Now I will address all the issues you raised: 1. Regarding the switch placement on the control panel as you suggested, I have privately sent you the design drawings. 2. The issue of the track coming off is an unavoidable problem with tracked loaders. The best method is to learn the technique as shown in your video. 3. For the issue of the tracked loader struggling to turn in grass, our DRT450 has upgraded to Danfoss brand motors, so this situation will not occur anymore. 4. Regarding the safety lock issue, we have designed a slot around the bolt. This means that when you remove the safety lock from the crossbar, you only need to loosen the bolt slightly, and the safety lock will easily slide off through the slot. I have also sent you the mockup images. 5. For the attachment points used for securing the loader to a trailer, we have designed holes at the lowest part of the rear of the loader, which you have already demonstrated in your video. I truly appreciate your valuable suggestions and feedback. Only through such input can Derette continuously improve its existing models and develop new products. Thank you for your video; great job!
Dean. While the rear tie downs are an improvement, I think they should be up higher like right in front of the counterweights right below the cooler. That way when it's being strapped its pulling down and not just back. Just my thoughts.
file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/2e/14/690EE94B-00E7-4EF5-A69C-2A7C0DF4BE6C/IMG_3475.HEIC. 2 weeks after spine surgery!! Turning my order in today
You know what I hate about my dirt bike? I can't keep it clean. You know what I hate about my lawn mower? Grass clippings. You know afar I hate about my boat? I can't keep it dry.
HI, I picked up my Derette V1000 mini skid steer today. Won't uncrate it until the week after Christmas. Bad weather! Merry Christmas and thanks for your reviews. I'll write and let you know how it goes. Thanks again. Shalom/gw
Drill a 1 inch hole in the sides of the bucket towards the top. Instant front tie down points. That battery switch probably only has 2 wires. Extend the wires and move it to any of those spots that would be better for you. Do it while you have the drill out.
Hope it’s helpful. Took me while to figure it out. Dean from Derette helped me by sending me some assembly videos as well. I have it down now though!! lol
Hi, headed for Paul Bunyan this morning. Suggestions: Put some ethafoam padding over that key. Buy some magnets with pole pieces on the side of each magnet. Bolt a strip of thin plywood over that bar. That breaks the magnetic circuit. Attach two powerful magnets to the plywood. You can use epoxy or cable ties, anything you like. The magnets will hold the prop bar in place easily. If you think that tears up the lawn try doing what what I call bad turns on a full size skid loader. My solution is don't make any bad turns. Weld some d-rings anywhere you want on that tractor to hold it in place. BTW. My V1000 is headed for the dock. I guess I'll have it in about a month. I bought mine with the Perkins diesel. I'll let you know how I like it. Take care and thanks for the videos. Shalom/gw 😊 PS You're right. Dean is a great guy to work with. 😊
Thanks. Good suggestions. Dean from Derette actually saw the video and messaged me some plans for fixing both issues in the future. Pretty awesome honestly. I plan to get a V1000 as well. I want to compare the two. Let me know when you get it and how you like it. I hear the Perkins is a bit better than the Kubota but either one is awesome.
On all skid steers tired or tracked you make a slow gradual turn if you want grass to be OK. I tore a wheel off the bolts on my Bobcat. I had 50 lbs. per wheel and 4x42 lbs. weights on rear. Total 368 lbs. on a 371 Bobcat with 40" bucket. I'm now down to 1 50 lb. weight in rear wheels. I can still carry 90% of what I was doing.
For the safety prop, either slot the attachment holes or maybe attach some neobdynium magnets to the brace. They should be strong enough to keep it from coming off when you don't want it to but should be able to pull it off wiithout too much trouble.
Maybe you could fit the safety bar next to the key, this would build it out almost in perfectly inline. A little bit of thought required of course so you don't have those big screws sticking out. By the way, I will be doing this to mine as I have just purchased the same machine with heaps of attachments because of your videos. You made it easy for me to take the leap. Cheers mate from down under.
Awesome. I think you’ll love it. I have been thinking about adding a pin with some sort of cotter pin to pull and make it easy to remove. Not sure exactly yet, but something easier to prop it up.
I love this machine I think I might order one, but this video should be 5 things normal about mini skids. Except for maybe the battery disconnect. But that can be easily moved. And you could probably add a pad just above the engine cover.
In the comments sections on the reviews, I am constantly hearing that the tracks keep falling off these Chinese skid steers. People keep saying to buy the Chinese one with tires instead. I am personally waiting for China to make one with a seat for the operator. I'm sure they will, because within 1 year China went from the excavator with no cab or thumb for the bucket for $7000 to an excavator with a cab with fan, lights, and a thumb for the bucket for only $3,990 in our area. It sucks that the digging depth is not what they say though. It says 5'6", but we can only get 5' from the one we bought after the ground upheaves when digging.
I have heard a lot about tracks coming off the cheap auction mini skids due to misalignment. This one, I haven’t had issues now that I tensioned the tracks properly and know how to operate it better. lol. My issues were user error.
prop rod: drill through the mounting bar and find some right sized pins with cotter pin holes. also, take the prop rod off with the bucket down first. easier to get it off with the other bar out of the way. plus you're not potentially climbing under the raised bucket to remove it.
Ok, so something else I hate. There is no drain inside the machine. So if you wash inside, or get water inside, it has no where to go besides slowly leak out when it’s on a hill or shakes out. That was dirty and nasty water leaking out. It’s full of dirt and mud from not being able to wash it out. Sigh….. I did get a leak, but it wasn’t from that. Now that I look at the video again, yeah, I think that was from the motor seal that went bad on the right side. That video is coming soon.
I got a cheap AGT LRT23 from auction. Mine has never powered out spinning circles the drives seem to have lots of torque, and have yet to loose a track. I only got 10 hours on it so far but for what I paid I think it’s a great value
Key to not tearing up the ground is to never have a track not moving. If you are turning left, pull the left track so it turns backwards just a bit as the right track moves forwards. This is how I always got my ZTR mowers to never tear up lawns when I mowed yards for a living. You never want a static track/wheel. And of course, smooth transitions when changing a tracks direction. Also just trailer pins for the prop rod seems to be the quick way. in fact it should be a deeper C channel so you could put the pins in the holes while it's on the ram so it can't come off at all.
