Are rock guards included with this equipment? I've noticed that some forestry packages come equipped with rock guards, similar to those found on standard dozers. Investing in this additional feature could potentially be a more cost-effective choice if you're satisfied with the machine.
Is anyone else experiencing issues with their machine's tracks getting off track? Could it be due to worn-out tracks? I always make sure to maintain the tension according to manufacturer specifications for caterpillar tracks.
Corey1966 inquired about potential issues with machine detracking and suggested that faulty tracks could be the cause. He mentioned keeping the tracks at specifications recommended by Caterpillar for proper tension. Also recommended running triple idlers both in the front and back, as this can greatly improve tracking performance.
I am using triples both in the front and rear of my setup.
Latest update: After testing out several new machines, the ASV 120 proved to be the top choice for my specific needs. Its performance far surpassed that of the caterpillar, leaving me thoroughly impressed.
The ASv boasts superior agility, but be sure to avoid loose rock and gravel to preserve your tracks. How do you plan to utilize your 299D?
Submit it to several websites and remove it.
You may find the ASV track loader parts from Track Loader Parts to be highly appealing. They offer free parts and service literature and are known for being a reliable source for parts. I have sent you a private message regarding this.
If you include detailed photos, pricing, and location information in your listing, you may find a buyer right here.
Corey1966 provided an update, revealing that they have decided to go with the ASV 120 machine after testing out various options. They were highly impressed with its performance, noting that it outperformed the Caterpillar. However, they were confused as they thought ASV was acquired by Terex, but after googling the ASV 120, they are now questioning if it is the same as the Terex PT110.
The product has been recently updated, and it was previously sold by Terex some time ago.
Terex has announced the sale of its controlling interest in ASV to the management team, a move that will have a significant impact on the company's operations and future direction.
The management team of ASV has been acquired by Terex, transferring controlling interest. If you're researching between a Cat 299D and a Bobcat T870, we'd love to hear from users who have experience with both machines to compare their performance. Let us help you decide which model is better suited for your needs.
My CAT 299D2 XHP is equipped with the mulch package and roof mounted cooler, making it a powerful machine for heavy-duty tasks on challenging terrain. When maneuvering on hills with a 2000 lb mulch head, be cautious as the machine may attempt to de-track if turning sharply. To enhance stability and performance, I utilize triple flange front and rear idlers for added traction and control.
Comparing Cat 299D vs. Bobcat T870 for Strength and Reliability: I own a CAT 299D2 XHP with a mulch package and roof-mounted cooler. When maneuvering on hills with a 2000 lb mulch head, it tends to de-track. I use triple flange front and rear idlers to prevent this issue. How does the T870 stack up against the 299D in terms of durability and performance?
When it comes to Bobcat equipment, we are cautious due to concerns about compatibility with third-party electrical attachments. The varying hook up configurations, such as 8 pin vs 14 pin setups, can make it challenging. For guidance on hook up variations, check out Skid Steer Genuis. It's important to note that a Cat 299D, 299D2, and 299D2 XHP are distinct machines with their own unique features and capabilities.
f311fr1 mentioned their lack of familiarity with Bobcats, particularly due to the challenges associated with using non-manufactured electrical attachments. They emphasized the complications arising from 8 pin vs. 14 pin hook ups, suggesting Skid Steer Genius as a resource for understanding hook up variations. Additionally, f311fr1 noted that a Cat 299D, 299D2, and 299D2 XHP are distinct machines.
What sets a 299D apart from a 299D2? Explore the key differences here.
According to f311fr1, Terex has sold its controlling interest in the management team of ASV. Despite this, Terex still maintains a 49% stake in ASV, with Manitex (specializing in bucket trucks) holding the majority 51% ownership. This means that ASV is not an independent entity, but rather jointly owned by two companies.
Coz inquired about the primary distinctions between a 299D and a 299D2 model. The attached CAT 299D and CAT 299D2 specs PDF files provide a comparison, revealing a significant difference in horsepower with 71 HP for the 299D and 95 HP for the 299D2 model. Explore the attachments for more details on these two machines.
