning under the cab. I honestly don’t know why it isn’t standard on all of the machines. But it’s essentially just big rubber gaskets that line all of the openings on the machine. I would highly recommend it. For maybe a couple grand it will save you tons of cleaning. Also if your running that rotary mulcher on a regular basis, I wouldn’t wait 100 hours to pick that cab up. These machine catch on fire from people doing mulching and getting wood chips in that machine. Great video keep on keeping on.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for sharing the info

[@foonus406]

I got a wheeled 320G a while back, for the longest time I was running it in the precision mode not realizing that it basically cuts you down to 80% power. The door can be a pain especially doing farm work when you need in and out of the machine constantly, im convinced JD makes them this way because of the amount of replacement rubber seals and glass they sell long after the initial purchase due to operator damage. I've seen a few guys remove the door glass and wiper completely and leave the door frame closed the whole time. Probably not the safest or cleanest idea, but I've defiantly been tempted. Thanks for the video!

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for sharing

[@mattb5029]

Buy a Kubota and the door is never an issue

[@kyjoe3403]

Recently purchased my first skid loader also, the door was the deciding factor for me. The 325 was my first pick but I went with the Kubota 75 SVL high flow wide track. It is nice to be able to get out when you have the arms elevated a little. If it's a nice day and you don't need the protection I can just leave the door open, this helps if you have to talk to someone also. Another thing worth mentioning is a Lexan forestry door. The Kubota's door is flat and mine was $1,000, the JD door was over 3K because it's curved. I haven't spent any time in a JD 325 but I feel it is thought out a little better than the Kubota except for the door.

[@Yettiattack]

We have 3 333g at work I cant imagine what those doors cost. An we have tossed them the second they arrive. They break they fog an they get dirty.

[@frootloops1655]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video for all us. Just bought my first skid this past summer (2022), a 12 year old NH with 755 hours. But still enjoyed your well done video. Thanks again.

[@chadandlauragross1264]

Great video tutorial on the maintenance. I don’t own a skid steer and didn’t realize how easy the cab lifts up so that was interesting.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yeah, very well designed in my opinion

[@markbergthold6181]

Joysticks make a world of difference. I have a Bobcat T110 w/full cab & joysticks. Totally agree re knowledge - I’ve had mine for 4 years & still consider myself a rookie, altho I’m way better now.

[@Unkn0wnC0mmand]

Do this video for an ASV CTL. Their engineers sit around a table and try to make things as hard as possible for the user. JD has legendary user-friendly design. Good video.

[@T_Humphries]

I have battled motion sickness all of my adult life. I can't ride in some type cars because they ride really soft and floaty, I can't even watch a spinning ride at the fair, I can't walk in circles around a Christmas tree wrapping lights, I could go on and on. I never thought about that being a problem operating a skid steer but now that you point it out I bet I would throw up after a few minutes operating it. All that to say this, Dramamine works very well for me, if I know I'm going to be doing something like a roller coaster I'll take one pill the night before and I'm good. If I get in a situation where I get motion sick I'll take two pills to knock it out, usually takes a couple hours, however the regular Dramamine will make me drowsy and feel sorta funny almost buzzed. I have been buying the "less drowsy" kind for several years and it works great with less problems. I recommend you try it and see how it makes you feel on a day your not operating any equipment and for you I'm not sure if you ever have a day like that lol. My mother has some wrist bands she got at a drug store years ago that have a big plastic ball that presses on the underside of your wrist, you wear them in a situation that would make you sick and it prevents it somehow, they work for her but I have never tried them

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Very good feedback. When I said I haven’t had a problem with it since it’s actually not accurate. If I’m a passenger in a car and not looking at the road I will get motion sickness but I very rarely I’m a passenger. Spinning rides also make me sick. I’ve never taken Dramamine but I will give it a try

[@patrickcorbett8361]

I enjoyed the "Hands on" explanation of all things Skid Steer . Thanks for taking the time and making us a bit smarter when it comes to 'How things really are ' Good job Brock ! pc

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for watching

[@timziegler9358]

Very thorough, instructive and helpful! I learned a great deal. Thank you.

[@bigsway4414]

That is one of your most informative videos ever. Definitely a thumbs up there. Learned a lot. I still can’t believe a new diesel truck costs more than a skid steer….

