GMC Driver
11-07-2005, 04:58 PM
In past years we have used a Stiener/Ventrac setup for our sidewalk clearing. While this equipment has served the purpose, and performed well, this year it seemed that something a little more weather proof be enlisted for the sidewalk crew. It also seems that every year there's more sidewalks to clear, and less time to do it.
This year the crew will be responsible for about 10 miles of sidewalks at two differing locations. At the second location, they will also have to clear 85 residential drives, ranging from 30 to 100 feet in length. This survey has grown consistently, and as they have committed to a multi-year contract, it made the purchase of this equipment easier. In three years time, there will be close to 150 driveways at this location alone.
While we own a skidsteer (Case 75xt), it was never been suitable for these drives, as many are alternative surfaces such as interlock or stamped concrete. As such, the possibility of scuffing rubber on these surfaces is enough cause to look for alternative equipment. The skidsteer will be used in it's same capacity as the loading machine at the yard, and as a snow relocator on sites.
So the search began - to look for something to fit on a 60" walkway, be useful enough on small drives, 4wd, capable of going through some significant drifts, and of course be comfortable to use for pronlonged periods. It also had to be something we could use in our summer operations. We settled on a Kubota tractor for a number of reasons. Many municipalities are using this same exact model throughout our region, with great sucess. The Kubota dealer is within 3 miles of our shop. The resale on Kubota exceeds most other manufacturers, at least it seems so around here. And they could give the best offer price wise.
This Kubota is a 3430 model with the factory cab. It was also equipped with a loader, a frame mounted quick-attach blade, and a 3pth 2-stage blower. This is our newest snow-fighter, and I am really looking forward to see how it will perform. It tracks just under 60", the blower is a touch wider @ 64". Total wieght is approximately 4500lbs. - a concern for the residents of this survey.
So hopefully this will do the trick. I know the sidewalk crew is already excited about the addition of this unit. Just a few kinks to work out - and we're ready (at least on the sidewalk end of things!)
This year the crew will be responsible for about 10 miles of sidewalks at two differing locations. At the second location, they will also have to clear 85 residential drives, ranging from 30 to 100 feet in length. This survey has grown consistently, and as they have committed to a multi-year contract, it made the purchase of this equipment easier. In three years time, there will be close to 150 driveways at this location alone.
While we own a skidsteer (Case 75xt), it was never been suitable for these drives, as many are alternative surfaces such as interlock or stamped concrete. As such, the possibility of scuffing rubber on these surfaces is enough cause to look for alternative equipment. The skidsteer will be used in it's same capacity as the loading machine at the yard, and as a snow relocator on sites.
So the search began - to look for something to fit on a 60" walkway, be useful enough on small drives, 4wd, capable of going through some significant drifts, and of course be comfortable to use for pronlonged periods. It also had to be something we could use in our summer operations. We settled on a Kubota tractor for a number of reasons. Many municipalities are using this same exact model throughout our region, with great sucess. The Kubota dealer is within 3 miles of our shop. The resale on Kubota exceeds most other manufacturers, at least it seems so around here. And they could give the best offer price wise.
This Kubota is a 3430 model with the factory cab. It was also equipped with a loader, a frame mounted quick-attach blade, and a 3pth 2-stage blower. This is our newest snow-fighter, and I am really looking forward to see how it will perform. It tracks just under 60", the blower is a touch wider @ 64". Total wieght is approximately 4500lbs. - a concern for the residents of this survey.
So hopefully this will do the trick. I know the sidewalk crew is already excited about the addition of this unit. Just a few kinks to work out - and we're ready (at least on the sidewalk end of things!)