@RoamingGnome Your Case 430 is bigger than this and could dig more and faster. Our plans are to build something there, where we'll move. After a lot of pondering I had to accept that the trencher and D100 backhoe plus the Case 644 loader are not very suitable to tackle a foundation and full septic system. With the Case 680E it would be a breeze to do all that but it doesn't fit in a shipping container to take it overseas sniff sniff
.
Obviously there's a lot of pressure to sell the equipment that this machine replaces, but will keep the 444 with a full set of attachments, of course. So, yes, the 644, trencher, D100 backhoe, 680... all will go on the market.
@JSinMO good eye, indeed, that's what I meant in my first post and I put the picture up on the trailer on purpose for shock value.
The trailer in fact does have a 6000 lbs axle, but 3500 lbs hubs and wheels, and the tractor does weigh 4000 lbs. I figured with the back of the tractor as close to the truck as possible, there would be weight shared with it on the trailer tongue, as I could see the rear of the truck pretty low. I went slowly, and stopped often to check for the hubs getting hot (they did when I brought home the trencher), but they stayed cool. I knew it's risky, and went slow, almost no traffic as I drove back in the evening, and the road was paved nicely, as I did check on the way there. At least that's what I was telling myself to not freak out completely. And I prayed hard on the way home! Still, as you said, I need to check this trailer now.
Jeff, I will post some video running it, but I can tell you that my first impression is a big WOW. The usability is just beyond my expectations or anything I tried before. Smooth engine, no exhaust smell, smooth movement on the loader and backhoe, but it seems really strong. This model apparently is way overbuilt, on purpose. The thickness and heft of the main parts is impressive. It digs, it pushes hard, has 3 ranges of speed, plus 4x4, rear diff lock, and power steering. Like Dave said, am I changing careers? Definitely this is not a tractor for a lowly hobbyist like me, but I think it'll come in handy if I can take it with me overseas.
And it's
@FUTZ 's fault really, he told me he has a B26.