An offset open end wrench would save a bit of time moving the sprocket but I've never seen a wrench like that. Maybe cut your box end wrench to make it open end. Might also be a good idea to lower the bucket to put a little pressure on the prop so it can't pop out unexpectedly.
Before you bought your T450, had you considered buying the V1000? Why did you pick the model that you did? Did you consider the wheeled version of the same model? I'm currently waiting to see what your experiences are like, before I take the plunge. Initially, my plan was to buy the T450, in red. But now I am thinking about the V1000. I live on a piece of land as well, I don't want to tear up the parts of my property that have natural grass. Fortunately, my property is flat, I don't have to be concerned about gradients. But during the winter months, I do have some standing water in ares on my property. I am torn as to whether I should go Tracked or Wheeled.
A wheeled skid stear tears up the ground too when you turn with it. If you get a wheel loader it will be better but those machines are usuraly bigger and will tear up the ground becouse of their weight.
I went with the 450 because it’s cheaper and lighter. I couldn’t swing the extra $3k when I ordered. I am also pulling with an old 1/2 ton Escalade. The v1000 weighs another 1000lbs. Trailer 2300lbs, skid 2500lbs, mini excavator, 2200lbs. That’s 7,000lbs of its no attachments or tools on the trailer. I don’t want to kill my 260k mile truck. So I just bought a 2002 E450 7.3l power stroke and am getting a heavier duty trailer so I can get a new V1000. I plan to have one to compare to this in a few months. The tracks should work better for wet ground.
I didn’t know that. I have a riding mower. lol Dean saw the video and already sent me a new design idea for new units. Crazy how fast they can change production.
Looking at it, I think he can just open up the holes in the safety bar to the side. Then he only needs to loosen the bolts a bit to slide the safety bar out and back in again.
No. I prefer the tracks. Traction, lighter footprint, better on wet soils, and man it looks cool! Haha. I did debate buying the Derette DRT480i which has tracks and wheels. You can swap back and forth. It’s also AWD with 4 drive motors. Then I realized, I would probably never swap them and also don’t want to take up more storage space with extra wheels. I still think it’s an awesome option to have both.
Just get a small Kubota tractor with loader and backhoe. It’ll last a lifetime and the tires won’t destroy your yard. These Chinese skid steers break CONSTANTLY! You’ll thank me later. Kubota offers zero percent financing for 5 years.
@OurLifeInTrees well with a screw in place and a small bungee it would decrease the time for removal and the other can be saved as backup. I'm sure doing any welding and mods would alter the warranty so that's why I came up with that
Thanks for posting the videos, they've been very helpful. Our 430 was just unloaded in the US, wondering if you could tell me how long it took for yours to be ready for pick up after it was unloaded off the ship?
@@OurLifeInTrees I was just notified today, by the transportation company that the delivery will be made tomorrow & that I should have a forklift ready. I do not own a forklift!!! Looks like Dean is getting his skid steer back. :o(
@@OurLifeInTrees I wish Dean had made me aware that a forklift would be required for delivery to our address, he did not. The transport Co TXT me 11/24 stating they were working to "rent me" a forklift, so hopefully I'll get some news here in a bit. I'll keep you posted given you have assumed point on this with Derrett & keeping folks informed. Can't say my review is going to be that great, I went from "friend" to "sir" after this snafu... not happy about this.
@@TimJoiner-e7sDang, sorry to hear about that. Sounds like a pretty big oversight. It took me weeks to find a place that would unload it for me with a forklift. I could have rented one, but don’t know how to use it. Then I finally found a forklift sales place that agreed to unload it for me for a fee. So I had Dean ship it there. I hope they get it all sorted out for you quickly.
I want to compare it to the 450. The V1000 is a professional grade machine and the 450 is more for homeowners. I want to see which one is really a better option for the average homeowner.
@robertbloomquistsr6351 Not True! They did an update (balance) to it so now it can be operated on the 450. Derette has a video on thier TH-cam channel.
The machine was in one crate and was about $8500 shipped to me. The attachments were in another crate and were another $8k for all the attachments I bought.
Already subed and bell 👍 this is exacly the videos i want to see ( who manufacturers them )(how well with what parts )( how well do they stack up against name brand ) and cost savings best way to buy plus any hidden expenses or trouble getting them to your door so to speak . Best use of attachments are they quick attatch ,hyd flow rates ,what is best accessory to spring for on machines if available Thanks Again , and well done , I now have a new want to own thing to try to justify to my wife 😎
Nice to see the tie down points improvement! I do hope they move the battery switch install location for their next improvement. The red bar holder isn't as big of a deal to me but would be nice to see improvement when I order mine.
Many of the stuffs/issues you reported can be easily corrected on the next model. I am sure they have customer feedback where the company product management takes in customers feedback and recommendations.
I told Dean they should put a "D" ring on the front like the V1000. Your videos are great. Mine should be shipping out this week. You sold a lot of machines for them! 👍
Mine was ordered Aug. 26th. Talked to them last week. They are on a traditional holiday Oct 1-7 so that put a delay on things. A few weeks ago they also had another few days holiday on top of them being super busy. He said mine should be getting crated this week. I ordered 8 attachments which I was waiting on a couple to get completed also.
Thanks, I talked to him a couple weeks ago and he said the loader was pretty much ready, just waiting on attachments…I only ordered 3 of those. Hopefully mine will be crated this week as well!
@Antiphon43 yeah he said my machine was pretty much done a couple weeks ago and they were test running it. It's just a couple of my attachments were delaying it and this long holiday they had on top of that. Can't wait to get it. Hope yours is heading your way soon. 👍
Saying crab grass is a "lawn"... love it, Man!! LOL!! Great video - been looking into one of these - jury still out on the decision. Just joking about your lawn though...hehehe!
Haha you caught that? My girlfriend laughed at me when I showed her the video and said, “my perfectly manicured lawn.” We hate the “lawn” here. It’s mostly weeds and lots of sand burrs.
Thanks for the new video! Now I’ll be ready when the tracks come off. It’s been almost 2 months since I ordered and mine hasn’t shipped yet? I think you made Dean and Derette too busy😉
The tracks come off mainly while trying to turn on ground that has the bottom rear of the track planted so that when you move it forces over the pulley. It’s not hard to avoid making that movement. Sharper turns and surfaced like grass or with rocks and such. It rarely comes off, but does come off. Just carry those tools and you should be good. I guess that’s a good thing they are busy. I’m glad I can help, the wait times aren’t fun though. I see Deans videos he posts on Facebook with all his shipping updates, I can see they are busy. Thanks for watching and replying. I appreciate it.