[@dilligas66]

I also bought a Deere because of my relationship with the dealer. And I also wished it had a swing up door like a Kubota…at first. Then I realized how much I use the door as a point of contact while entering and exiting the cab. And you can slip in and out without losing as much climatized air or getting as much dust in the cab. No doubt there are times I might want to exit with the boom up past where the door will swing open but not very often, furthermore if the boom is up high enough you have to exit under it, that’s harder than it looks…and no doubt some degree of danger. The JCB is interesting and a different animal altogether but as far as a swing up door like a Kubota in comparison, both have pros and cons, but I wouldn’t switch.

[@rodshepard3967]

Very informative, Brock. This should allow others to have less worry about purchasing a skid steer!! Another great video! 👍

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks

[@Yettiattack]

I need to do The 500 hr service on my 323e I bought with 464 hours am now at about 525. Such a good machine. I love jd.

Very good video. Many interesting and well presented items covered. It should be helpful to new skid steer owners.

[@TheAefril]

Thanks. That was very comprehensive and very knowledgeable. Thank you from Sydney / Australia.

[@genewilliams7497]

Great in-depth Maintence video /info! Also glad to see that you finally repented and joined the “ air conditioned cab cult” 😂😂. Years ago in ground yellow jackets drove me into all cab equipment and I never looked back and besides it is much much healthier for you swell! 👍👍🔥🔥

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yeah, when buying my first tractor I was concerned about broken glass from tree limbs or not being able to go in tight spaces but honestly what percentage of the time are you trying to go under a low branch and what’s the trade-off for the dust and the heat when running it for hours

[@lonestarcollectiblezcom2602]

Great video, thanks for making it. I think no matter what door you have, there are challenges. I know some people I follow have the Kubota skids and over time, they get dirt in the tracks of the door jamb, so unless you're cleaning that weekly as well, the door has trouble going up/down, not stopping you from doing it, just more cumbersome is what I've seen, but anyways, you can definitely clean it and it probably stays in very good repair that way. I'm OCD myself, or at least with my cars and I think I will be too with a skid, but appreciated you showing us how you went about washing it out thoroughly, but also noticed, you really didn't mess with throwing any water towards the back end of the skid, which I short of wish you did! I think trying to address the jerky moves and help you out there, what if you put it into the slower speed mode and take your time backing up/turning to help do 2 things, not get you nocuous and also not beat you up in the skid while operating it? Where are you based out of, I'd like to come by, get a lesson on running the skid and help you out sometime.....thanks! Brian

[@scottmoss6759]

I have a Kubota L3901 and JD 320E wheeled skid steer. I am getting ready to spray out the undercarriage of the JD tomorrow. I bought it used, the previous owner had passed away and used it in his landscaping business. It had about 2 inches of mulch underneath. Thanks for the video.

[@raymondmcdonald7085]

I had no idea when I asked you about the track scrub in your previous video you were a new skid steer owner. Congrats! Skid steers really are an awesome design. I own a JD 3320 but have operated most every piece of equipment imaginable as well as being a mechanic for JD, Bobcat and Cat in the 90's. The maintenance accessibility you shared has improved immensely. Absolutely hated working on a Bobcat 443! Thanks for sharing.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yeah, I’m just a rookie Thanks for watching and commenting

[@BladePro2021]

I have owned different types of skid steers, and agree with you about having a better way to exit the cab with the load lifted a bit but I had a JD 322 CTL with the top door and it wasn't the greatest thing either, the door was so small that if the loader arm was raised even the slightest, the cross arm cut the space down to crawl out significantly. I also thought my track machine was really smooth and stable compared to the rubber tire ones i have owned. Good content .

[@raymondmcdonald7085]

I agree. The ones with tires can be squirrely!

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for the feedback on the doors and tires

[@jasonbloodsworth6968]

Awesome video. I took delivery of my new 325g last Friday. Absolutely love it.

[@bigdogdazza]

My background is earthmoving. I’m preparing to buy my first farm and hands down won’t consider any other machine than a skid steer track machine. So versatile, abundance of attachments, low maintenance, ease of outside contract work.

