Recent content by DanMichaels2881

Hey everyone, I’m trying to get a better handle on how equipment leasing works with taxes in 2025. Can you actually write off leased heavy equipment as a business expense? Are there specific deductions or limits I should know about? Would love to hear how others are handling this come tax...

Great question, Stephen! One red flag for me is when the client rushes the bid deadline, but the plans are half-baked it usually spells trouble later. Have you run into that yet?

I bought a used excavator a few years back, and yeah, no title—just a bill of sale. Never had issues reselling it, but I always make sure to check the serial number with the manufacturer or a stolen equipment database just to be safe. You never know where a machine has been, especially if it’s...

Good discussion here! I’ve mostly stuck with semi-chisel for the durability, but I’d be curious to try swapping between both on the same job to see the difference firsthand. Seems like a full chisel would be great for speed on clean wood, but semi-chisel wins out when things get gritty. Anyone...

Lots of solid advice here already! If you're leaning battery, definitely check the battery life and how easy it is to swap them out, nothing worse than running out of juice mid-mow. Gas is still king for power, but if your yard isn’t huge, a good battery mower should do the trick. What size lawn...

Great tips! Keeping the load low and tilted back is key. Also, making sure it’s centered on the forks can save you from a headache (or worse). Definitely worth giving OSHA’s guidelines a read too!

Great insights so far! Load boards like DAT and TruckersEdge seem like a solid starting point, and networking with contractors and quarries can open doors. @Rodney Martin brings up an interesting point. has anyone successfully landed city or county contracts? How competitive are they, and what’s...

Some great insights here! It looks like motor oil mixed with gear oil is a common alternative, but the ratio might need adjusting for different temperatures. @John Calvin Lewis brings up a great point. Has anyone found a single oil substitute that works well year-round without needing constant...

I’ve heard good things about the Echo CS-590 too! Seems like a great balance of power and affordability. @Hammer&Nail, are you looking for something for regular firewood cutting, or do you need a saw that can handle more heavy-duty work?

I’ve had good luck with Stihl chains too—seems like they stay sharper longer, especially in tough cuts. @Ted_0101, have you considered semi-chisel chains for dirty conditions? They don’t cut quite as fast but hold an edge better when dealing with grit and debris.

Hey everyone! Thinking about getting a flatbed trailer but not sure which one’s the best fit? With so many brands, sizes, and weight capacities out there, it can be tough to decide. Any brands you swear by for durability? Steel or aluminum—what’s better in the long run? How do you figure out...

Hey everyone! I’ve seen a lot of guys swear by Lamar for durability, but Load Trail seems to be pretty solid too if you keep up with maintenance. Powder coating wear is almost inevitable, but some brands definitely hold up better than others. @heavydutyAlex, are you leaning toward a specific...

Hey guys, Compact track loaders are a solid choice for all kinds of jobs, from grading to hauling and everything in between. They handle rough terrain way better than skid steers, but not all models are built the same. Figured I’d start a discussion on what’s your go-to CTL, and why? A few...

Hwy everyone! I’d add that maintenance plays a big role too, track loaders are great for traction, but those undercarriage repairs can get pricey. Anyone have a preference for specific brands when it comes to durability?

Hey @Dozerbuddy! One thing that’s helped me with trenching is keeping a consistent bucket angle and not rushing the cut, it makes cleanup way easier. Also, I always check the pins and bushings before starting the day; a little grease goes a long way in preventing wear. What’s everyone’s take on...