User TracksCorey1966 shared their experience with running a Cat 299D equipped with a Fecon mulching head and a brush cutter. However, they have encountered issues with the tracks frequently coming off, especially while working alone in swampy areas. Tired of the inconvenience of having to bring in an excavator to reattach the tracks, they are now considering purchasing a new machine more suitable for their needs in low land areas with rocky terrain. They are seeking recommendations for reliable machines for this type of work. Another user recommends a Bobcat TL12 for forestry work, noting that track slip-offs are rare and can usually be addressed without leaving the machine.
Just sold the 299D with Fecon attachment and will be receiving a new ASV with Fecon attachment next week. Keep an eye out for updates!
I am curious about the durability of the undercarriage of this product. It is puzzling to me why there hasn't been a redesign to address this issue, which seems to be the only weakness. This concern has deterred me from making a purchase, especially since the terrain in our area is rocky. I've heard of people having to overhaul their undercarriage every one to two years at a cost of $10,000 to $15,000.
I have limited rock, gravel, and pavement on my property, and I don't anticipate putting in thousands of hours of use each year. This leads me to believe that I will not encounter any major issues. I am eagerly looking forward to receiving the equipment.
Corey1966 shared his experience with running a Cat 299D equipped with a Fecon mulching head and brush cutter. However, he encountered issues with the tracks constantly coming off, especially when working in swampy areas alone. This led him to consider getting a new machine that is more reliable in low land areas with rocks.
After trying out a 297C with similar running gear as an ASV, Corey found it to be a significant upgrade from his previous JCB 190. By replacing stock rollers with aftermarket steel ones, he faced challenges in removing tracks but found it to be a worthwhile trade-off for improved performance in rugged terrain. The 297C provided great traction for various tasks, although gravel surfaces posed some concerns. Despite this, Corey appreciated the machine's ability to handle brushing, mulching, fencing, and snow plowing effectively.
In summary, Corey seeks recommendations for a new machine that can perform well in challenging environments like swampy areas and rocky terrain. He values reliability and traction for tasks such as mulching and plowing, making it essential for his work.
I recently purchased a 299D2 XHP with only 33.7 hours on it, but I'm experiencing constant issues with the tracks trying to detach over my triple flange front and rear wheels. Despite greasing it to Cat specifications, I'm disappointed with the performance. I also bought an AFE Eco attachment, but had to return it due to safety concerns as it throws debris over 500 feet, even reaching the second-story window of a house. Considering switching to an ASV 120 or requesting a new machine from Cat. Any advice on resolving these issues would be greatly appreciated.
Corey1966 mentioned that they do not have a lot of rock, gravel, or pavement and do not put thousands of hours on their machine per year, so they believe they will be fine. They are excited to receive the machine.
They are interested in the performance of the ASV 120, as they are considering purchasing one themselves. They currently have a CAT 299D XHP with fully loaded tracks that pop all the time, which they dislike. They are really considering switching to an ASV and are curious about how it is performing for others.
MDR expressed frustration with their recent purchase of a 299D2 XHP, experiencing issues with the tracks constantly trying to dislodge. Despite keeping it well-greased to Cat specifications, the problem persists. Disappointed with Cat, they also returned an AFE Eco attachment due to safety concerns regarding debris projection. Contemplating switching to an ASV 120 or requesting a replacement machine from Cat. MDR seeks advice on resolving the track issue, noting that improper track tension could be the culprit. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.
It is important to exercise caution when using tier 4 engines, as they are prone to catching fire. I experienced my first fire incident in a rented ASV PT110, which I believe was triggered by a regen process. Due to this risk, I would not recommend owning a machine with these engines, especially for mulching purposes. Farmers in the industry are also expressing concerns about similar fire hazards in harvesting equipment, with potential implications for insurance coverage.
One user, mdr, inquired about the performance of the ASV 120. They mentioned their dissatisfaction with the Cat 299D XHP due to the tracks popping all the time. They are now considering switching to an ASV and seeking feedback on its performance. Some recommendations include looking for a used Cat 297 or ASV model without the regen emissions system. The advantages of the ASV, such as higher ground clearance and better balance, are tempting. However, the user is content with their Cat 297 despite the potential benefits of an ASV. The discussion also touched upon the dangers of regen emissions systems, with an incident involving a logging truck burning up due to a mechanical failure being mentioned.
