Recent content by MichaelThompson

We looked into RBFS when purchasing equipment last year. What stood out was the convenience of handling financing and equipment purchase together. It saved time, but I’d suggest reviewing the total financing cost carefully and comparing a few options before signing.

Staying organized is probably the biggest help. I usually try to check permit requirements early and confirm the route before scheduling the haul. Regulations can vary a lot by location, so planning ahead seems to save a lot of last-minute issues. Interested to hear how others handle this as well.

Honestly sounds more electrical/control related than a straight hydraulic failure to me. I had a Deere excavator years ago that acted almost the same way and it ended up being a bad ground and damaged wiring near the pump controller. The machine would idle fine, but as soon as hydraulics loaded...

From what I’ve seen while browsing Boom & Bucket, the platform feels well organized and easy to navigate, especially when compared to other equipment marketplaces. The listings are presented in a clean and detailed way, which makes it simpler to understand what’s being offered without...

This looks like a solid update from John Deere. The HVAC cab, better ergonomics, and lighting upgrades seem useful for owners who spend long hours in the seat. Integrated hydraulics should also save time when changing attachments. With RB Global marketplaces showing steady demand for compact...

I've seen this kind of issue a few times over the years, and when it starts slipping after it warms up, it's usually a sign the transmission is getting worn out. It might run for a bit, but it rarely gets better on its own. You can try fixing it, but that can turn into a pretty expensive job if...

I’ve run into this on a couple older machines over the years. It’s almost never just a simple recharge like people hope. There’s usually a small leak that needs to be tracked down first. Learned that the hard way after wasting time and money. Good, straightforward advice here.

I'd say there isn't just one "best" dealer, it really depends on what you're looking for. I usually check multiple places before deciding. Boom & Bucket and IronPlanet are pretty solid for verified listings, while Facebook Marketplace can be useful for nearby deals if you're careful. I've also...

I haven't personally owned a PC60-7, but I've worked around a couple of them on job sites. One thing I've seen cause repeated hydraulic line failures is hoses rubbing against the frame or not being secured properly with clamps. Over time the vibration can wear them down faster than expected. It...

I've seen quite a few people recommend Kubota diesel units around that range. They seem pretty reliable and fuel efficient, especially the 1800 RPM models. A used light tower generator with a Kubota engine might also be worth checking out.

I'm still learning too, but what helped me at the beginning was using clear photos from different angles and being honest about the condition. Buyers usually ask fewer questions when the description is detailed. Also noticed items sell faster when the price is reasonable compared to similar...

I've actually used SmartEquip on a couple of machines we picked up after auction, and it turned out to be more than just a "nice to have." Being able to quickly look up compatible parts by serial number saved us a lot of guessing and wrong orders. The service history and maintenance tracking...

From my experience, inspection time can definitely make or break a deal. Purple Wave's windows can feel a bit tight if you like to take your time. That's where Ritchie Bros really shines for me - clearer listings, better inspection access, and a process that feels more buyer-friendly overall. It...

Ritchie Bros stands out because their process feels more established and dependable over time. The way their services are structured makes them an easy recommendation compared to others.

I'd say you're absolutely right. Ritchie Bros. really stands out because of how well their logistics are handled. The scale they operate at, combined with their experience moving heavy equipment efficiently, gives them a big edge over competitors. From what I've seen, that strong logistics...