[@loganbunch1410]

Glad to hear you have better luck with heritage tractor than I did. I spent $40k at the one in West Plains, MO and it was 5 weeks and several phone calls to corporate and regional managers before they even sent me a loaner tractor and then another 3 weeks before they brought the tractor I had purchased. To top it off they said that the hydraulic cylinders on the loader were leaking so they were having them rebuilt, less than a month later they are pouring fluid out of them so I call my cousin who is the one they claim rebuilt the cylinders and he said that he never rebuilt them because they wouldn’t bring them. I’m in the market for a skid steer but we have bobcat, cat, new holland,and kubota dealers in all within 20 miles of the house, and if I go with Deere I will make the 2 hour drive to the next heritage tractor.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for sharing your story. That would be frustrating

[@lewerim]

Being a newcomer to West Plains, I'm sad to hear this. Were you thinking of dealing with Rogersville?

[@loganbunch1410]

@@lewerim yes I would deal with Rogersville if I buy anything else from them. I have talked to several people since then has had bad experiences with west Plains. 1 of those people has bought three skid steers, 2 mini excavators, 2 tractors, a no till drill, and all kinds of attachments from the dealer in West Plains for his rental business and he said that the wait time was usually at least 2 weeks. The salesman and the manager blamed it on Covid but he said the tractor and attachments he bought were sitting on the lot when he bought them, they just seem to be after their commission and don’t really care about the customer.

[@ianthompson2802]

I think that's gateway dealer network turf in west plains. I'm not sure if it is fabick cats turfout there I'm near the hq fabick their parts people suck nuts. Try to get a m series machine while they are still for sale new the new generation bobcat machines suck more that fabicks parts dept

[@johhlocke1687]

From west plains and I stuck with fabick from Williow. Customer service has been excellent and CAT is a great machine. Was going to buy a Kubota and went to Kubota dealer, Edgler, at West Plains and they were a complete joke. They had no interest in helping me out. Same with ordering parts for my farm tractor from them. They have screwed me over so many times. So they lost my 100,000 dollar investment.. I never dealt with green and they are overpriced. Glad I stuck with yellow. I wanted Takeuchi but the closest dealer is Springfield.

[@thatrealba]

As a former owner of an excavation company and an equipment operator by trade, you should not be running that CTL in high gear for most operations. There isn't much need for using that much fuel and you are causing all kinds of premature wear on that beautiful machine. Slow down, speedy. If I had an employee blasting around my job sites like that, I'd re-train him and give him a handful of opportunities to fix the error, then he'd be send on down the road. In my decades of commercially running equipment, and running my personal John Deere farm tractor on my property, it's pretty rare to need to get those RPMs up over 2k for most stationary tasks. Hope you see my comment and that it helps you out.

[@dans4900]

Been around a lot of different operators on jobs. You can tell how they are going to be just by the speed they run the machine. If they pin the throttle I run away. Going slower is actually faster in the end

[@ratherbewrenching6114]

Try to position your pile so you don't have to turn so much. I run backwards a lot to keep from turning. It also helps the tracks to last longer.

[@ferrotee2629]

Territory of Arizona here. Loved your honest overview of the skid steer. Looking to get one myself. Really appreciated the remarks about the door lack of functioning. But maintenance I can dig it. Not a mechanic at all...just a smooth blend of Cole Trickle & Ricky Bobby😎 If you ain't first, your last!

[@professionalinspectionserv4228]

Interesting, I have Kabuta wheeled skidsteer. Was not sure about wheeled and track, cost difference for sure and expensive track replacement. I love the machine. Blindspots for sure, great heat and ac, fantastic door. I can lift a pallet of concrete from the trailer, full tank of diesel, and take my time. I am trying to invent more balast weight, then would be safer... Thanks alot of good info. My only problem in my area is getting it serviced, Kabuta likes to sell but no one Services the skidsteer. I think that is the number one reason Kabuta has taken off, in most areas it is a better machine.

[@kevadcock]

So you like your wheeled Kubota? Getting ready to make a purchase, do you use yours for and mowing hills ?

[@professionalinspectionserv4228]

Not used for mowing.

[@troyt5309]

A coupe shortcomings of the skidsteer I didn't like coming from a tractor was lack of visibility, cramped cab space, crawling over whatever attachment you have on it, and not being able to get out of the cab when using the loader! I almost went back to a tractor for those reasons til I came across the JCB brand. The JCB solved all those issues for me and on top of it, one of the JCB's I got also has a teleboom arm on it that extends out a extra 6' i Believe and that in itself it a total game changer on what you can all do with it making it more useful than any other skidsteer or tractor for loader work! Now I'm In love with my skidsteers and won't go back to anything else.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

The JCB seems like the perfect choice to me

[@camcam-uw5mx]

I used to work on some case skid steers for a rental company and they had dome plates you could take off or loosened on the bottom to aid in washing out the belly pan idk about john deere but id have to do it pretty regularly and id take the plates all the way off and just spray some black spray paint on em to help fight rust. We are in a pretty wet climate though so that may not apply to you. But yes dirt and water in your belly pan will ruin your loader quick fast and in a hurry.

