Is Ventrac Worth the Money!?

[@jimsweeney25]

I've owned my Ventrac for five years and I use it twelve months a year. Couldn't live without it anymore!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

It's an invaluable machine

[@charlesvannice1682]

Well said. Worth every penny. I've got 40 hilly acres on the tree farm and the hills scared me on the old Ford Tractor. Always thought I was going to tip over. Not with the Ventrac. I have the propane kit and love it. Tough cut, power bucket, stump grinder and 5foot blade. Power rake next.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

You're having a great time with Ventrac, that's for sure!

[@FirstRateLawnServiceRaleigh]

Encouraging video for my wife and I. that's where we want to be in the next two or three years. We're getting older but don't really want to retired from the landscaping business. but do want to down size from the complexity of employees and big commercial properties. hopefully in the future we want to be down to 2 or 3 Ventrac only, And just the two of us. As far as the Ventrac being worth the money, I certainly think so. I'm working on a project now were they have 45 stumps to be grounded. last week I did 17 in the front yard in less than three hours. I need to put 12 yards of topsoil in the backyard spread it out with a bucket and the landscape rake, use the trencher for a drain. And this can be done with one Ventrac one dump truck and one trailer.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

You can do so much more than "mowing". That's a saturated market. Get yourself into a field where there are far fewer contractors doing the same type of work :)

[@berttondo6170]

Great video and thanks for sharing your perspective on the value. I am getting ready to plunk down some serious dough in a few weeks on a Ventrac being delivered and I appreciate the encouragement about the product! I know it is an awesome machine, but at the end of the day it still is, as you say, a lot of money. Love the videos....I have learned a lot about the capabilities and maintenance of Ventracs from you. We are praying for you!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I've been a Ventrac owner for over 15 years and I have a lot of faith in this brand!

[@carljones3515]

Happy New Year to you and yours. Thanks Bradley for sharing. Glad to see you mov’n and grov’n.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Happy new year!

[@jefffrei1167]

Hi Bradley - the versatility conversation is well underway-- I agree with it whole-heartedly! Let's not forget the ENGINEERING and heft one is getting for their money. The steering geometry is perfect and allows for full time 4WD on all surfaces with no lawn tear and minimal tire wear. If you punch your calculator the PSI of under the tires is only in the 5psi range for a 1700 lb machine! While walking a human may exhibit about 17 psi on the ball of one foot! No steering ball joints, tie rods, or king-pins. 40mm forged axles and hubs. Look at the heft- and fabrication of the body, structural components, and functional components such as the radiator / screen, Engine, transaxles, hydraulic pump and motors, 25 and 10 micron full sized filters (and vertically mounted as should be).. Beautiful fabrication and welds. Built for 'up-time'...not just how much cost can we ( the manufacturer) pull out of it and have it hang in there just long enough under light-use consumer-conditions. Look the quality hardware in the fasteners, bolts, engagement mechanisms. Virtually no snap together / clip-on / twist-on fastening to break in the UV light or by vibration.... The machine is not designed to be fashionably aerodynamic and pretty, with a great wind-tunnel response from the flush mounted headlights and sleek rounded body-panels aspiring to that of a sports car. BUT-- If you know what your looking at -- like described above-- 'that' is what's beautiful...this is what equipment should be. And it's a very strong companion-justification to the other appeals people have described. My opinion, of course...thanks for reading it!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

There's so much more I could talk about on this subject!

[@guyfromsouthwest8959]

Great presentation Sir !! I recently started my plowing and lawn service , and got my first 2 acre commercial customer, and I never though Id ever have a problem with a retention pond..smh. Now after hearing about this machine, and your great video with all the info of attachments, I need to get me one of these !!. You guys made the right decision to go into that direction for a business 👍🏼👍🏼

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

We've owned Ventrac for 17 years but didn't start our business until years after our first Ventrac purchase. We realized the value in such a versatile machine that could do so many things so well!

[@thomaswilcox3153]

Thanks for the frank videos of Ventrac tractors and attachments. Consequently, I am "Gung Ho" for Ventrac.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Right on!

[@gregbeatty5638]

Thank you for taking the time and making the video🍻

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Thanks for watching, Greg! I've owned Ventrac for over 15 years and it's a great machine

[@arlisspropertyservicesllc5943]

Happy New Year! Great video Bradley! Btw, we are all praying for you…too make more snow blower videos! 😉😉😂😂

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Thanks! I appreciate that

[@oceanblue22]

Very well done! What a thorough and professional presentation you are one of the elite of your industry.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Thanks! I don't know about all that but I've been using this equipment for over 17 years with numerous attachments and have learned a great deal in that time

[@PastorDavidFranklin]

Great experienced information Bradley. Great job!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I appreciate it!