I can't tell if this video is parody or not. Problems one and three are operator error. No one is making you make the most aggressive turns possible like that, you're choosing to do that, and that leads to your other problem of throwing tracks. You should always be rotating both tracks slightly to avoid biting. The only real issues you demonstrated that the manufacturer can fix would be electric cut-off key placement and adding a few holes for strap tie downs. And you can use the hook on the strap itself and tie it down anywhere there is an opening.
It is a work machine not a lawn ornament, regarding getting dirty, Ya you can power wash it after each job if you want it totally clean. Tracked machine while they will travel over concrete are meant to be used on soft surfaces, sand, soil etc. Wheels are for concrete, and gravel. One style of running gear is not for all surfaces. Your other points were interesting. Just saying.
I agree. I was being nit picky. Honestly, I had trouble finding five things I didn’t like about it. I just need it clean for thumbnail photos for TH-cam. Haha.
Biggest problem on these machines is the track coming off, maybe they need to make a track slightly wider so the tracks not so much like a rubber band. I would gladly pay an extra hundred or two dollars for a wider track on these if it kept it on the machine better.
hello Im dean,The reasons for a track coming off a skid steer loader with mechanical tensioning can include: 1. **Misalignment**: The wheels or idlers might not be aligned properly, causing the track to slip off. 2. **Wear and Tear**: Over time, the track can wear down, leading to a poor fit which can result in the track coming off. 3. **Debris**: Foreign objects caught between the track and the wheel can disrupt the alignment and cause the track to detach. 4. **Tension Issues**: If the tension is not set correctly, the track can become too loose or too tight, leading to slippage. 5. **Damaged Components**: Broken or worn-out rollers, idlers, or guide wheels can cause the track to come off. 6. **Overloading**: Exceeding the machine's weight capacity can put excessive strain on the track system. 7. **Abrupt Movements**: Sudden stops, sharp turns, or jerky movements can cause the track to lose its position.
@@OurLifeInTrees Could you drill out the bar holes on the bottom and use simple $3 Trailer Coupler Safety Pins? Can't tell if they would get in the way of operation.
@@wiresbringitI think I’m going to cut out an opening so it will slide on and off. Then I can tighten them down and little and unscrew a little to remove.
@@OurLifeInTreesI do like simple and cheap! Technically reducing it's load rating but likely not enough to be concerned. Thanks for taking on this project series!
Yes, there is a better way for the prop rod, but it’s probably the reason why you didn’t pay very much for that machine. If you want a better mouse trap buy Kabota , bobcat, Caterpillar
Tighten the tracks , so they dont pop off. Dontturn on the dime , so you dont rip up the yard. Remove the locking tab from the key , so you can remove it , in the on position... But , Be ready to lose the key
This is why you don't buy directly from China. You can't really inspect your machine and you don't get a real sense of ergonomics from a video. I bought my mini excavator from an auction, I got to inspect the the machine and get on it and test it out before I bid on it. I knew exactly what I was buying before I bought it. Plus, I saved money and hassle by having the auction do all the importing or maybe they bought theirs from the place who imported them , I don't know. Bottom line is, I didn't have to go through a broker, or deal with Wang Hang Lo in Hong Kong.
I’m really happy with it and it’s a great machine. Nothing is perfect. I have nit picky complaints about all my cars, trucks and motorcycles. What cool about these is that the manufacturer listens and makes changes and improvements as they go.
Yeah, doing burnouts in my driveway is not pretty but that doesn’t mean that I don’t want a car that wouldn’t do burnouts. Learn how to drive is what I would suggest, sir.
Why complain about simple stuff you are capable of modifying and fixing - especially after savings thousands of dollars against name brand skid steers.
It’s a creative way to create another useful video review of the machine. Fixing the things I have is part two. I could find a bunch of stuff I don’t like on a name brand unit as well.
Firstly, it's a YT channel and he needs content. This takes time and effort and he's likely trying to generate revenue from clicks. We win and get information on the equipment, he wins and makes some money for his time and effort. Win/win.
@@modsquad8uthat is exactly it. Trying to come up with the most interesting content that is helpful and useful to people is hard sometimes. I thought this was a good way to go over some of the details of the machine now that I have had a few months of use on it. Thanks for your support. I appreciate it.
You sound like you don’t know what you’re doing you don’t put side-by-side. You put them in front and back. Buy a bigger trailer if you’re worried about weight over the axles . You can also strap your bucket down to the trailer. If you add some hooks, you can easily drop a chain instead of using straps. I agree something should be on the back , but that’s an easy fix for the price that you paid for that.
I don’t know what I’m doing. My trailer isn’t big enough for front to back. I’m selling my trailers and about to buy a bigger one. I have hooks for the back I need to install. But that’s for video part 2.
Aww... poor baby... My zero-turn lawn mower does the same thing, and it's NOT tracked! Now, I'll grant a cheap Chinese product isn't going to be the greatest beast in the world, but you're exaggerating the issues.
Yeah, I feel like a poor baby. I think you get the point of the video. I don’t have much to complain about. I couldn’t even find 5 things and had to make up some silliness. It is annoying not having good tie down points though.
@@OurLifeInTrees : Please note that this is just my opinion, but by trying so hard to present negatives, you really hurt the points you did make, such as the easy serviceability (your remounting the track showed how simple it really was.) Yes, the tie-down points were a legitimate argument, as were the others, to a point... but my zero-turn mower spins a while any time I make a sharp turn... effectively just like a skid-steer, though admittedly usually with only one wheel. You could probably reduce some of the traction problems by using a wider track, if available. Move up to 9" wide treads and your ground pressure would drop significantly.
lol, while this guy is complaining about his skid steer machine his "stupid" camera turns off. Priceless, must be another tool he regrets buying. This guy probably complains when his shoe laces come undone.
Haha. Well, I guess you didn’t watch the whole thing and therefore you will never know what I really think and if I regret buying this tool. Thanks for your comment, I do appreciate it, and have a great day!!! PS. I already upgraded the camera since I shot this video.