After a technician adjusted the tracks and tightened them to the correct specifications, they became loose again in just a few hours. When I mentioned our plan to mulch full-time to the salesperson, I was advised against getting the Cat 297 model due to frequent undercarriage issues. Despite this advice, I ended up purchasing the Cat 299D2 XHP for mulching. I am left wondering why I was recommended this model, as it is now causing frustration with its performance.
I have only clocked around 800 hours on my 297, but I can attest that in the same amount of time using my JCB with similar undercarriage as your 299, I spent a considerable amount of time replacing tracks. One of my employees accidentally dropped a track while maneuvering in a field and hitting a rock. Despite the numerous bogies on the 297, mulch doesn't cause as much wear and tear as sand or gravel. The wider footprint provides greater stability, making tracks less prone to dropping. I wonder what reasoning your sales representatives had in mind for their recommendation.
If you're looking to improve your mulching process, consider using steel tracks for better efficiency and durability.
I also do a lot of fencing, which is why I prefer rubber tracks over steel tracks. The 7 series rubber tracks I found ride much smoother, and they are easier to drop than steel tracks. When working with logs and stumps, it's essential to have rollers to prevent the tracks from flexing or twisting. In my opinion and experience, rubber tracks are the way to go. I always make sure to be extremely careful with my hoe tracks when mulching to avoid dropping them.
With 3500 hours of use and steel tracks, my reliable mulcher is priced at half the cost of ones with rubber tracks. It excels in steep hill country where rubber tracks are ineffective. Not once has it thrown a track in 5500 total operating hours due to the challenging terrain.
Having the ability to use steel tracks can offer various advantages, such as cost savings compared to rubber. Is this cost difference applicable to skid steers or mulcher units? It's interesting to note that there are fewer pads or rails on steel tracks compared to Caterpillar or Komatsu machines.
THContracting stated that being able to use cork on steel tracks would be a significant advantage, especially at half the price of rubber. This raises the question of whether this comparison applies to a skid steer or an actual mulcher unit. The surprising fact is that despite the fewer pads or rails compared to a Cat or hoe, the 140 hp mulcher unit with single grouser shoes has lasted through 5500 hours with the original top and bottom rollers. In that time, it has only worn out two sets of chains and two sprockets, with the grousers ready to be transferred to the third set of chains for continued use.
I just had a conversation with my cat dealer, and he refuses to sell me a 297 XHP machine unless I buy it outright. I can't believe he's being so difficult - what gives?
It's essential to discuss any issues with your service manager or dealership directly. Your equipment must be suitable for its intended purpose, and this is their responsibility. A colleague experienced abnormal track wear on their new 297, but before confronting the service manager, a service bulletin from Cat confirmed the issue. If you are confident in your claim, stand your ground and don't be brushed off by a mediocre sales representative.
I appreciate the feedback I received. I am uncertain about the next steps. It seems there may be a need for an upgrade involving a shim kit and track re-adjustment, based on information from others who have faced similar issues. It is frustrating to encounter problems with a new machine. It feels like just my luck.
Apologies for reviving this discussion, but finding information on this topic can be challenging, so I wanted to share my firsthand experience. I own a 2015 Bobcat T770 paired with a Fecon mulching head, primarily used for fire mitigation in the gambel oak-covered terrain of the Colorado front range. This rugged landscape, characterized by steep, loose, and rocky conditions, caused my machine to completely detrack once and nearly do so multiple times thereafter. Consistently monitoring track tension during refueling revealed that the factory c-block tracks would often stretch or shift, affecting performance.
Struggling with the limitations of the OEM tracks and their inconsistent tension, I decided to switch to Prowler EXP tracks. Since the installation, which required no subsequent track tension adjustments, I have not experienced any detracking issues in over 600 hours of operation. The enhanced ground engagement of the new tracks may have also contributed to this improved performance. While my tracks are showing signs of wear and will likely need replacement soon, I understand this as a common cost of operating in challenging terrain.
One notable drawback of the T770 is its oil cooling system, somewhat lacking for heavy mulching tasks, and its rough handling on uneven surfaces. Despite these concerns, I chose the T770 over the larger 870 model for its superior power-to-weight ratio, crucial for efficient mulching on slopes. Currently, I am researching the ASV RT-120 Forestry model for potential future investment.
Overall, my experience with track replacement and machine selection serves as valuable insight for those navigating similar challenges in the field. Let's continue sharing knowledge and experiences within this community.