[@tommix2181]

Nice knowledge on the ventrac. Personal own a 4231 ventrac 2005,slowly buying more attachments for being more versatile at landscaping work.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Thanks! I just wish I had a person following me around with a camera. I do so many awesome things with this equipment and I just don't have time to record it all

[@scottadams513]

Great Job! Kudos from your Ventrac peers out here just down the road in King of Prussia. I’m blessed to know there is such an awesome Ventrac advocate just a short drive away from me. You remain the most objective and sincere source of experience and information on the internet. Thank you! My 4500P has been flawless, easy to maintain & while not used commercially it has proven more versatile and functional on steep slopes and terrain than any variety of Deere and Kubota tractors in existence. My neighbors love how much it can do for both my property and theirs. BTW … Great job buying seed (I see 5 or 6 50# bags on the finish mower) as the prices will skyrocket after the fires out west this past summer. I see apprehension in your eyes & your brow. I am aware of your situation and just want to let you know that folks are praying for your family’s welfare, your successful surgery and your rapid recovery back to Full Ops. You will be back here kicking in no time. Smile, take a deep breath & know you have many pulling for you. Keep believing. We believe in you. 👍

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

You should stop by sometime. I don't know everything, but I'd be happy to show you around and talk about the different attachments

[@harrysteph]

Hello Bradley, your videos helped to finally decide on what I really need. Moving up from a garden tractor, it was down to either a green or orange subcompact, until I really looked into Ventrac seriously. Your vids helped big time. I ended up with a mint used 4200 VXD and added a power bucket with grapple and the KD 602 blade with poly edge for winter. Up here in snowy Ontario Canada, blading is great! I’m close to retirement so this will spin off work for me especially up north at the cottage where this machine works best...in the bush with very bad terrain and tight areas. Not tipping over and hacking up lawns sold me. Next year, a new 4520 with cab!!. Keep up the great work. Harry

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Tell the dealer to give me a commission :)

[@drumnmachn19]

Great video. I love my Ventrac as I get older going to focus more Ventrac work and less mowing

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Definitely get into a field with less "competition" to set yourself apart

[@jefffrei1167]

Hi Bradley - For maintenance, I believe Ventrac should replace the pipe-thread drain and fill plugs on the transaxles with shoulder-style plugs that are tightened to a torque. What a shame to crack a case if you over-do a pipe plug! I also believe they should have the coolant drain valve present on the engine blocks that i see in the engine WSM's of the Kubota's. And there should be no tractor that doesn't come with a spinner knob on the steering wheel (you're already giving one hand to the SDLA). For attachments, I'd like to see as much versatility from that front PTO as possible. Stationary use comes to mind: Chipper, Water Pump, Generator, Wood-Splitter. Some they've had in the past. For user interface, I'm a sucker for and like the coolness of useful gauges. Would enjoy continuum readings of air filter restriction, manifold vacuum, hydraulic oil temperature, engine oil temperature, engine oil pressure in analog form. A red light being on / off (except for items like parking brake) is the opposite of what I'm talking about. Thanks for the great video! 🙂

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I agree! As you know, a former dealer cracked my front transaxle from overtightening!

[@daveholmes123]

Hi Bradley, the ventrac is an amazing machine, I have the 4500Z also with a power bucket, 72" finish mower, power rake and the tuff cut I'm considering the trencher this year! My only complaint is she's a gas drinker Lol ! Thanks for the video 👍

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Power equals fuel consumption :) My truck is a big block V10 and she loves to guzzle too! I can't complain though and my truck, and tractors are getting a lot of work done for the fuel they burn

[@cwolf8841]

I've owned multiple Kubotas, John Deeres, etc. over 29+ years. For a steep lot, the Ventrac is the best. Cost-effective? Try a few runaways/wrecks caused by the JD RIO kill switch. Quality? You don't need to keep a box of bandages with you on a Ventrac (like you do on a JD). Fit? You don't need a 5 lb mallet when assembling things. Is the Ventrac perfect? Sure I'd like to see more features/options (like lift rings on the implements, Line-X the mowing decks, better bucket teeth, gauge wheels on the blades, etc.), but my new Ventrac is an amazing machine. Like to see forks, chipper, etc. I realize the FEL has forks, but that's $8+K. Might even be fun to try tweels.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

What is cost compared to safety? Hindsight is always 20/20! Tweels are neat but I'm not sure how they'd do in muddy conditions

[@cwolf8841]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions I owned a $5k riding lawn mower once for 5 minutes. Apparently they don't fly very well. It only hurt a little. They now do have rough terrain tweels. They are very expensive..... realizing again that a tweel's life cycle cost may be cheaper.