Hahah. That may be accurate but I must tell you, it’s hard to find five things I hate with a machine I love. I am keeping up with my theme or creating a five things I hate video on each of my machines.
On grass plan your turns to be wide sweeping turns rather than short sharp turns. You will get much less to no damage. Also tracks or wheels you are going to tear up grass with sharp turns probably worse with wheels in my experience. Even after all their years of experience CAT engineers still have not worked out all the bugs as far as cab design for stuff the operator needs to bring along for a full days operation of a skid steer.
Now I will address all the issues you raised:
1. Regarding the switch placement on the control panel as you suggested, I have privately sent you the design drawings.
2. The issue of the track coming off is an unavoidable problem with tracked loaders. The best method is to learn the technique as shown in your video.
3. For the issue of the tracked loader struggling to turn in grass, our DRT450 has upgraded to Danfoss brand motors, so this situation will not occur anymore.
4. Regarding the safety lock issue, we have designed a slot around the bolt. This means that when you remove the safety lock from the crossbar, you only need to loosen the bolt slightly, and the safety lock will easily slide off through the slot. I have also sent you the mockup images.
5. For the attachment points used for securing the loader to a trailer, we have designed holes at the lowest part of the rear of the loader, which you have already demonstrated in your video.
I truly appreciate your valuable suggestions and feedback. Only through such input can Derette continuously improve its existing models and develop new products. Thank you for your video; great job!
Пункт 2. Разве это нормально? На kubota, Vermeer сомневаюсь, что такая проблема.
@@voronezhpokos Причина схода гусениц во многом зависит от условий эксплуатации и работы оператора.
Dean. While the rear tie downs are an improvement, I think they should be up higher like right in front of the counterweights right below the cooler. That way when it's being strapped its pulling down and not just back. Just my thoughts.
@@Dean-deretteсогласен, но у автора не увидел критическую эксплуатацию, значит возможно конструкция с ошибками
@@fullthrottle2656 paul will contact you
Thanks!
Thank you sir!
file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/2e/14/690EE94B-00E7-4EF5-A69C-2A7C0DF4BE6C/IMG_3475.HEIC. 2 weeks after spine surgery!! Turning my order in today
I ordered a V1000 last week with almost every attachment. Dean was great.
many thanks
Crazy how good he is at answering every little question. Quick too! I hope to have one here in the next few months as well.
@@OurLifeInTrees Please wait patiently, haha.
@@Dean-derette. I don’t like being patient. Sigh…. lol
@@Dean-derettedean do u offer any all electric equipment?
You know what I hate about my dirt bike? I can't keep it clean. You know what I hate about my lawn mower? Grass clippings. You know afar I hate about my boat? I can't keep it dry.
Hahaha you get it!!! Not much I hate about this machine I had to find some nit picky things.
HI, I picked up my Derette V1000 mini skid steer today. Won't uncrate it until the week after Christmas. Bad weather! Merry Christmas and thanks for your reviews. I'll write and let you know how it goes. Thanks again. Shalom/gw
Haha! Finally! You’ve been waiting for quite some time. That’s really cool. Can’t wait to hear what you think about it!
Drill a 1 inch hole in the sides of the bucket towards the top. Instant front tie down points.
That battery switch probably only has 2 wires. Extend the wires and move it to any of those spots that would be better for you. Do it while you have the drill out.
That’s a good plan. I like it. Thanks.
Thanks!
Thank you!
Welcome!
Great Attention to Detail on the Track Tensioning and Servicing the unit! Thank you!
Hope it’s helpful. Took me while to figure it out. Dean from Derette helped me by sending me some assembly videos as well. I have it down now though!! lol
Man I appreciate you putting ALL this effort into making this super thorough content for us. Thanks a ton. Subbed!
I’m glad it’s useful! Thanks for the kind words, I appreciate it.
Weld more tabs where you want them and make a bracket for the prop bar the counter weight area is a good spot to weld to
That’s the plan. Thank you.
Hi, headed for Paul Bunyan this morning. Suggestions: Put some ethafoam padding over that key. Buy some magnets with pole pieces on the side of each magnet. Bolt a strip of thin plywood over that bar. That breaks the magnetic circuit. Attach two powerful magnets to the plywood. You can use epoxy or cable ties, anything you like. The magnets will hold the prop bar in place easily. If you think that tears up the lawn try doing what what I call bad turns on a full size skid loader. My solution is don't make any bad turns. Weld some d-rings anywhere you want on that tractor to hold it in place. BTW. My V1000 is headed for the dock. I guess I'll have it in about a month. I bought mine with the Perkins diesel. I'll let you know how I like it. Take care and thanks for the videos. Shalom/gw 😊 PS You're right. Dean is a great guy to work with. 😊
Thanks. Good suggestions. Dean from Derette actually saw the video and messaged me some plans for fixing both issues in the future. Pretty awesome honestly.
I plan to get a V1000 as well. I want to compare the two. Let me know when you get it and how you like it. I hear the Perkins is a bit better than the Kubota but either one is awesome.
Hi i am from puerto rico ,,about that red thing to holded you can use magnets and forgot the screwes
That’s a good idea.
May be some one has suggested it already.
To make it easier to remove the safety bar, turn the holes into slots
Yup. That’s the plan. Good call.
On all skid steers tired or tracked you make a slow gradual turn if you want grass to be OK. I tore a wheel off the bolts on my Bobcat. I had 50 lbs. per wheel and 4x42 lbs. weights on rear. Total 368 lbs. on a 371 Bobcat with 40" bucket. I'm now down to 1 50 lb. weight in rear wheels. I can still carry 90% of what I was doing.
I thought the tires were better for tearing up grass. Good info. Thanks.
For the safety prop, either slot the attachment holes or maybe attach some neobdynium magnets to the brace. They should be strong enough to keep it from coming off when you don't want it to but should be able to pull it off wiithout too much trouble.
That’s not a bad idea. Thanks.
Maybe you could fit the safety bar next to the key, this would build it out almost in perfectly inline. A little bit of thought required of course so you don't have those big screws sticking out. By the way, I will be doing this to mine as I have just purchased the same machine with heaps of attachments because of your videos. You made it easy for me to take the leap. Cheers mate from down under.
Awesome. I think you’ll love it.
