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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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 |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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