[@betterbuilt1114]

Back up camera is awesome!! I like wheel machines more than track. I have 2 cat 262, 1 cat 279. The track machines are much more a rough ride imo. Totally agree on the door, slide up would be nice!!

[@farmerjoebrown2189]

Turning in low speed and lifting is a lot better. Good review. Thanks

[@robandnell4305]

Its hard but if you run at 7/8s or 3/4 speed it will smooth out some and cut your fuel consumption a bunch. Plus it will cut wear and tear also. You are right that they are a workhorse and much smoother than tires. Good luck with your JD.

[@jphickory522]

Great channel. Useful and practical info presented in a down to earth way

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks

[@anthonycash4609]

All the newer machines skid steers that is are much better this day and time on accessing things. And maintenance is made way easier also. But now that don't hold on the mini excavators most that I have worked on was a bear to get to things. Specially hydraulic hoses. Good luck with the deer.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks

[@chargermopar]

Interesting about your hydraulics. I have 25 year old and older Bobcats and never noticed the lift and tilt functions to be slower when turning. Now my machines have the old foot controls. The hydraulic pump that operates the loader is separate from those that operate the wheels. Running over stuff is as rough as you said. On uneven ground mowing you need a brush cutter with a pivoting mount and guide wheel. I don't run my machines at full throttle except when traveling. The motion sickness you mention is what others have told me as well. However, I have never experienced it myself. I love the quick maneuverability of a skid steer.

[@medjoolmaker]

Brock, these manufactures are crazy on their maintenance schedules. I would never go 500 hours on oil and filter. 250 pushing it. I would change at 100 hours now(first break in-metals) and check again 150-200 hours more. you have a-lot of dust and heat and "severe" service intervals are much shorter. It's a marketing BS scheme to advertise 500 hours for service, once one company does it, they all follow. Just like new cars/trucks, manual states 10,000 miles for oil/filter. every mechanic will tell you thats crazy, just assume half of what they call for. oil and filters are very cheap insurance for such an expensive machine..

[@RockhillfarmYT]

I agree with you. It does recommend having your oil tested at 250 hours. I believe it also had a severe service interval that was 50%

[@justinvoisine8750]

I agree with doing first service around 100 hrs and I think final drive oil on tracked skid loaders should be done every 100-150hrs if you want them to last. Regarding oil and filter intervals at 500 hrs.........no problem what so ever. I own and have owned many pieces of logging and construction equipment and was a bit skeptical when 500hrs was the "new thing". I have sent out 100's of oil samples over the last decade and the results would surprise you. An engine in proper operating condition with cooling and fueling system working correctly return oil samples showing plenty of oil life remaining using regular off the shelf mineral oils. Ive had oil sampled with 600 hrs on it and oil anaylsis would come back suggesting to leave the oil in and resample in an additional 250hrs. Same as vehicles. My 2020 6.7 powerstroke had nearly 10,000 miles before "change oil soon" message appeared on display. Oil sample suggested I resample in 5000 miles. Oil quality has changed drastically over the last decade. Engine technology has changed. Equipment and vehicles run much more efficient and clean then they used to and these are important factors on determining life of engine oil. The only mechanics that will suggest you change oil at 1/2 way point of manufacturer suggested intervals are old school mechanics who remember the days of 4 barrell carbs and 3000 mile oil changes pushing your luck.

[@nate2838]

While I have limited experience with tractors, skid steers, and mini excavators, I do have enough experience to recognize this is a good, well thought out video for those who are new to equipment. Especially if they are deciding whether to get a tractor or a skid steer. Great job :)

[@forward_ever_ever2595]

So your preference is the tractor right?

[@RockhillfarmYT]

For a property owner, wanting to maintain their property the tractor is better. It doesn’t tear up the ground everywhere it goes and you can get a variety of attachments at better prices. If you have large scale, projects then a skid loader will do everything faster.