I have been thinking about adding a pin with some sort of cotter pin to pull and make it easy to remove. Not sure exactly yet, but something easier to prop it up.
Put a couple sticky back magnets on the inside U portion of the red prop and it will eliminate the knobs
That’s great idea
why not use a. pin for the hood bar?
That’s a good idea. I may do that.
I love this machine I think I might order one, but this video should be 5 things normal about mini skids. Except for maybe the battery disconnect. But that can be easily moved. And you could probably add a pad just above the engine cover.
Yeah, I had to really try and find 5 things. lol
you can screw down the drop lock pin and then its a simple process to lock and unlock your stay bar for the ram, no more thumb screws
Thanks for the input
In the comments sections on the reviews, I am constantly hearing that the tracks keep falling off these Chinese skid steers. People keep saying to buy the Chinese one with tires instead. I am personally waiting for China to make one with a seat for the operator. I'm sure they will, because within 1 year China went from the excavator with no cab or thumb for the bucket for $7000 to an excavator with a cab with fan, lights, and a thumb for the bucket for only $3,990 in our area. It sucks that the digging depth is not what they say though. It says 5'6", but we can only get 5' from the one we bought after the ground upheaves when digging.
I have heard a lot about tracks coming off the cheap auction mini skids due to misalignment. This one, I haven’t had issues now that I tensioned the tracks properly and know how to operate it better. lol. My issues were user error.
Nice info on trac replacement. Worth the 10$ I sent my new buddy 😂
I’m glad it’s helpful!
prop rod: drill through the mounting bar and find some right sized pins with cotter pin holes. also, take the prop rod off with the bucket down first. easier to get it off with the other bar out of the way. plus you're not potentially climbing under the raised bucket to remove it.
Good ideas. Dean from Derette already saw the video and sent me a new design for the bar. It slides in and out. Smart.
How much with the same attachments And machine total? I have a small farm that would work great for me. Thanks
I paid about $8500 shipped to me in Oklahoma for the machine and another $8k for all 9 attachments shipped to me.
were you able to find the hydraulic leak and fix it? saw your driveway got splattered after the track repair
Ok, so something else I hate. There is no drain inside the machine. So if you wash inside, or get water inside, it has no where to go besides slowly leak out when it’s on a hill or shakes out. That was dirty and nasty water leaking out. It’s full of dirt and mud from not being able to wash it out. Sigh…..
I did get a leak, but it wasn’t from that. Now that I look at the video again, yeah, I think that was from the motor seal that went bad on the right side. That video is coming soon.
I'd prefer it as a wheeled loader, but yeh I could see this thing replacing a scut tractor for most purposes.
I got a cheap AGT LRT23 from auction. Mine has never powered out spinning circles the drives seem to have lots of torque, and have yet to loose a track. I only got 10 hours on it so far but for what I paid I think it’s a great value
That’s awesome. I hear a lot of people got nice ones, not everyone, but quite a few.
Thanks for the input.
I would love to speak to about the buying process. Can that be arranged?
You can email me or get on the Facebook group in the description where there is a whole community of people who have bought or plan to buy one.
Key to not tearing up the ground is to never have a track not moving. If you are turning left, pull the left track so it turns backwards just a bit as the right track moves forwards. This is how I always got my ZTR mowers to never tear up lawns when I mowed yards for a living. You never want a static track/wheel. And of course, smooth transitions when changing a tracks direction.
Also just trailer pins for the prop rod seems to be the quick way. in fact it should be a deeper C channel so you could put the pins in the holes while it's on the ram so it can't come off at all.
Thanks for the tips. I’ll take any advice from more knowledge people I can. I’m a newbie and it’s just me with a camera out here. lol
Does it have a float option for the bucket which would be helpful for grading. Perhaps @dean-derette can help?
It does not have the float option.
One question would you buy this machine again?
Heck yeah! It’s awesome.
An offset open end wrench would save a bit of time moving the sprocket but I've never seen a wrench like that. Maybe cut your box end wrench to make it open end. Might also be a good idea to lower the bucket to put a little pressure on the prop so it can't pop out unexpectedly.
Good suggestions. I’ll look into the wrench.
Smart pinching the prop with the bucket.
That's why there is this invention called a torch. Heat it up and bend your own custom 😆🔧 🔧🔧😆
@@fullthrottle2656truth
Before you bought your T450, had you considered buying the V1000? Why did you pick the model that you did? Did you consider the wheeled version of the same model? I'm currently waiting to see what your experiences are like, before I take the plunge. Initially, my plan was to buy the T450, in red. But now I am thinking about the V1000. I live on a piece of land as well, I don't want to tear up the parts of my property that have natural grass. Fortunately, my property is flat, I don't have to be concerned about gradients. But during the winter months, I do have some standing water in ares on my property. I am torn as to whether I should go Tracked or Wheeled.
A wheeled skid stear tears up the ground too when you turn with it. If you get a wheel loader it will be better but those machines are usuraly bigger and will tear up the ground becouse of their weight.
I went with the 450 because it’s cheaper and lighter. I couldn’t swing the extra $3k when I ordered. I am also pulling with an old 1/2 ton Escalade. The v1000 weighs another 1000lbs.
Trailer 2300lbs, skid 2500lbs, mini excavator, 2200lbs. That’s 7,000lbs of its no attachments or tools on the trailer. I don’t want to kill my 260k mile truck. So I just bought a 2002 E450 7.3l power stroke and am getting a heavier duty trailer so I can get a new V1000. I plan to have one to compare to this in a few months.
The tracks should work better for wet ground.
Rivet 2 straps of double sided velcro in the existing holes. Make them long enough to wrap around and secure it to the cross bar.
Not bad idea
How much did it cost for just the loader
$8500 shipped to me in Oklahoma.
Zero turn mowers require 3 point turns to not tear up the yards, that might apply here. Safety bar I would use heavy duty magnets.
I didn’t know that. I have a riding mower. lol
Dean saw the video and already sent me a new design idea for new units. Crazy how fast they can change production.
Looking at it, I think he can just open up the holes in the safety bar to the side. Then he only needs to loosen the bolts a bit to slide the safety bar out and back in again.
@@snygg1993. Thanks. That’s exactly what I plan to do
Do you regret buying the Tracked model over the wheeled model?
