Recent content by randdyarroyo

I’d start by comparing the cutter’s required GPM and PSI with your excavator’s auxiliary hydraulic specifications. If other functions become weak whenever the cutter runs, it could be a flow-sharing or pump-capacity issue. A hydraulic technician can help determine whether you need flow control...

In my experience, a small hydraulic leak showed up first, then the machine started moving unevenly. Catching it early definitely helped keep the repair cost down.

I think lower ground pressure is one of the biggest advantages. CTLs can work on soft, muddy, or sensitive surfaces with less damage than many wheeled machines. Add their stability and attachment options, and they become useful across a surprisingly wide range of projects.

It really depends on how the machine is used. Fleets that run equipment hard every day seem to have fewer emissions issues than machines that sit idle or only do light-duty work. I'd be comfortable with a newer model if it has been well maintained.

If you're already looking at Ritchie Bros., I'd say it's definitely worth trying. I've found the auction format to be fair, and the prices on used tools have been competitive. Between the detailed listings and the variety of inventory, I've had much better luck there than with random Marketplace...

The asphalt layer acts as a smooth, stable base for the concrete. It helps create uniform support, improves drainage, and reduces the risk of cracks caused by uneven settlement. If the concrete eventually wears out, adding a new asphalt overlay is often faster and less expensive than replacing...

If you already swapped the controller and checked the wiring, I'd put pressure gauges on both the forward and reverse clutch circuits. If forward pressure comes up immediately at startup regardless of the lever position, the control valve or clutch modulation valve is probably hanging up internally.

Have you checked for fault codes? On the ZX-3 series, travel speed control relies on inputs from pressure sensors and the controller. A failed sensor or broken harness can keep the machine locked in low-speed travel mode. I'd inspect the connectors around the travel pressure sensors and...

For me, it was a dozer. I was a little hesitant about buying equipment online, but Boom & Bucket's inspection process helped ease my concerns. The machine arrived in excellent condition and has been performing reliably on multiple job sites. My advice is to look for listings with comprehensive...

In my experience, the key is to start the permit process as early as possible. Every state has different width, height, and weight thresholds, and some take much longer to approve permits than others. I always verify the dimensions of the load myself before applying because even a few inches can...

I think these assurance programs are more valuable than people give them credit for, especially if you buy remotely. I’ve personally had positive experiences with both IronPlanet and Boom & Bucket. IronPlanet handled a dispute for us on an excavator where the engine hours turned out to be...

One thing I really like about Boom & Bucket is that good deals actually show up pretty regularly if you monitor the listings. I recently saw a late-model Bobcat skid steer with very low hours priced way under comparable machines on Facebook Marketplace. The detailed condition reports make it...

If it stalls ONLY when hitting hydraulic relief, I'd suspect the pumps are staying fully stroked because the controller isn't getting proper feedback. 0V at most solenoids/sensors is not normal. I'd start with: Controller grounds 5V reference short somewhere Bad pump controller Broken wire in...

Honestly, one of the better things about Boom & Bucket is that the listings don’t feel sketchy or incomplete. A lot of equipment marketplaces have blurry photos and barely any info, but Boom & Bucket seems to put effort into quality listings. I haven’t purchased yet, but I’ve spent a lot of...

For me, Boom & Bucket felt like a middle ground between buying from a dealer and taking a gamble at auction. The inspection process gave me more peace of mind, especially for low-hour equipment where you want to be sure the condition matches the hours. It definitely felt less risky and more...