[@forward_ever_ever2595]

@@RockhillfarmYT gotcha.....thx bud

[@robertashley192]

I bought a kubota 97-2 and the door is awesome.

[@Nothingtoya]

I've operated a bunch of different machines, my Favorite is hands down, the Kubota 75-2. We're getting ready to trade in or horrible Manitou 2150RT for a Kubota 75-3. I don't like the electric over hydro on other machines.

[@livelife4471]

Very good video. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.

[@truckdevine]

Love your review brother. Took ya time & got the info out to us viewers. I sure appreciate it.

[@alanhickey6633]

Great video mate. I appreciate your humble thoughts on these machines as I’m looking at getting one myself with no idea about it.

[@GoatZilla]

Simple thing I've always thought about for one of these is a 3rd person camera, maybe mounted high up on a pole, sending video to a monitor in the cab.

[@mr.maccannics4484]

great video! my brother bought one like this one identically he loves it and worked for a concrete crew for 5+ years using all Kubota CTL machines. he likes the Kubota CTL machines but when it came down to purchasing a skid steer for himself he went with the 325g because of performance. the Deere had hands down more in all aspects, easily!!

[@paulp1166]

Very well done video. Bad thing with a skid steer is that they are cost prohibitive for most people unless you have a business and are taking money in using it.

[@workingmanrondoyle3287]

Another great video Brock .👍👍 You are speaking all truth about skid steers machines.They are true workhorses. I choose the mini-skid for myself as being a much safer option for tight spaces with 100% visibility. But yours with air conditioning is what I'm missing. Keep up with the great videos!

[@johngrefe2232]

The ASV has a really nice suspension system which helps running long hours.

[@G.I.JeffsWorkbench]

Great rundown Brock. Thx for putting this together. No doubt a lot of work. You covered so much, with your typical no B.S. presentation style. I agree that maintenance is tedious, boring & a time suck, but it sure beats paying a mechanic to repair things that could have been non issues if you’d taken the time to do routine preventive maintenance. I’m shopping again, so I’m gonna watch your long-term test of the Deere. One last thing, I agree that the slide up door is sort of a gimmick. The pros I know don’t like em. Noisier, hot in summer, cold in winter, side opening doors seal on a much better level.

[@placebogazebo9671]

That machine is prime example of engineers finally building a piece of equipment that sort of self breaks down, and self puts back together. Really impressive.

[@austindooley105]

Im a Yard Maintenace Tech at John Deere Dealer, we powerwash the bottoms out of these trackloaders all the time, looking for hydraulic/oil leaks

[@ronstopfer2315]

II love your videos. I disagree with someone who said you’re whining. I like to think I learn every time I watch something. But I would ask is when you list a few links to your other videos….could you leave them up there a bit longer? Many thanks and keep on keeping’ on.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for the feedback. I think the longest KZbin let you have those up his 15 seconds

[@dennisveerkamp2707]

great video. yes there is a big difference between wheel unit and a track unit. the track unit is more stable on uneven ground.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Right. Thanks for watching

[@dennisveerkamp2707]

One thing I see is that companies are starting to offer mini wheel loaders to compete with skidsteers. They are easier on finished lawn than a skidsteer for anyone in the landscape or rural homeowner.

[@robertm9848]

I ran big hydraulic wheel cranes for about 10 years and a saftey rule for guys working in the yard was if you cant see the operators eyes stay out of the reach of the boom until you make eye contact.

[@berkoskilandscaping4247]

You were talking about turning and operating the boom at the same time and its loosing power.. most of the time that happens if you are in High speed travel. if you are in low speed travel you shouldn't have that problem

[@OldBullRanch]

Its your loader and you can do whatever you want.....but I own a 2020 jd 317g open cab and no matter what Im doing its at 1800-2400 rpm max. The gas pedal is there for scooting across a little faster or if you need more power to lift or push.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yeah, I’m trying to get a consensus for what is best for the machine. Most of the comments I’ve gotten said that you should run max rpm all the time So who knows really

[@OldBullRanch]

@@RockhillfarmYT i understand why people would say run it full power.. They are normally old people that used to run old machines. Think of the new diesel engines in skidsteers like your truck.... sure it could run at 3k rpm all day but do you really need to and how good can it be for any engine to run at max rpm every time its used. Like I said.. its not mine lol. I take my advice from two different experts that own and run skidsteers everyday.....New skidsteers lol

[@RockhillfarmYT]

I appreciate you sharing some information. I’m always trying to learn more about it. That is a very common, you are reading forums though. “These things are meant to run full throttle” What you are saying makes sense in my mind

[@jimmyfavereau]

thanks for the info brock, mighty kind of you to offer the invite :D God Bless!