[@robertyoung4153]

Bradley, both my wife and I watch your videos regularly, are elderly, live on a couple lake front acres with steep slopes, gravel drives, tough terrain and have a host of projects that we believe a Ventrac is needed. We do not plan to start a business and our Kubota could not handle the work we now need done. Also, there are few contractors available to help us. If we want something done, we have to do it ourselves. All that said, we want a dealer to come out and actually demo Ventrac capabilities, help us select options and prioritize implements purchase. Ready to buy, one dealer person did come out, but he was just helping the actual dealer, he did run up and down some slopes and was a nice guy. However, his unit did not have a slope gage, some parts were missing and once he left, I had to redo by hand (DR Power) what he did. His approach seemed to be: see it goes up and down your slopes, now plunk down the $50K. A second, much larger dealer was contacted some time later, an appointment was made for him to come out and essentially, he never showed up. My question is: could you recommend a dealer who actually knows what they are doing regarding Ventrac, are familiar the implements, and can really point me in the right direction? I am now thinking to call Ventrac and maybe ask them for a dealer to visit, etc. Any thoughts or am I just faced with buy it yourself and figure it out pal. Thank you and please keep up the great work with your videos that are so informative and educational.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Robert, Ventrac is definitely a good investment for home or professional use. Did you know that I already owned 2 Ventracs and several attachments BEFORE we started our family business? That's right, I had these things as a "hobbyist" taking care of our farm estate property, more than 50 acres, in Northern Maine. At that point, Ventrac had never been seen up there and the things I was doing with it was really turning heads! It will certainly be a worthwhile investment for you in terms of safety and capability. Where are you located?

[@robertyoung4153]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions Southwest Kentucky. Do you have an email to share for more detailed info?

[@johngwinn2088]

I am looking for a steep slope mower for earth pond dams on my property. Did you compare other slope mowers for this use? Is there anything better about Ventrac for this type of work? Thanks for your service. GREAT VIDEO!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

It all started with my uncle, testing LOTS of different brands for steep terrain on his property. Nothing comes close to the safety and stability of the Ventrac on steep and dangerous terrain.

[@danz0007]

I completely understand low center of gravity i use a lot of equipment but i would really like to see a ventrac with much more ground clearance

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

That could certainly come in handy but as you pointed out, would reduce the slope rating. This could be accomplished with a larger machine with the same dimensional ratios

[@WadeSpencerMusic]

I’m on my second Ventrac, a (4500 Z). Got to have a Ventrac to take care of my small farm.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Then you and I both know they're worth the money

[@nbragtop]

Thank you !

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

You're welcome!

[@DanielTorres-hu1zq]

Bradley, Enjoyed the video. One question I have is which Cat 1 non-Ventrac attachments can be used on rear 3-point hitch? I know, or think I know, that you personally use only Ventrac manufactured attachments on 3-point hitch, but I think it would be useful to learn which products from other manufacturers/suppliers can be used and to also see these products demonstrated on the Ventrac. If viewers can see other brand attachments used on Ventrac, maybe this will make Ventrac appear more versatile, less exotic, and attachments available to be used with it more affordable, especially if they already have access to these other attachments. Right now it looks like once you purchase a Ventrac you are locked into using only Ventrac attachments in both the front and rear. Another suggestion is to show Ventrac towing a wood chipper, maybe together with bucket and grapple.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

That's a good question. I guess the 3 point connecters are pretty much the same. I'm sure you can mount other brand 3 point stuff on there, just not with the 3 in 1

[@DanielTorres-hu1zq]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions Do you think a Quick Attach, say from Goodworks Tractors or other attachments sold by Courtney, for example, can be used on Ventrac 3pt?

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@DanielTorres-hu1zq I don't have any firsthand knowledge on those brands

[@DanielTorres-hu1zq]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions Thanks.

[@arlisspropertyservicesllc5943]

The only drawback to non ventrac 3pt attachments is they dont get very far off ground I am told.

[@hinaenvironmentalsolutions5616]

Thought you had the landscape rake?

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I don't. I've been asking what can the Landscape Rake do that the Power Rake cannot...