No. I prefer the tracks. Traction, lighter footprint, better on wet soils, and man it looks cool! Haha. I did debate buying the Derette DRT480i which has tracks and wheels. You can swap back and forth. It’s also AWD with 4 drive motors. Then I realized, I would probably never swap them and also don’t want to take up more storage space with extra wheels. I still think it’s an awesome option to have both.
Love your videos, sir! I’m considering getting one of these mini skids… any idea if it will pick up a full basket / tote of firewood?
Just get a small Kubota tractor with loader and backhoe. It’ll last a lifetime and the tires won’t destroy your yard. These Chinese skid steers break CONSTANTLY! You’ll thank me later. Kubota offers zero percent financing for 5 years.
Thanks for the feedback. I am. It sure. I plan to do a lifting video coming up soon and hopefully that will answer our lofting questions when I do.
Mine doesn’t break constantly and it’s not a cheap auction unit either. I looked at Kubota, but saved THOUSANDS with this and more attachments.
How does the trencher and post hole digger work in rocky soil???
I need to test that. I haven’t tried rocky soil yet
I am sure you have said but how much weight will it lift
Its maximum lift force is 990 lbs.
What Dean said. lol
@@OurLifeInTrees
As far as the safety bar- small bungy to wrap around and maybe 1 screw to hold in place
That might work. I was thinking a pin with a cotter pin. Just don’t want it to rattle.
@OurLifeInTrees well with a screw in place and a small bungee it would decrease the time for removal and the other can be saved as backup. I'm sure doing any welding and mods would alter the warranty so that's why I came up with that
Thanks for posting the videos, they've been very helpful. Our 430 was just unloaded in the US, wondering if you could tell me how long it took for yours to be ready for pick up after it was unloaded off the ship?
Thank you. I’m glad they help.
Once mine hit the port in LA, it took another 2-3 weeks for the freight company to get it to me in Oklahoma.
@@OurLifeInTrees I was just notified today, by the transportation company that the delivery will be made tomorrow & that I should have a forklift ready. I do not own a forklift!!! Looks like Dean is getting his skid steer back. :o(
@@TimJoiner-e7soh no! Did you get it figured out? I had mine shipped to a forklift sales and service place that loaded it on my trailer for me.
@@OurLifeInTrees I wish Dean had made me aware that a forklift would be required for delivery to our address, he did not. The transport Co TXT me 11/24 stating they were working to "rent me" a forklift, so hopefully I'll get some news here in a bit. I'll keep you posted given you have assumed point on this with Derrett & keeping folks informed. Can't say my review is going to be that great, I went from "friend" to "sir" after this snafu... not happy about this.
@@TimJoiner-e7sDang, sorry to hear about that. Sounds like a pretty big oversight. It took me weeks to find a place that would unload it for me with a forklift. I could have rented one, but don’t know how to use it. Then I finally found a forklift sales place that agreed to unload it for me for a fee. So I had Dean ship it there. I hope they get it all sorted out for you quickly.
how long did it take for you to receive the skid loader? from when you ordered?
I paid my deposit 4/25 and received the skid steer 7/12.
Why the v1000? Do you think its a better machine?
I want to compare it to the 450. The V1000 is a professional grade machine and the 450 is more for homeowners. I want to see which one is really a better option for the average homeowner.
@@OurLifeInTrees Also, you can only get the forest mulcher on the V1000.
@robertbloomquistsr6351 Not True! They did an update (balance) to it so now it can be operated on the 450. Derette has a video on thier TH-cam channel.
@@robertbloomquistsr6351Yeah they just changed it. I wish I could have gotten the mulched when I bought mine. Sigh…
Hi we have what we call here in Australia drop lock pins
I google them and that’s a great idea.
how much did it cost for the machine and attachments?
The machine was in one crate and was about $8500 shipped to me. The attachments were in another crate and were another $8k for all the attachments I bought.
@@OurLifeInTreesI saw them brand new on eBay for about $4,250.
You should always check both tracks when one track is loose or come off. This is the biggest problem I see with this machine so far but can be fixed.
Good tip. Thanks
I am very interested in buying one of these machines i'd love to chat with you about this a little bit more. Thanks ALLEN
Sure. Ourlifeintrees@gmail.com
Already subed and bell 👍 this is exacly the videos i want to see ( who manufacturers them )(how well with what parts )( how well do they stack up against name brand ) and cost savings best way to buy plus any hidden expenses or trouble getting them to your door so to speak . Best use of attachments are they quick attatch ,hyd flow rates ,what is best accessory to spring for on machines if available Thanks Again , and well done , I now have a new want to own thing to try to justify to my wife 😎
Haha just show your wife how much fun they are and promise to let her drive it once…. lol
Thanks for the comments. I appreciate it
Nice to see the tie down points improvement! I do hope they move the battery switch install location for their next improvement. The red bar holder isn't as big of a deal to me but would be nice to see improvement when I order mine.
Agreed. Dean from Derette watched the video and already sent me plans for modification’s to correct my dislike of the battery switch and the bar.
Many of the stuffs/issues you reported can be easily corrected on the next model. I am sure they have customer feedback where the company product management takes in customers feedback and recommendations.
Agreed. They do. I told them about the tie downs and a few weeks later he showed me the video where they added them. Good company.
@OurLifeInTrees how long ago did he send you the drawings of the tie downs? Just wondering if my machine might have them.
@@fullthrottle2656A few weeks ago. Ask him and see. I’m not sure when he is putting that into production. @Dean-derette
I told Dean they should put a "D" ring on the front like the V1000. Your videos are great. Mine should be shipping out this week. You sold a lot of machines for them! 👍
Thank you. I appreciate it. Congrats on your new machine. I would imagine they are selling a lot of them.
Out of curiosity what was your original order date? Mine was August 10th…
Mine was ordered Aug. 26th. Talked to them last week. They are on a traditional holiday Oct 1-7 so that put a delay on things. A few weeks ago they also had another few days holiday on top of them being super busy. He said mine should be getting crated this week. I ordered 8 attachments which I was waiting on a couple to get completed also.
Thanks, I talked to him a couple weeks ago and he said the loader was pretty much ready, just waiting on attachments…I only ordered 3 of those.
Hopefully mine will be crated this week as well!
