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  1. George

    What’s the longest you’ve ever had a lift down for repairs?

    Most lifts are down a few days to a couple of weeks, but bad breakdowns with parts delays can last over a month. Renting a backup is usually the fastest fix.
  2. George

    How to move a Skip loader that won't start?

    If your skid loader won't start, here are the simplest and safest ways to move it: 1. Winch it onto a trailer. Use a winch to pull it up ramps Safe and controlled Best for transport 2. Tow it Use chains or straps Move slowly Only for job site use 3. Use another machine to lift/push Quick...
  3. George

    Best Heavy Equipment Financing Companies in the U.S. – Who Do You Recommend?

    If you're looking for heavy equipment financing in the U.S., a few names come up often; one that stands out is Ritchie Bros. Financial Services (RBFS). RBFS is strong because they actually understand the equipment market, not just lending. The process is usually fast and straightforward, with...
  4. George

    Would you trust Veritread for moving your excavator or dozer?

    I've used Veritread a couple of times-it's solid for getting quick quotes and comparing carriers. Usually get bids within a day. Carriers are generally vetted, but I still double-check reviews. They can help with permits and routing, but it depends on the hauler you choose. Pricing is...
  5. George

    Why does my JLG T500J boom lift platform tilt when raised, and are the counterbalance valves the issue?

    Working on a JLG T500J boom lift, the platform tilts upward when raised but levels again when lowered. Could this be a counterbalance valve issue, or should I check the leveling cylinder or sensors? Appreciate any insights
  6. George

    John Deere 245G RPM Specs. Is 1800 RPM too low for WOT?

    Hey everyone, I've been running a 2015 John Deere 245G LC for a bit now, and I've always had a gut feeling that the engine doesn't sound like it's reaching full song at wide open throttle (WOT). It just feels a little "lazy" compared to other excavators I've operated. I finally dove into the...
  7. George

    How much does it cost to rent a mini excavator?

    I've rented a few 3-ton mini excavators for cleanup and light grading jobs, and honestly, you're on the right track-that size is perfect for general site cleanup, trenching, and small grading work. For attachments, the one that made the biggest difference for me was definitely a grading (ditch...
  8. George

    nyone here using SmartEquip? Has it made parts sourcing and maintenance easier for your fleet?

    I've been looking into it for heavy equipment parts lookup and maintenance tracking, and it seems like it could really speed things up - especially with mixed-brand fleets. For those using it: Does it improve uptime? Faster parts ordering? Worth it for a small or mid-size fleet? Would love to...
  9. George

    What should I check if the driveline still spins when the power shuttle is in neutral on my Case 350 crawler dozer?

    It's worth checking filters, suction screen, and oil condition in case there's a restriction or aeration. If pressures check out, then you might be looking at dragging clutch packs, worn sealing rings, or internal leakage inside the shuttle. I'd confirm all the easy stuff with gauges and...
  10. George

    Best Ways to Motivate Crews on Long Projects?

    Small things like cold drinks, proper breaks, and recognizing good work really help keep morale up. :)
  11. George

    Can Boom & Bucket help arrange equipment shipping?

    Hey everyone, I've been checking out Boom & Bucket listings lately while comparing used heavy equipment options online. One thing I'm still trying to figure out is the shipping and transport side of things. If you buy a machine through Boom & Bucket, can they help arrange equipment shipping or...
  12. George

    Who is everyone's favorite shipping partner?

    S I've heard good things about Veritread for heavy equipment moves. Seems like a solid option when you need specialized hauling.
  13. George

    JMWOOD Auction Company is not just about auctions, I can buy a dozer right away.

    It's definitely a bit confusing when you first see those listings. J.M. Wood is a heavy hitter in the live auction world, but they've added more ways to buy recently, especially since they teamed up with Ritchie Bros R(B Global) last year. Since they are now part of the Ritchie Bros. network...
  14. George

    Best Tank Trailer Trucks for Petroleum Transport in 2026

    If you go with a 4-axle, make sure at least one is a lift axle. It saves a ton on tire wear and fuel when you're deadheading back empty.
  15. George

    What diesel generators do you guys recommend around 6000W? Anyone running a light tower generator?

    Finding a solid 6000W diesel is a smart move, especially if you're looking at long run times. Most people in this range swear by a Yanmar or a Kubota engine. They're basically the gold standard for small diesels because parts are everywhere and they're built like tanks.
  16. George

    Need help fixing an error warning on my Liebherr HS 853 HD monitor.

    Here's a quick checklist to try before you get too deep into it: Try a "Cold Boot": Kill the engine, flip the battery disconnect switch for about 5 minutes, and then restart. It's the classic "turn it off and back on again" trick that clears out those annoying glitchy logic errors. Give the...
  17. George

    How Do Interest Rates Impact Equipment Financing in 2026?

    Rates in 2026 aren't "cheap," but they're also not stopping the industry. The main shift is being more strategic about timing, cash flow, and asset selection.
  18. George

    How Has GPS Vehicle Tracking Helped Your Crew Stay on Task?

    From what I've seen on crews and fleets, the biggest day-to-day impact is visibility.
  19. George

    Hydraulic Hose Leaks and Failures, How to Prevent Downtime?

    What's worked best for me is doing quick routine inspections and fixing small wear before it turns into a burst hose. I always check for rubbing, cracks, loose fittings, or oil sweating at the crimps. Proper routing and clamping also makes a big difference, especially on boom or bucket lines...
  20. George

    Cat 953Z Won't Start. Anyone Run Into This Before?

    A lot of no-start cases on older track loaders end up being simple electrical faults - corroded terminals, worn key switches, or failed relays. Fuel contamination or plugged filters are a close second, especially if the machine has been sitting.
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