[@hinaenvironmentalsolutions5616]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions sift out the rock, stone and debris. Also smoother finish grade. I love mine

[@stevenwingate8988]

Can you advise an example of companies that will insure my Tractor and company. Or is this 2 separate policies Thanks

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I wish I could be more helpful. We use MMG but they only underwrite in certain states. I would recommend contacting your local insurance provider and they should be able to point you in the right direction

[@davidpennington9125]

This is why I like the comment section you could take a zero turn on a 30 degree slow you should a lot of things where just because you can do something doesn't necessarily mean should

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Lots of people hurt or worse taking their zero turns where they shouldn't go

[@justinarnold7840]

Maaaannnn, you asked for it. I love Ventrac and I love my Ventrac. I got mine for just maintaining my property of only 5.6 acres, but 3 acres is sloped at 21 degrees. So I have the tough cut, landscape rake, power bucket and grapple, 7 ft dozer blade and finally the new power rake. We got quite a bit of snow last week and I was out plowing neighbors driveways so the propane company could get in there and fill up their tanks for generators, or help people get out to go to the store because our power was off too. I’ve been out with my grapple and chainsaw cutting up downed trees with neighbors. I mean this machine is more than worth it where I live, just for personal use. So my questions are, what attachment should I get next? I’ve been eyeing the stump grinder and the fine cut. I have hundreds of trees on my property and the stump grinder would come in handy for that but the fine cut leaves those beautiful lines….also, I am interested in what improvements you’ve helped Ventrac make. Did you have anything to do with the hydraulics on the new power rake? How have they not sent you anything yet for free? A shirt, a hat, nothing? I posted a picture on their Facebook page and they sent me some swag. Great videos, looking forward to more!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

OK, I have a couple hats, some key rings, pens etc. Those were given to you a couple years ago during one of several video shoots they did with me and they're planning on coming by again. I meant I don't get any equipment or accessories for free or even a discount. We pay for everything just like everyone else does. As far as the Power Rake, Ventrac knows that I LOVE staying in my seat as much as possible and using all of those fancy controls and extra hydraulics! Yes, I suggested a hydraulic height adjustment but I ALSO wanted a hydraulic CAMBER adjustment too! I guess I'll have to wait for that one. There have been a few design changes that Ventrac has made over the years as a direct result of my input. Nothing major really, just a relocation of the fuel pump and filter, some design changes on a couple of attachments and the latest, switching to the serrated flange bolts in place of the old Allen button head type

[@justinarnold7840]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions well I appreciate your suggestions to ventrac. I would have kicked myself if I had bought the old power rake and then they came out with the hydraulic height adjustment. Soooo handy. So which attachment should I get next?

[@henryoppermann134]

@@justinarnold7840 i have those attachments, but I would add the blower to clean leaves. I have hundreds of trees and the fall is no sweat for me know.

[@justinarnold7840]

@@henryoppermann134 thank for the suggestion. Sometimes I dismiss the blower because I’m not sure how well I would do with it. Plus I have a lawn sweep I just hook up to the back of it and it does a great job with my pine needles.

[@henryoppermann134]

@@justinarnold7840 I have no pine needles here, all Oaks and poplar….so not sure how it would deal With a pine mat…..interesting to see what perhaps GCI turf thinks about that since he is in the south….

[@rooster3019]

I have NO buyer's remorse. I only take care of my own property, about steep 20 acres. I have the 4500Z without the 3 point, but otherwise well fitted. The newer model 72" finish mower, the tough cut, the big broom, the boom arm mower, and bucket with grapple. Per your demonstrations I added the mid weight kit and the great aftermarkey suspension seat. I plan to have a power rake and aerovater with sead box soon. Cha-Ching!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

SPEND THAT MONEY!!! :)

[@John1911]

Did the mid weight kit help with hills or some other reason?

[@rooster3019]

@@John1911 Hi John! On hills with front implement the mid mount weights act very mush as if you have a couple or three more notches on your weight transfer. In my case, I initially purchased them with the intent to add ballast to stabilize the HEAVY boom arm mower and that did work out well. All eight of my tires are ballasted with 7 gallons of winter grade windshield washer fluid plus a pint of Balistol each. That helped a grat deal too. My slopes tend to exceed the published approved limits at times (but NOT with the boom arm - 25 is as sloped as I will go with that).

[@tazmankb26]

Awesome video Bradley. It would be cool to know which attachments make give the most bang for the buck or where they make you money with your business. I'm slowly adding attachments (finish, tough cut, bucket/grapple, custom forks, sod cutter) but looking for the next one to add this year. No snow to speak of in my area (North Central Texas) so any of those would not be beneficial.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I've been thinking about making a video about this!

