Pristine CTD. Extra cab, short bed, 2wd, SLT. Factory tow/haul package, leather heated seats, heavy insulation package. Rebuilt HX 35/40, Dap injectors, full gauges, PacBrake, Dynamic Transmission vb/servos/accumulator/strut/band/triple disc. Soft tranny lines, 40k trans cooler, lift pump, gooseneck hitch (never used), class 5 tow hitch, tonneau cover, air bags, re- geared to 3.73’s, 3rd Gen brakes with 17" rims Rust free CA truck located in Chico CA, 100 miles north of Sacto. I built this to
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Price: 16000
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Location: Chico CA 95973
Hey all,
As some of you know, my wife and I purchased a decent sized country property almost 2 years ago. We have about a 1500ft gravel drive with quite a steep incline to get into the upper drive. The entire drive is downhill in varying degrees, so its usually not to bad to get out, however, coming back uphill doesn't always work out as well. We acquired an AWD compact SUV for my wife and it has done very well this year, but all the same, with the weather in KY as of the last few weeks (two snows dropping over a foot in a few hours). Last year was less snow at once, but more over the course of winter. Our driveway has been less than desirable for traversing during both. I had to park my work car in a garage belonging to my neighbor as it was in no way going to make it any further unless I drug it to the house with the truck.
I digress, unlike the roads, my driveway received no cleaning via anything except me and a shovel on the concrete part. Anyway, I am trying to decide what I would like to use for snow removal in the future and wanted to get your all's take on my options. These are all feasible, some much quicker than others, and each in my opinion with pros and cons.
Truck: As I see it, the truck with a plow is a money maker if I choose to use it for that, but regardless when I need to use it, I can be in a warm environment and get the job done. The plow can be set off in the shop when not needed and takes up probably the least space of any of the equipment. I just hate to put one on my truck, as I like to work my truck as often as possible but not really by means of a plow, but I don't see the purpose of buying another beater truck just for a plow. I could possibly get one for my off road cherokee too. A few options apply here.
Case 570 Tractor: Tractor is old, but runs good and the diesel engine was rebuilt not even 500 hours ago. Tractor has a bucket on the front and a few different implements for the back including a grader blade. Will require some work to get into what I would consider good mechanical condition (brakes, hydraulic fitting leak, etc). Can pick it up pretty cheap, but no enclosed cab and takes up more room in the shop. I suppose I could clear some local drives in my area for a little cash... but not my idea of a good way to spend cold winter days. Can easily use around the property for many things.
Skidsteer (bobcat): My personal favorite option would be this, but unfortunately its the most expensive option also. The uses for a bobcat are limitless, and the after work.....work options are many to be had from light excavation to snow removal, and of course it would serve every purpose the tractor would in a more useable option. Downside, I would almost have to use it for other work to make the investment worthwhile.
Utility wheeler w/plow: I am sure I could acquire one a decent price and I know Mike uses one on his property. Obviously the ATV would be used for recreation, general quick trips around the property outside of plowing snow and could be parked right up at the house in days when weather is going to be getting bad, so its a simple hop on and start.
Plow for Zero Turn: I don't know a whole lot about these but have seen a few videos of them and know they are the cheapest option. I have some pretty nasty tractor/chevron tread tires on my mower but find it hard to believe this would do very well in snow. Maybe someone has some experiences with one.
So lets hear it.