@Antiphon43 yeah he said my machine was pretty much done a couple weeks ago and they were test running it. It's just a couple of my attachments were delaying it and this long holiday they had on top of that. Can't wait to get it. Hope yours is heading your way soon. 👍
The v1000 looked great , i assume the smaller unit is the only wheeled unit to try and save on the grass a little
Yeah. The little one would be cool sometimes, but I really like my 450 and the v1000 looks amazing.
I am going to order the 450 model for myself on the east coast of Canada , we have a lot of rock here
It’s a nice machine. You’ll like it.
Maybe drill a hole in the low end of the counter weight for your tie down strap. Might work.
Good idea. Thanks.
each track machine is like that man, its not a ferrari
Agreed. I would like a Ferrari though. lol
Saying crab grass is a "lawn"... love it, Man!! LOL!! Great video - been looking into one of these - jury still out on the decision. Just joking about your lawn though...hehehe!
Haha you caught that? My girlfriend laughed at me when I showed her the video and said, “my perfectly manicured lawn.” We hate the “lawn” here. It’s mostly weeds and lots of sand burrs.
Thanks for the new video! Now I’ll be ready when the tracks come off. It’s been almost 2 months since I ordered and mine hasn’t shipped yet? I think you made Dean and Derette too busy😉
The tracks come off mainly while trying to turn on ground that has the bottom rear of the track planted so that when you move it forces over the pulley. It’s not hard to avoid making that movement. Sharper turns and surfaced like grass or with rocks and such. It rarely comes off, but does come off. Just carry those tools and you should be good.
I guess that’s a good thing they are busy. I’m glad I can help, the wait times aren’t fun though. I see Deans videos he posts on Facebook with all his shipping updates, I can see they are busy.
Thanks for watching and replying. I appreciate it.
This is an issue with many/all of them
@@followtheciaenceIf you don’t have your tracks tensioned, yes that will happen to any tracked machine
We were all yelling about that beautiful lawn Lol😂 the phone got hot shut off when you sabotaged the grass. 😊😂❤🎉cool video!!!
Hitch pins for the prop rod
Yeah. Good idea.
Good video, track adjust was great. As to your dislike, they were minor to me for what you get.
Thank you. Yes, they are all small things I don’t like. As long as the reliability is good, I’m happy!
duct tape an umbrella to your tripod. no more overheating phone. :D
Haha I ended up opening the hatch on my SUV and putting the tripod underneath. So more direct sun issues. Sigh….
I can't tell if this video is parody or not. Problems one and three are operator error. No one is making you make the most aggressive turns possible like that, you're choosing to do that, and that leads to your other problem of throwing tracks. You should always be rotating both tracks slightly to avoid biting.
The only real issues you demonstrated that the manufacturer can fix would be electric cut-off key placement and adding a few holes for strap tie downs. And you can use the hook on the strap itself and tie it down anywhere there is an opening.
It was just a fun little video. Hard to find five things I don’t like, so I had to dig deep. Lol.
had the ditch witch sk1050, tracks came off too. Dig the vids...
Dang. Figured the big dollar machines wouldn’t.
I’m glad you like them. Thanks for watching I appreciate it.
It is a work machine not a lawn ornament, regarding getting dirty, Ya you can power wash it after each job if you want it totally clean. Tracked machine while they will travel over concrete are meant to be used on soft surfaces, sand, soil etc. Wheels are for concrete, and gravel. One style of running gear is not for all surfaces. Your other points were interesting. Just saying.
I agree. I was being nit picky. Honestly, I had trouble finding five things I didn’t like about it.
I just need it clean for thumbnail photos for TH-cam. Haha.
did you go thru dean sun?
He's got a whole vid on how and where he ordered.
Yes. Dean was awesome to deal with. Name drop me and see if he will give you a deal. lol.
True. Thanks.
@@OurLifeInTrees I will haha
Biggest problem on these machines is the track coming off, maybe they need to make a track slightly wider so the tracks not so much like a rubber band. I would gladly pay an extra hundred or two dollars for a wider track on these if it kept it on the machine better.
That’s true. It may help. I do like how small it is though.
hello Im dean,The reasons for a track coming off a skid steer loader with mechanical tensioning can include:
1. **Misalignment**: The wheels or idlers might not be aligned properly, causing the track to slip off.
2. **Wear and Tear**: Over time, the track can wear down, leading to a poor fit which can result in the track coming off.
3. **Debris**: Foreign objects caught between the track and the wheel can disrupt the alignment and cause the track to detach.
4. **Tension Issues**: If the tension is not set correctly, the track can become too loose or too tight, leading to slippage.
5. **Damaged Components**: Broken or worn-out rollers, idlers, or guide wheels can cause the track to come off.
6. **Overloading**: Exceeding the machine's weight capacity can put excessive strain on the track system.
7. **Abrupt Movements**: Sudden stops, sharp turns, or jerky movements can cause the track to lose its position.
@@Dean-derettethat’s a great list. I agree. I did #7 to make it come off.
cool
Thanks
rear strap point weld a 2'' receiver to the bottom under the folding stand
Hnmm. Not a bad idea. I bought tractor bucket hooks to weld on the sides.
Put a magnet on your prop rod
That’s a good idea.
toggle clamp on the black bar that the red prop mounts on
I plan to. Easy fix.
@@OurLifeInTrees Could you drill out the bar holes on the bottom and use simple $3 Trailer Coupler Safety Pins? Can't tell if they would get in the way of operation.
@@wiresbringitI think I’m going to cut out an opening so it will slide on and off. Then I can tighten them down and little and unscrew a little to remove.
@@OurLifeInTreesI do like simple and cheap! Technically reducing it's load rating but likely not enough to be concerned. Thanks for taking on this project series!
@@wiresbringitI appreciate your feedback!
Great video! Great facebook page! There appears to be an tie down anchor point hole on the back right below where you are attached?
Thank you. I appreciate the feedback.
The hole on the right is the exhaust hole on the left.
I have maybe a salutation for your phone for the overheating buy mini a umbrella
That’s not a bad idea. I opened the lift gate on my suv and put the tripod under it after it shut off. Sigh….
On grass use a sheet of plywood 2400x1200 and turn on it
Agreed. I said that in the video. I’m not going to carry plywood around my yard though. Its ok, my yard is almost all weeds anyway. Haha
If you send your video to them, they might even send you a new, improved model for you to test next time.