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for watching

[@mikejankoviak8542]

One thing a guy told me before you don't want to buy a used machine that's been used on a dairy farm or a rental place. I found out the hard way with a cat skidsteer I bought. Biggest pos ever that was used on a farm. Love and learn

[@digger7871]

I put a hose to relocate the hidden grease fitting on the boom cylinder got it from lock n lube

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for sharing

[@shanew7361]

Should've bought a TakeuchiTL12V2., good video. 🇺🇲

[@rodbagley1686]

Love to come over and see you sometime. Enjoy your how to videos.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yes sir

[@TheAlpine49]

Great video! Very informative. I own an older 2013 bobcat. I'd love to have A/C considering I'm in Phoenix and LA for most of my work

[@redneck-l4w]

Try blowing out dirt and derbish with a powerful leaf blower and do it often, Much better than an air hose,

[@e1ucas]

I agree with you about those old Bobcats with the pedals operating the boom. Before I had my 1025r, I rented one to spread a couple triaxle loads of stone, and holy cow was it unpleasant. Thanks for your thoughts on your new Deere.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Yeah, as a completely unexperienced guy in that style of machine it was like riding a mechanical bull Thanks for watching

[@sergeantrandomusmc]

I was a diesel mechanic for over a decade. Far too many people don’t understand the value of inspecting and cleaning the machine like you did. Clean it regularly so that you will notice small oil leaks early - before they become a large leaks and before there’s a large oil buildup that can catch fire… cleaning tracks keeps dirt from ruining sprocket seals… cleaning the radiator (GENTLY don’t bend the fins) prevents an overheating situation and ensures you don’t have lots of greasy dirt stuck inside the radiator fins (generally why people use WAY too much air/water pressure and bend fins) In short, cleaning your machine thoroughly and regularly is every bit as important as checking/changing the oil and greasing it.

[@northeasterndirtandpropert7974]

I think all doors should be mandated to open towards the upward position,it only makes sense for access and safety.The japanese have been engineering this way for some time.Sometimes Engineers and companies just need to admit,its a better design.Maint. has to be a big deal,equipment just cost to much to neglect.Always liked the tilt cab feature.

[@jphickory522]

No mandates please. We already have way too much government regulation

[@Jtwizzle]

I find the slide up door like on the Takeuchi skid steers to be better only for being able to open it with a lifted load. All other aspects the standard swing open door is better, imo. Getting in and out a lot I would usually leave the heavy slide up door on the takeuchi open, then you have hot air and dust coming in. With the standard door it is much lighter and easier to use when opening and closing it very often.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

I saw someone make that comment in another video before I bought mine. They said that when you need it it’s fantastic but the other 10,000 times you open your door it’s a hassle. Not terrible just not as convenient. One of the reasons I went with what I did. I think the JCB design may be the best thing out there but there’s no dealer support here

[@codyjlee]

A skid steer / skid loader is defonitely high on my list to buy... It's definitely a big investment, though. I think I live relatively far away to take you up on that skid loader demo offer, but maybe I could take a trip over there some time... would be great fun I'm sure! (NC boy over here)

[@billdigs3130]

Hopefully you have better luck with deere skid steers then we have ours hasn’t made it to an oil change interval with out something breaking. Check your oil drain spout coming out of oil pan isn’t hitting the bottom of the machines. It will crack the oil pan and they have to pull motor to fix

[@sethmeashey3219]

Hey Brock.. really good video. I happen to have a Bobcat MT100 mini skid steer, as well as two 25hp tractors in different frame sizes. I will say the mini skid loader is 100% a more robust built machine.. more of a commercial feel to it. No flex in loader arms under max load etc. The breakout force is in a different league from my tractors. I enjoy the maneuverability of the tracked style machine, but the tractors leave much less of a footprint and ride alot better from a comfort standpoint. The tracked machine is much better for maintaining a level stance for grading IMO. And then of course there is the visibility issue when it comes to the cutting edge of the bucket. Seems most tractors rely on a level indicator to determine bucket angle, because of lack of visibility of the business end of the bucket. Skids are just miles ahead for grading and dirt work in general. For the average personal use machine however, I think a tractor has alot to offer. For someone making a living with a machine, I feel a skid loader or mini skid is better built and suited to the daily abuse. Just my .02 I really wish you did have a comparable tractor to do a real comparison. I think it would be a super informative video.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Everything you were saying seems accurate to me I’m looking at potentially getting a demo on a mini skid. To this point I’ve only ran them at farm shows On the bigger tractor, I think I know how that comparison would go but it would still be fun to do. A Machine big enough to rival the skid loader in power won’t have any maneuverability. Something like a 4066 hydrostat might be the closest comparison rather than something like a 5075

