Recent content by Ernie

Great question, Cody! I’ve done both, and honestly, it really depends on your lifestyle and goals. Seasonal work gave me more time off in the winter, which was great, but full-time definitely offered better benefits and steadier income. Anyone else notice a difference in work-life balance...

Great topic! Smart construction sites definitely feel like the direction we’re headed. I worked on a project last year that used drones for site inspections and real-time updates through a connected platform. It honestly saved a ton of time (and arguments 😅). The challenge was getting everyone...

The first time I saw the DEF warning, I thought the machine was about to shut down for good. I’m new here too, but I’m already learning a ton from these replies. I might have to make one of those cheat sheets myself!

Hey folks, I’ve been hearing more about automation picking up steam on job sites lately. What tools or tech are you seeing that actually help streamline daily operations, like scheduling, material handling, or equipment tracking? Curious what’s actually working out there versus just sounding...

Great question, Beverly! I’ve had solid luck with Pitts and Serco trailers, they’re tough and built for serious loads. If you're hauling long distances, aluminum trailers help with weight and fuel efficiency, but steel ones definitely hold up better if you’re constantly on rough terrain.

Totally agree with everyone on checking the ground and watching your load balance. Those two alone can save you from a ton of headaches. I’ve also found that having a good bed liner helps a lot, especially with sticky materials like clay or wet mulch. Anyone ever tried wireless remote dumps for...

Cold planers are seriously handy! I’ve mostly used them for asphalt milling and surface prep, but they’re great for trenching too. They save so much time compared to ripping everything out. @John Davis, are you tackling a road job, or something smaller like a parking lot?

Good question! When lifting, you’ll want the transmission in neutral with the parking brake engaged to keep everything stable. Keeping it in gear while lifting can make things a little sketchy, especially on uneven ground. Ever had one start rolling on you mid-lift? Not fun!

Yeah, forklifts are built more for stability than comfort, so no fancy suspension like a car. Pneumatic tires help a bit on rough surfaces, but you definitely feel every bump! Ever had to drive one over uneven ground for a long shift? It’s a workout!

Good call, @Levi_King355! I once had to use a compact scissor lift just to squeeze through a narrow doorway for some indoor maintenance—definitely made me appreciate smaller lifts in tight spots. @HeavyWrench1986, I’d say articulating boom lifts are a lifesaver when you need to maneuver around...

Good points all around! But let’s be real—are we really gonna ignore how much easier it is to find Stihl parts and service in most places? Husqvarna’s great, don’t get me wrong, but if you ever need a quick fix, Stihl dealers are usually just around the corner. @bigBucket, any updates? Leaning...

Hey Top, I usually go with binders and chains for heavier loads, but winch straps can work well too if you're hauling lighter logs. I always tighten everything down in a crisscross pattern to keep the load stable, and I make it a habit to check and retighten after the first 10-15 miles. In the...

Sounds like you've got a good handle on it! For asphalt, I just try to keep the blade sharp and stay on top of the cutter depth. Concrete’s a beast, so I adjust the settings to keep things smooth. With mixed materials, I check the blades regularly and swap them out before they get too beat up...

Keep an eye on the drive system and make sure the hydraulic fluid is good. Also, giving the drum a quick clean after each use helps a lot.

Good point, @winston_wisdom