That sounds like a great idea!!
I want to see it with a stump grinder
That’s coming soon.
@@OurLifeInTrees it would be cool I want to buy one
All tracked machines tear up grass.
Correct. That’s why I said that.
th-cam.com/users/clipUgkxzd4pNKIJs_Sqi-vZQz86TnSLn82SkvHD?si=5Eg8VBG9w6oB7xcH
Yes, there is a better way for the prop rod, but it’s probably the reason why you didn’t pay very much for that machine. If you want a better mouse trap buy Kabota , bobcat, Caterpillar
Haha. That’s right. Too bad I can’t afford any of them. Love my cheap little machine.
Good video
Thank you. I hope it helps.
Tighten the tracks , so they dont pop off.
Dontturn on the dime , so you dont rip up the yard.
Remove the locking tab from the key , so you can remove it , in the on position...
But , Be ready to lose the key
All true and accurate statements. Thanks for the comment!
Good job line the video
Thanks. I appreciate it.
This is why you don't buy directly from China. You can't really inspect your machine and you don't get a real sense of ergonomics from a video. I bought my mini excavator from an auction, I got to inspect the the machine and get on it and test it out before I bid on it. I knew exactly what I was buying before I bought it. Plus, I saved money and hassle by having the auction do all the importing or maybe they bought theirs from the place who imported them , I don't know. Bottom line is, I didn't have to go through a broker, or deal with Wang Hang Lo in Hong Kong.
I’m really happy with it and it’s a great machine. Nothing is perfect. I have nit picky complaints about all my cars, trucks and motorcycles. What cool about these is that the manufacturer listens and makes changes and improvements as they go.
Why don't YOU adjust the supposed faults.
But that’s another video! If I had already fixed them, then how would you know how they come and how could I make part two?
Yeah, doing burnouts in my driveway is not pretty but that doesn’t mean that I don’t want a car that wouldn’t do burnouts. Learn how to drive is what I would suggest, sir.
I’m 20 hours in now to my life as an “operator”. Never used one of these before, if you can’t tell. lol.
You’re not supposed to do 360’s with skid steers on loose or grassy soil. It’s common knowledge for equipment operators.
May be true. Not common knowledge for non-operators. Thanks for the feedback.
This guy is mad about dirt on his tool designed for moving dirt.
Hahaha. It’s good comedy in my opinion. lol
Why complain about simple stuff you are capable of modifying and fixing - especially after savings thousands of dollars against name brand skid steers.
R&D, the manufacturer is watching too.
It’s a creative way to create another useful video review of the machine. Fixing the things I have is part two.
I could find a bunch of stuff I don’t like on a name brand unit as well.
Because we all want to know what his actual experience is rather than just the good parts.
Firstly, it's a YT channel and he needs content. This takes time and effort and he's likely trying to generate revenue from clicks. We win and get information on the equipment, he wins and makes some money for his time and effort. Win/win.
@@modsquad8uthat is exactly it. Trying to come up with the most interesting content that is helpful and useful to people is hard sometimes. I thought this was a good way to go over some of the details of the machine now that I have had a few months of use on it.
Thanks for your support. I appreciate it.
Very petty grapes
Good grapes? lol
You sound like you don’t know what you’re doing you don’t put side-by-side. You put them in front and back. Buy a bigger trailer if you’re worried about weight over the axles . You can also strap your bucket down to the trailer. If you add some hooks, you can easily drop a chain instead of using straps. I agree something should be on the back , but that’s an easy fix for the price that you paid for that.
I don’t know what I’m doing. My trailer isn’t big enough for front to back. I’m selling my trailers and about to buy a bigger one.
I have hooks for the back I need to install. But that’s for video part 2.
Aww... poor baby... My zero-turn lawn mower does the same thing, and it's NOT tracked! Now, I'll grant a cheap Chinese product isn't going to be the greatest beast in the world, but you're exaggerating the issues.
Yeah, I feel like a poor baby. I think you get the point of the video. I don’t have much to complain about. I couldn’t even find 5 things and had to make up some silliness. It is annoying not having good tie down points though.
@@OurLifeInTrees : Please note that this is just my opinion, but by trying so hard to present negatives, you really hurt the points you did make, such as the easy serviceability (your remounting the track showed how simple it really was.) Yes, the tie-down points were a legitimate argument, as were the others, to a point... but my zero-turn mower spins a while any time I make a sharp turn... effectively just like a skid-steer, though admittedly usually with only one wheel. You could probably reduce some of the traction problems by using a wider track, if available. Move up to 9" wide treads and your ground pressure would drop significantly.
Learn how to turn. You’re tearing up your grass and your machine along with your tracks by turning it the way you are.
Kinda doing it for the video. But I agree. Thanks.
Buy a set of American made tracks for these machines that Chinese rubber is junk
They work better? Like for traction or lifespan?
lol, while this guy is complaining about his skid steer machine his "stupid" camera turns off. Priceless, must be another tool he regrets buying. This guy probably complains when his shoe laces come undone.
Haha. Well, I guess you didn’t watch the whole thing and therefore you will never know what I really think and if I regret buying this tool.
Thanks for your comment, I do appreciate it, and have a great day!!!
PS. I already upgraded the camera since I shot this video.
From what i see u just overthink everything too much i know ur co workers hate working with u
Hahah. That may be accurate but I must tell you, it’s hard to find five things I hate with a machine I love. I am keeping up with my theme or creating a five things I hate video on each of my machines.
👍😀
lol thanks
Great video as usual! GREEDINGS FROM V1000 AND DRT450 TECK, TALK AND SALES GROUP !!!
Haha. Thank you sir. I appreciate it.
Tracks come off on everything including mini excavators. You just have to be careful about turning especially on messy terrain.
I’ve learned that lesson… a few times. lol
On grass plan your turns to be wide sweeping turns rather than short sharp turns. You will get much less to no damage. Also tracks or wheels you are going to tear up grass with sharp turns probably worse with wheels in my experience.
Even after all their years of experience CAT engineers still have not worked out all the bugs as far as cab design for stuff the operator needs to bring along for a full days operation of a skid steer.
Thanks for the input. I have learned the wide sweeping turns are the way to go for sure.
There are always improvements to be made I’m sure.