[@claytonwells5502]

Get a Takeuchi

[@andrewanderson1436]

Everything you said is on point. And that is definitely easy to clean out than a bobcat. We have a 777 bobcat at work and I dislike it so much its old and doesn't have good lift capacity. It struggles to lift 10 hawker batteries on a pallet. It has a kubota engine that's the only thing I like about it.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for sharing

[@BigTader]

Just from watching your channel I believe sometimes you might rush into buying equipment. Brock your being rough on your tracks I don't believe you will get 1500hrs on your tracks but from watching this video I believe you will get at least 1000hrs on the tracks because like you said this is your first time owning a track loader.

[@goodboyringo9716]

Before spraying the machine with water maybe remove the battery cable, dry it out with air compression before connecting the cable, just to be on the safe side.

[@toddcaskey9984]

If their is areas that you are worried about water on electric connections put WD-40 (water dispensing -40) on it. That is what it's really for or was designed for unlike what we all use it for a lubricant. Todd 🤪 This looks easier to service, than every skid steer I have ever used .

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Good tip It is a well engineered machine Thanks for watching

[@toddcaskey9984]

Displacer , lol , I had to type it 20 times before it would not change it on me lol

[@solgudman1439]

Own a JD 2038R and Cat wheeled skid steer.. your JD skid steer is really nice for maintenance wow impressed also i feel also like a little drunk when i am in the skid steer for long periods..great video

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Great combo. Glad to hear that it’s not just me

[@micaht52]

Good job cleaning the bottom out you'll be glad you did. It will bust those metal hydraulic lines if you don't.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for the feedback

[@brian5397]

I just bought a 333G at auction with 2500 hours. I don't think the machine was ever washed in its life. There was a good 8' of mud built up in the undercarriage and engine compartment. It took 2 days of washing with a hose to get it cleaned. A weekly cleaning will go a long ways!

[@mandomestizo]

Hi! how much did you pay for it if you dont mind sharing the info! thanks!

[@marco4081]

Get an 80g compressor, 3/8 npt air hose, and use milton p style 3/8 fittings, then buy a 36 inch long guardair xtra thrust air gun, it cleans everything

[@lwwarren]

I spoke to a bunch of my neighbors with tractors before I bought my first one and without exception they ALL regretted not spending the couple thousand dollars extra to get a cab on their tractor. The first time you dump a bucket full of dirt into the wind you're gonna wish you had a cab. Not counting all the time we operate our tractors in the snowy winter and the blazing summer heat. I've never had to suffer this problem because I bought my first tractor with a heated and air conditioned cab. I'll never get another piece of equipment without a cab!

[@RockhillfarmYT]

I have one machine with a full cab and the other one without. It’s definitely a game changer but it can also be a $10,000 option and some people are just stretching their budget to get any machine at all.

[@joshtinelli1297]

Thanks for the video. I have a 26HP L series Kubota and find that it's just too long for getting into the woods on my property so I'm looking for something more compact. I had a BX that went more places but didn't have the lift capacity I need. I've got a pretty steep hillside where I would do some work so I'm thinking of getting a track skid loader like this. It seems like the skid steer would be best for wood work and digging (I don't do a lot of digging), and fair for plowing my driveway (200 yards long or so, paved). It seems like the tractor would be better for grading the gravel road that goes down my hillside (I've used a 3pt blade and it's OK, plan to get a box blade to make it better). I also do some tilling and brush hogging where it seems like the tractor would be better suited. Have you used anything to grade out a gravel road? Seems like a dozer blade would be the best option to grade out a road that has a decent incline and starts getting washed out after a year or so.

[@gdotone1]

jcb 3t, i want them to do a 300hp machine. do at 250. let's see what the oil looks like at 250. you are right about job experience

[@Everythingisgoingtobealright]

Great video, awesome machine.