[@josei.puente6812]

I would like to see vantrac consider isntalling a seat that adjust to the terrain. The District for which I volunteer has a vantrac 4500y which is use to mow levee. After a little while you get tire sitting in one position when mowing levee. The District has seven miles of levee to mow.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I had thought about this as well, but would require a complete redesign of the current machine. The steering wheel and controls would need to move with the seat

[@charlesbelser7249]

Friend I could definitely make use of it but I am just a retired police officer on a state pension for only 20. years after retiring on disability . $40,000 + is a tough pill to swallow especially after buying a 100 HP tractor and 15 foot cutter etc to work my place . I would definitely like to have one but I can not justify that cost right now.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Ventrac has its place and it's certainly not for everyone. After my last combat deployment in 2003, I was barely able to walk and spent years in physical therapy at the VA. I bought my first Ventrac in 2005 and it was the most awesome mobile device I had ever seen. I could just sit on the compact machine and work to controls to do outdoor tasks that I never thought I would ever be able to do again. Look where I'm at now

[@jarretandrade6189]

Have you heard anything about an air conditioning cab being offered eventually? I'm in the south and its a must have.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

That's a question for Ventrac. This has been asked a few times and the tractor isn't big enough for something like this. The main reason I don't have a cab is because is changes the slope rating

[@jarretandrade6189]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions thanks for the quick reply,I guess the canopy and fan will have to do.

[@brianhunley5302]

Right now I’m trying to decide between a ventrac and a small Kubota for my little homestead. I could justify the cost if I started a small side business but I have a friend that does that and I don’t want to step on his toes.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

The Ventrac is way more capable than a conventional tractor by a longshot

[@markmatthes4964]

What do you think of the 4231 turbo diesel

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

That's back when the diesel was really good! Over recent years, the new emissions laws have robbed the diesel of a LOT of power and torque, making it Ventrac's weakest engine offering

[@johnjacobjinglehimerschmid3555]

I've looked at the cost and as a simple homeowner no can't say the cost is worth it. However, I can see if I make a living doing landscaping how it could be well worth the cost. I've lamented over the fact that there are no longer implement makers that do multi use equipment. I've always wished that there was a yard implement that could do the following. 1. Mow 2. Rototill 3. Plow 4. Snowblow But all from a walk behind perspective. Something that has like the engine portion of rear drive tillers ( but it's removeable ) that then hitches up a front mower, or snow blower, plow etc etc etc.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

John, I know that it's only my opinion and each person is different. I don't recall if I mentioned this in my video, but I had already bought 2 Ventracs, a 2005 4200VXD and a 2016 4500Z long before I started a business with them. I was using them to maintain our 50 acre Northern Maine farm estate that had been potato fields decades before and had since turned into wilderness. People would drive from miles around to see the beautifully landscaped yard space and other areas I was opening up as I was managing the woodland to create a healthier forest. I would agree that for the homeowners with small properties, it is a large investment that just can't be justified.

[@johnjacobjinglehimerschmid3555]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions I was just giving my two cents. I agree you have a business and make a living off them. I was just lamenting the lack of like a "JACK" of all trades type thing for homeowners. My hard is small enough that I could push mow it all. But I have a small 28 or 30 inch mower ...But then I have a rototiller and a snowblower. And boy wouldn't it be sweet to have a walk behind tractor ( implement with powered wheels and engine ) that could be attached to say a tiller head / mower head / snow plow head / snow blower head / mower deck. I think ages ago TroyBilt had something along this line. If I could afford a Ventrac .... I'd get one.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I wasn't always making a living off of them. I'm retired and my Ventracs and attachments were my hobby that turned into a legitimate business years later@@johnjacobjinglehimerschmid3555

[@johnathonwerner1549]

I own a small lawn care and snow removal business and I've been really thinking of going to one of those are they work it

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

This is strictly my opinion, but when it comes to lawn care, it's hard to take a $40K machine (4520Z, dual wheel kit and finish mower) and be price competitive with those whose overhead is so much less with cheaper mowers. That's why I do NOT market "lawn care" with this equipment. The same goes for snow removal. It's a saturated market filled with those who are hoping their services are the lowest cost! Find a specialty market like steep slopes, soft terrain, etc. where the "other guys" can't go. Good customers expect to pay MORE for unique capabilities

[@markrobertson6491]

What did you spend all in, attachments includide

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I've bought 3 tractors and over 20 attachments over the years. I currently have 2 tractors and 18 attachments. I would need to add up everything I've spent on this brand. It's well past 150K but my wife and I agree that it's totally worth it

[@whywouldigivemyrealname5162]

Is this worth the money from a personal perspective instead of a business perspective. I've got about 10 acres of land with probably half and half wooded/field. My main applications will be brush cutting, rock/dirt/log movement, and tilling/gardening. I'm finding it hard to justify the upcharge knowing if I get a Ventrac + bucket + brush hog (or flail) + tiller I'm looking at the price of a new BMW. Comparing that vs something like a Kubota with bucket + offset flail + tiller at the price of a new Honda and it's hard to swallow the cost. I want a Ventrac and have spent around a year trying to justify the cost. Even with this video I'm not sure I can. This tool isn't going to make me any money. It's purely to make my life easier. Also, have you ever had any issues with the low ground clearance of a Ventrac? Because I have so much wooded area, I assume I'll be using this to move trees and gather firewood. I can't guarantee I'm never going to hit a log or stump hidden by leaves :D.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I had two Ventrac tractors and numerous attachments to maintain our Northern Maine farm estate of more than 50 acres before we even started our family business and relocated to SE Pennsylvania. They are totally worth it! Sure, you can save money by going with a different tractor but you just don't get the versatility or the safety of a Ventrac. I sure wish I was recording videos back then. We would have had an amazing homesteading channel!

