small chipper advice

[2000ssm6]

I may have some large oaks cut down at the GFs, most of it will be cut into firewood but the yard isn't big enough for a brush pile(then burn)like I always do. I'm thinking that buying a chipper would save me a lot of work trying to haul the limbs out on a smaller trailer.

Looking on my local CL there are a few Vermerr 625 with the 25hp Kolher that look decent. They are asking $4000 but I haven't contacted them to look and haggle yet. There is one that looks like a DR with a 18hp Vanguard for $1500. I know the 625 would be a much better unit but can I get by with the smaller DR? Watching youtube videos the DR units with the higher horsepower engines seem to work ok.

The other option is to rent but as much tree work as we run into, buying one may pay for itself quick.

Thanks

 

[2manyhounds]

I've tried the DR's, they can keep them. The Vermeer 625 is ok for small stuff 6 inch throat, that doesn't mean 6 inch log. They won't handle that. Keep sharp blades change oil regular like, ad cut big crotches before loading and they are a step above the average homeowners machine, but the drawback is the replacement parts are spendy

 

[2000ssm6]

Thanks. I figured as much with the DR, will pass on it. If the 625 can handle a steady diet of 2"-3" stuff it will be fine. Anything bigger than that will be great for firewood.

 

[angelo c]

you can find older Bandit 100/200/150s for cheap money and they are built hell for strong. Cummins motor...older designs but a winch can be plumbed ( or come with it) .

easy to work on
most parts are still available.

I would not look at smaller machines( for more money)

 

[2manyhounds]

I wish my old bandit it had a Cummins, I got the old Wisconsin 55. She's a runner but takes a bit to get there.

 

[Dub11]

Local rental place has bigger ones were Iam at. Just a thought not sure how often you would use it.

 

[2000ssm6]

Update;

Got a 1987 Vermeer 620 with the 20hp Kohler. Came from a retiring tree guy that was the original owner, hour meter was dead but it doesn't seem to be used much. I've done all the fluids/filters and changed the knives. She runs/cuts good, eats 3"-4" stuff steady with no problem. Will eat larger but the feed roller has to be controlled for the flywheel to spin back up.

There are 6 hours on the new meter, now to find a cheap chip truck, lol.