[@greg3629]

Great info! After you washed the internals down did you go back over it with the air to blow out the water? So the water does not sit on the places that could rust?

[@RockhillfarmYT]

I did. Thanks for the tip

[@naterussell6025]

don't spin when you turn. it's hard on the undercarriage. make a longer turn or a three point turn. it's also less destructive on the surface and less bumps and ruts.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for the advice. I assumed most people do the three-point turns anyway because if they Running it professionally it’s all about time

[@paulheidbreder]

Love it. Free Skid Loader with the purchase of a hat!!!

[@gringopines3476]

HAY THANX FOR THIS VIDEO, I FOUND IT REALLY INFORMATIVE. WHEN YOU WERE LOOKIN' FOR YOUR MACHINE, DID YOU CONSIDER ASV??? AND IF YOU DID, WHAT TURNED YOU AWAY... I ALSO KINDA GRAVITATED TOWARD THE BRITISH MACHINE BECAUSE OF THE TELESCOPIC BOOM. ALSO IF CONSIDERED, WHAT TURNED YOU AWAY FROM THAT ONE AS WELL. KEEP PUSHIN' ON... PEACE...

[@JR-sv8ho]

Question: It’s extremely rocky where I live in the Texas Hill Country with a lot of big flat rocks just under the surface (the easiest way to describe them is like a broken up sidewalk 2 x 3 feet on average). My 5075e tractor is about useless in this terrain for groundwork. The box blade working on the road bounced over the rocks until it got destroyed when it caught on an especially big one and my dealer is recommending trading it in on a 325G (I saw your warning about rocky terrain and tracks). With your experience on both would you cut your losses on the tractor or would it be trading downsides? Thanks

[@OldIronAcres]

That was an awesome walk thru and info share! Really liked it. Thanks Brock!

[@williamguptill8096]

Blow it out with an extender stick and also have a vacuum to suck out all the dirt from the under The cab cause a lot of shit gets in there, And then you don't have to worry about frying anything with water. And the dirt ninja has a very interesting way of adjusting the tracks where seem to work awesome. I personally hate that track style set up. I got a cat and I got it with the ASV style. A lot of maintenance but at least you don't have to worry about it falling off. Nothing like being 2 and a 1/2 miles in the woods and you hit a stump wrong and the track comes off, Is fun fun.

[@mreed777]

Nice video man. I'm seriously considering moving up from a compact tractor to a skid steer for property maintenance. Routine maintenance and upkeep costs are my primary concern. I really love running equipment too, but not a big fan of replacing 6 gallons of Hydraulic fluid every 200 hours on the tractor.

[@legacygarage5056]

Hey any advice on getting started just a small side hustle for a first time skid steer buyer.

[@user_namehere]

As far as bogging down when you're tracking and using your boom try running it in turtle or low gear when you're doing a lot of heavy boom movement and tracking at the same time. It'll give you more torque for your tracks

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for the feedback

[@scrapmanindustries]

You might not be in high flow or you might have some foreign material stuck in your hydraulic pump ports. I’ve ran all sorts of skid loaders and not one of them had a problem running the lift arms and turning. We had a case 1845 at the first junkyard I worked at and a Cat at the second. I’ve ran a Deere 333d and a bobcat s66. Not one of them had the problem you describe. We did have a excavator turned into a car ripper aparter that did have weak hydraulics. Took like 5 mobile mechanics to figure out we had something clogging the ports in the pump.

[@davebishskier]

My cat 259d and 279d are horrible for stuff getting under the cab. I took 6” wide tape and taped up along the sides and anywhere lots of material was easily coming in. Definitely a fire danger in the summer. Good luck.

[@douglasvandyke7666]

Fantastic explanation. I loved it. I know that I should not say it, but you need to get a bit more aware of what your fast food diet is and what your soft drinks are, with choices that will keep you south of 70 years of age, the way you are going.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

I do find it kind of interesting to have a comment like that when 70% of Americans are overweight and 90% of those people are actively trying to lose weight but having a hard time with it. I am curious if you walk up to people at Walmart or sitting next to you at a kids soccer game and tell them they are fat. Fat people know they are fat

[@andyflatt5066]

Bonine or Sea Bands for motion sickness. Dramamine can make you drowsy, which wouldn't be good while operating

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Thanks for the tip