[@whywouldigivemyrealname5162]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions That makes sense. One thing I'm unsure about is the power bucket capacity vs a traditional tractor. As far as I know, I'm not going to be moving anything absurdly large, but have you noticed any issues with the bucket's ability to perform tasks you do? I'll probably mainly be using the bucket to move logs and stone. I don't have a fully functioning compost yet, but I expect it handles dirt just fine.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@whywouldigivemyrealname5162 I think that Ventrac rates the Power Bucket capacity at 600 pounds, which is a conservative rating. Keep in mind that even the low pressure tires of the Ventrac can easily handle this weight. Put on the duals for even better performance and less squatting

[@32plug]

Mine has been nothing but problems from day one! Hope you have a good tool box.😢😢😢😢

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I'm not a Ventrac rep, just a guy who's been using these machines for over 15 years. I perform most of my own maintenance and both my machines have been over the top reliable

[@32plug]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions man I sure wish mine was. I’m a freak about maintenance. I still use my 1st mower I bought new to this day. 48 in scag walk behind manufactured in 1994! So I take care of my stuff. But this Ventrac may be the death of me.🤪

[@go5582]

Hi handsome. Great video. I'm going to look into a 2023 ventrac. Thanks.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Thanks for watching. I can't help it...I just keep getting better looking with age 🤣

[@lewmcclain2979]

I failed to mention that i own a 4500Z.Thanks, Lew.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

and you're no doubt enjoying every minute of it :)

[@DonaldRak-ku6bi]

Hi from Donald ,I was considering small compact tractor with front end loader and claw, belly mower, Okay cash wise i be getting really close to Ventrac in Cost, but one thing Ventrac out do is 6 wheels - all wheel drive thats big difference in stability and not tearing up grass and area, but what like too see is small back- hoe attachment on it. My thought it will work with it one lever at time, comment back on this to me.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Ventrac tried this years ago and felt that their prototype didn't perform well enough to market but some guys have fitted backhoes to fit their machine

[@georgiaslopecutters]

My business is also only Ventrac based as yours is. Maybe we can talk sometime. I’d like to pick your brain on marketing ideas and things you have tried. We’re in different areas, so not competitors…

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Sure, give me call. How many attachments do you currently have? I meant that I don't know of any other family business that is Ventrac only with the vast array of attachments that we have. I know a few people out there who only use a Ventrac but then only use it for mowing type services

[@georgiaslopecutters]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions I have the bucket, tough cut, 72, power rake, larger brush, and blower. No 3 point yet but going to get that installed this spring, along with a grapple for the bucket.

[@charlesbelser7249]

Not if you are not making money with it daily and if you are just using it on private property it is just a bit too expensive . If was 25% cheaper though , I would likely get one and 2-3 attachments to deal with some steep places here.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@charlesbelser7249 remember that I had 2 of these on my farm estate in Northern Maine long before I used them to make a single cent after I moved to Pennsylvania. These machines were worth their weight in gold for all i could do with them and are worth even more to me now that I use them for my family business

[@ajjackson741]

I love your videos and the direct focus of abilities of each attachment. Do you have a routine for maintaining the attachment connection aspects such as the slides, the hydraulics etc

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Thanks! The routine for hoses and connections are very basic. I'm not sure what you mean by "slides" but the hitch arm connection is simple and trouble free. Each attachment has it's own quirks, nuances and learning curve for maintenance and real world application

[@ronweber4508]

I wish they had a backhoe/excavator, quick attachment option.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Ventrac tried this years ago but didn't pan out

[@Charliemmafan]

I wish I had a Ventrac and all those attachments like you have but it's just all way too expensive!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

My wife and I have invested heavily in this brand over nearly 20 years. My first Ventrac, which I still have, is a 2005 4200VXD and is still an amazing machine.

