[Rich124]

Hi All,
I have 3 projects coming this year all of which are going to need dirt moved around so I want to put a FEL on my 445. Question is which one? Little buck, CTC, model 40 or something else? I no longer have time to build my own (I bought PF Eng. plans).

What is important to me is that the bucket can get up over the side of a pick up and dump. Much of the soil I move has to go away.

Thoughts?

Thanks

 

[LukeL]

The best option is the #40 for sure. But you have slim chances of finding one quickly. The Little Buck Loader is the cheapest currently. The LBL will dump into a pickup easily and at 1500 PSI will really lift an impressive amount. The CTC looks nice but the high price has always kept me from trying one. The other 2 I have used and enjoyed.

I also have the PF engineering plans sitting around waiting for me to get to them. I’d love to build one when I get the time.

BTW LBL now sells a kit as well.

 

[Timothy]

You might not have much success finding a 40 loader if you’re in a hurry. I’ve never used a CTC but I like that there’s a company still making loaders like that. The little buck or little bull loader is nice and since you were going to build one, you’d probably have the skills to just get the kit. Although I don’t know if that would save money in the long run. They aren’t the quality of a 40 loader but I never had issues with mine and I lifted several hundred pounds. And if you want it for mainly dirt you’d be fine.

 

[flymo]

One thing to be aware of is that the 40, in its stock configuration, is only rated for something like 200 pounds at full height. Depending on your soil and how wet it is, you may not be able to lift a full bucket over the side of a pickup.

 

[LukeL]

One thing to be aware of is that the 40, in its stock configuration, is only rated for something like 200 pounds at full height. Depending on your soil and how wet it is, you may not be able to lift a full bucket over the side of a pickup.

215lbs at pin. Less in the bucket. Pretty weak in comparison to the 45, even shimmed up in pressure. I believe it’s mostly due to smaller diameter cylinders. The LBL will outlift the #40, although it’s slightly less rigid.

Oh and the subframe for the 40 is a bear to install!

 

[flymo]

Yes, the 40 uses 1.5 inch boom cylinders and the 45 moved to 1.75 inch. I put 2 inch cylinders on mine and it will lift plenty, albeit more slowly.

I don't recall any particular challenges putting the subframe on, but it was a while back.

 

[LukeL]

Yes, the 40 uses 1.5 inch boom cylinders and the 45 moved to 1.75 inch. I put 2 inch cylinders on mine and it will lift plenty, albeit more slowly.

I don't recall any particular challenges putting the subframe on, but it was a while back.

It involves removing the bolts for the rear transaxle and replacing them with longer ones to accommodate the loader frame, as well as a couple large bolts in front that are hard to get to the back of. there's also a pesky little bar that connects the two sides underneath. It's not the end of the world at all- just not that easy either.

 

[flymo]

The hardest part of the job, as I recall, was removing the fender deck to install the loader-specific relief valve and neutral rod. I was working by myself and lifting the deck and seat is pretty awkward - would recommend finding a helper!