CADPlans Corporation

Frequently Asked Questions

NEW Products Available from CADPlans Corporation
     

     
WHICH CADDIGGER SHOULD I BUY?
When we only offered the CADDigger Model 728, the choice of which machine was simple. We now offer 5 free-standing CADDiggers, Models 628, 728, 821, 831 and 841.

The basic difference is digging depth and digging force (ripping power at the bucket). Another important consideration is reach, how far the machine can reach the bucket horizontally behind the pivot point. You may only need the CADDigger Model 628 because you only need to dig 5 feet deep. But, if you need to clean out a pond or a ditch, the extra reach of Model 821 might be necessary. Pulling stumps and digging in extremely hard ground are other reasons for increasing the size of the machine you need even though depth is not important. The extra reach has one other important factor. Think how much area is under an 8 foot radius circle and then under a 12 foot radius circle. The larger area under the larger circle means more ground can be accessed with the larger machine without having to move the machine. This means more productive digging time and less time spent moving the machine. The advantages of the smaller machines are less initial cost and the machine can be stored in a smaller space.

SHOULD I BUILD THE 3 POINT OR FREE-STANDING CADDIGGER?
I always recommend the free-standing, but the 3-point versions have advantages. With the 3-point there is no engine to buy or maintain and in many cases there is no pump to buy. The 3-point stores in a smaller area. The freestanding is versatile. It will go places that would hang up a tractor (soft ground, tight areas with trees, through narrow gates, etc). The free-standing moves itself with the bucket like a crab walking. You have your hands on the controls so minor repositioning is quick. The conversion versions, Models 610, 710 and 810 offer the best of both worlds. Use them as a 3-point when that is best; add the pump unit when you need the free-standing capabilities.

CAN I USE A VERTICAL SHAFT ENGINE OFF MY OLD LAWNMOWER/GARDEN TRACTOR ON CADDIGGER?
These engines can be used, but there are no nice pump brackets available for this type engine to direct drive the pump. You must fabricate the bracket. We would design one for our customers, but there is a feature missing, commonality. The shafts and mounting of these engines are different for each model.

WHICH CADLOADER SHOULD I BUY?
CADLoaders generate the same question. Which one? 507, 907, 1007, 1207? CADLoader Model 507 was designed for the “typical” garden tractor. Usually 2 criteria have to be met for Model 507 to fit your tractor. 1.) 23” rear tires. Your tractor does not have enough traction to use the capabilities of Model 507 with tires smaller than this. 2.) Flat surfaces on the frame near the engine so you can bolt the brackets of Model 507 to your tractor. Horsepower is not a concern. Even the old tractors that have 8 hp have adequate power to operate Model 507. Turning the tires and lifting the bucket do not require much power. Modern tractors with 20 hp, or more, make quick work of mowing grass; but, in fact, the only need for this high horsepower is turning the mower. Customers with smaller tractors having only 20” tall rear tires have built Model 507 successfully, but these machines have limited traction. Frame strength is not typically a concern either as Model 507 is designed to stiffen the frame of your tractor rather than depending on the tractor for rigidity.

Model 907 was originally designed for the small mini-diesel imports such as the Kubota, Yanmar, Mitsubishi, John Deere, etc. that have 12 to 17 hp engines. Model 907 was also designed for the Super Garden Tractors such as the John Deere 400 series and other large garden tractors. Typically these tractors have 26” diameter or larger rear tires. A number of customers wanted the 2-arm type loader on their garden tractor that have the 23” tall rear tires and they have been building them. To make this loader successful on the regular size garden tractor, you simply build a narrower bucket to reduce the weight on the front end. Some have even built an extra full 48” wide bucket from thinner materials (1/8”) for use with bulky materials such as mulch and snow

HOW DETAILED ARE THE PLANS?   
Ten years ago we learned that if the information to complete the machine was not in the plans, we would have to answer questions on the phone. We developed a system of keeping any questions in a book and following up by adding this information to the plans and instructions. Sure we still get questions, but now we can usually direct you to a section of the instructions or plans for the answer. This system has resulted in plans that give the customer everything needed to finish a project.

CAN A PART I HAVE ON HAND BE SUBSTITUTED?
Usually this answer is yes, if it can be worked on. A thicker square tube for the boom; a larger engine; different size tires. We also usually know what can’t be worked in and can sometimes give you alternatives to help use what you have.

ARE KITS NECESSARY TO COMPLETE THE MACHINES?
CADplans Corp. only sells the plans. We have arranged with suppliers to supply the kits you need so your construction time is reduced. But the kits are not necessary. The plans are fully detailed so the projects can be completed from locally available materials.