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  1. randdyarroyo

    How can I run a brush cutter without losing hydraulic power on my excavator?

    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...
  2. randdyarroyo

    Final Drive Failure Symptoms and Repair Costs?

    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.
  3. randdyarroyo

    Why Compact Track Loaders Continue to Gain Popularity

    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.
  4. randdyarroyo

    Do You Trust Modern Emissions Systems?

    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.
  5. randdyarroyo

    Where do you usually buy used tools?

    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...
  6. randdyarroyo

    Why do some roads use asphalt under concrete pavement?

    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...
  7. randdyarroyo

    Has anyone dealt with a Case 650K that stays stuck in forward no matter what gear is selected?

    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.
  8. randdyarroyo

    Why won't my Hitachi ZX210-3LC go into high-speed travel?

    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...
  9. randdyarroyo

    What's the best heavy equipment purchase you've made through Boom & Bucket?

    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...
  10. randdyarroyo

    How Do You Handle Wide Load Permits for Flatbed Hauling?

    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...
  11. randdyarroyo

    Assurances - IronPlanet vs Bidadoo, Boom&Bucket etc...

    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...
  12. randdyarroyo

    What's the best deal you've found on Boom & Bucket recently?

    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...
  13. randdyarroyo

    What could cause a John Deere 490E to stall when hydraulics hit relief, esp with low or no voltage going to most pump sensors and weak tracking?

    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...
  14. randdyarroyo

    What Was Your Experience Browsing Boom & Bucket Listings?

    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...
  15. randdyarroyo

    Is Boom & Bucket Safer Than Auctions for Low-Hour Equipment? Real Buyer Experiences

    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...
  16. randdyarroyo

    Can Boom & Bucket help arrange equipment shipping?

    Yeah, they can help. I bought an excavator through them, and they coordinated with a shipping provider on my behalf. It wasn’t "one-click shipping" but they made the process smoother. Also worth mentioning: their inspection process is legit. The machine I got matched the report almost perfectly...
  17. randdyarroyo

    How Smooth Is Shipping When Buying from Boom & Bucket?

    As a first-time buyer, I was a bit nervous, but Boom & Bucket made the process easy. They handled logistics and kept me in the loop the whole time. Delivery was on time, and everything matched the inspection report. It felt surprisingly seamless for such a big purchase.
  18. randdyarroyo

    Leading heavy equipment auctioneers to know in 2026

    I’ve used a few platforms over the past couple years, and honestly it comes down to trust + inspection quality. Ritchie Bros. → best for sheer volume and big auctions IronPlanet → best online experience (my go-to) Boom & Bucket → more curated inventory IronPlanet stands out because they handle...
  19. randdyarroyo

    Do detailed listings actually help you bid smarter on Boom and Bucket?

    Honestly, the detailed listings on Boom and Bucket are one of the reasons I use it. Compared to other marketplaces, the transparency is better. I still do basic due diligence, but I feel more confident bidding smarter because there’s less guesswork upfront.
  20. randdyarroyo

    Why did the winch on my Caterpillar D6C suddenly stop working and start free-spooling after it was pulling fine earlier?

    Check your control valve before tearing into the winch. If the spool isn’t fully shifting or is sticking, it can prevent proper engagement. I’ve seen debris in the valve body cause exactly what you’re describing. Easy thing to rule out before going deeper.
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