[@petebusch9069]

I want to justify one of these but can't even come close. From my perspective not having operated one it appears these do well on hills but that's about it. The attachments are very very expensive and only work on these machines. If your on flat ground I just don't see the point. I really like the idea of a standard 3 point hitch that will fit many many attachments no matter the brand. Your going to be 75k into one of these machines with typical attachments that your going to need. Its the attachments that kill you.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

It's true that I have a lot of money invested in these. Two Ventracs and 19 attachments is a small fortune but I look at the capabilities I have, the relative light footprint of the machine and it's a combination that my customers really love, knowing that I can do specialized work without damaging their beautiful lawn

[@petebusch9069]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions Hey if you can be profitable in a specialized area then great. This machine is very specialized and when trying to justify it in a regular application it just doesn't pan out, all least that's how I see it.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@petebusch9069 I agree in that you shouldn't buy a Rolls Royce to try and compete with guys using Camry's

[@petebusch9069]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions Not sure about that and would be willing to bet if I was in the Camry and you were in the RR I would kick your butt all day long on the track. Money doesn't buy skill.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@petebusch9069 Money doesn't buy skill, that's right. A good race car driver can still drive a regular car beyond what any average person can, but give him a race car and he's even better! In the same way a craftsman or an artist can do good work with average tools but give them a GREAT tool and their work will be unsurpassed. That's me, I'm an artist, with wood, with painting, charcoal, etc. I also sculp landscapes, mainly precision grading projects such transforming bumpy, ugly yards into something so nice that the customer is afraid to walk on it at first. It's not just bringing in new topsoil, raking it over and covering up a bumpy problem like any other equipment with a bucket. That cannot be done nearly as nicely as I can with the Ventrac and the skillful operation of the Power Rake.

[@acfuller86]

Ventrac was my solution to not hiring and managing employees. Haven’t looked back.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

That aspect ALONE makes the Ventrac a sound investment!

[@bernardmccann7676]

Great machine but over priced engine is Kubota which they would have done a supply deal on drives etc would be 500 % markup nothing against machine but price is excessive by the way I have one and looking at buying another one

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

So in other words, expensive but worth it 😊

[@shawnn1015]

But why is a Ventrac worth 50% more than a Steiner?

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

It is really 50%? I don't keep up with the Steiner side. It seems to be true that prices have gone up significantly since 2020

[@evershawn]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions When I was looking at just the machines without any upgrades the Ventrac was around 30k and the comparable version of Steiner was around 21k (this is before any negotiating, just dealer advertised prices). That's around a 50% price difference. Seems like they're both high quality machines with very similar capabilities. I just don't understand why people would pay so much more for a Ventrac...

[@zaineridling]

Why are circling the garage? I'm dizzy from trying to follow the merry-go-round effect. Now, what's this about some fool thinking their little john deere is better? One hour in the VenTrac seat and he'll be begging the dealer for an order! 😁

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

That's usually the case :)

[@jdog2790]

How come these video reviewers dont talk about the prices for replacement parts. Its not worth the money. An alternator for a 4500z is $680. Think I am exagerating...call for prices yourself. WOW! Thats more than a car alternator. Mowing side ways on a hill with 8 wheels it still slides sideways. Still need to up and down just like every other mower. These are good for flat field land owners. Do not buy these for golf course or any commercial use. They are not worth the money. Lets talk about the tightly packed hydrollic hoses that dry rot after heavy use. You need to break down more than half the machine to replace one hose. 8-12 hour job. If this machine runs for 3 hours on a golf course or some other large operation you better bring some gas cans. It uses some fuel. We have also had fuel issues that have been hard to diagnose. Replaced all fuel lines, carb, pump, filter, and removed/cleaned tank. We have also replaced seat sensor, Fuel just cuts off multiple times mid use. All replacement parts recommended replaced by a Ventrac mechanic. Not sue what else to replace maybe the control module. Sure thats a pretty penny too. Sure they have multiple attachments, but let me ask this. Would you use a swiss army knife for a big job or would you get the proper tools?

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Jdog, I appreciate your comment and my response is this... -In my nearly 20 years of Ventrac ownership and numerous thousands of hours of seat time, I've rarely had to replace parts. The reliability of my Ventrac tractors has been phenomenal! As such, I've never given it a thought to talk about the expense of replacement parts since I've hardly spent any money on them! -Slipping sideways on a hill? You're either not using your weight transfer correctly or you're running with your tire pressures too high! -Dry rotting hoses? I've only replaced a single hose in all my years and hours of Ventrac use. -Fuel consumption? The 4500Z, 3 cylinder Kubota gas uses about 1.6 gallons per hour. The 4500N 3 cylinder Fuel Injected Kubota is about 1.2 gallons as is the 3 cylinder diesel. Is that excessive? In my opinion no. My Ford F250 Super Duty V10 burns about 7 miles per gallon when I'm hauling my trailer with equipment and I certainly don't complain. I have that truck because it runs great and can pull a house down. I don't really expect or care that I don't get the fuel economy of a Prius. -For larger jobs, a Ventrac won't move dirt like a Bulldozer can. It won't grind stumps as fast as a 300 HP Carlton either. It can't even lift as much weight as a mid size John Deer. What it CAN do is go places that no one else can safely go and go there without causing turf damage that so many homeowners hate! After I'm done grinding a stump I can perform a beautiful grade and seed that location with either my Aera-Vator or Primary Seeder and that's just for starters. I have 17 attachments and can do things that no one else can do with traditional equipment. Some guys need their one trick pony but that's not me. I'll keep my Ventrac, thanks.

[@petebusch9069]

Yeah, its clear this guy buys these as a collection and not practicality. Don't ever mix the two if your attempting to get something done at a reasonable price.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

In point of fact I buy them because they are VERY practical from my perspective. Ventrac isn't for everyone but I give a lot of food for thought in this video based on how I use them and the return I get on the investment. How much would it cost to buy standalone equipment that would replace everything I can do with my Ventrac and attachments? That's the big question

[@janstolk486]

even if the ventrac was worth the money , you have the problem that nothing fits it and you have to buy very expensive implements !

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

I don't have an issue with that. I have nearly 20 attachments for it and they do a phenomenal job

[@jerrycline3731]

I am a ventec technician they are buy far a mechanics night mare they are a piece of crap over valued

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

As a Ventrac Technician, are you also a Ventrac owner? I've been working on my own Ventrac machines for nearly 20 years. Although I've worked on easier equipment, none were nearly as capable as these little beasts

[@jamesgross4833]

No, it isn’t. Underpowered and the tired are absolute dog turd. Rough cut 1” diameter? Sure and go get 8 tires patched. Spent a lot, and disappointed. Good on a slope, if you aren’t trying to cut while you drive.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Are you speaking from personal experience? If so, I'm really sorry to hear that. I've been beating on these machines for 18 years and they have an excellent track record with me

[@jamesgross4833]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions 100% personal experience, unfortunately. The tires can’t follow where the rough cut is capable of cutting. I’m tired of patching and filling the tires. Had it for 3 seasons and am looking for a replacement. Barely 29 hrs on it. Like I said it is great on a side slope, but if you engage the mower going up a steep hill (specifically the finish mower) it robs the power to the wheels on a hill to the point where I nearly stall. It’s a great idea, but has some real weak links in the chain, and that ultimately makes it a pain in my fanny.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@jamesgross4833 Which model and what engine do you have in yours? In all my years of owning and running these things, I have never heard a story to the severity of yours. I'm even running with a LOT of extra weight, ballasted tires, extra suitcase weights, etc. The empty weight of a 4500Z is about 1,650 lbs but mine weighs well over 2,000 empty, plus an attachment, plus I usually have a bucket on the 3 point, plus me. That's about 3,000 pounds my 3 cylinder is hauling around. I do wish I had more power but the 33HP and 51TQ does a pretty good job

[@jamesgross4833]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions I have the kubota gas engine. Power struggles happen on steep hills using the finish cut side eject mower deck. To a lesser extent when rough cutting my steep pond embankment with the rough cut. The tires I’m running are the field tires, which the dealer said would be best for my application. I cut a large field with the rough cut that made me pucker on my MX5800 with the brushhog. Also cut my lawn with a very steep grassy hill using the finish blades. As an aside, I originally bought the Kubota diesel. Damned thing was smoking and running the power right down trying to cut the grass. Told the salesman to pack it up and take it back with him. He ended up upgrading me to the Kubota gas. I still wasn’t thrilled but at least she cut, albeit slow and with some struggle.

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@jamesgross4833 The diesel is a comparatively weak engine, getting only 25HP and 42TQ compared with the 32.5HP and 51TQ which is a VERY noticeable difference. Even the 2 twin cylinder engines get more power and torque than the diesel

[@scottbrewer2617]

Disagree, Ventracs are just getting too expensive!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

Scott, have you demoed one?

[@scottbrewer2617]

@@bluecordterrainsolutions I own 2 and 20 attachments. My friend just bought a new car for 23,000. How does it cost 30 to build a small tractor? Flail mower is 10 grand!

[@bluecordterrainsolutions]

@@scottbrewer2617 quality costs money. I can guarantee you that your friend's $23,000 car is ok but not as good as one twice as much from another reputable manufacturer...AND if you have a Ventrac already, then you know it's worth it...or you SHOULD know :) There's a reason you paid that money for two of them and 20 attachments. It sounds like your garage looks a lot like mine with all the Ventrac Red in there!