Oxtrac (Forcat) Skidder by Tremzac

[xdarkknight]

So I'm looking at extractors of the future of a small forestry firm and am wondering if anyone has any thoughts on this little marvel.

Tremzac's Oxtrac (formerly Forcat) Skidder.

 

It's strong, does perfect doughnuts around trees, and has an ultra light impact on the forest floor.

I saw it at Cannock Chase this year and it looks a treat.

 

My big thought is that it's good, but is it good enough? Is it strong enough? Is it improvable (by the manufacturer or other fabricators)?

If anyone has had any contact with this or has some sound thoughts, please let me know.

Also, there's a great video on YouTube demonstrating some of this things abilities.

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InYaqkYKR1c]Berfor Forcat 2000 Mini Track Skidder[/ame]

[treedave]

I've worked with one in wet spots (sinking up to the knee as he drove past) and its good for that. Small brash mat that it doesn't tear up and you are away.

Yes plenty room for improvements, winch line capacity, lockable fuel cap (insurance requirement!), location / type of grease points on tracks, nose heavy with the diesel in, handle location / size for line release on winch, level of protection OK but commented on by local assessor as not good enough. Front blade could do with being able to rise higher to aid stacking.

Ground damage or lack of is impressive, easily pulled large Oak butts (20-25" by 16'). When its working it drinks go juice with ease (2 fills a day a norm).

Ease to get to site, a pick up a decent trailer will do it.

In the right place / job its an excellent tool, but as ever it has its limitations

[Root Beard]

Hey Buddy!

 

Bizzare. I looked up Oxtrac in Google. Saw an Arbtalk link. Clicked it. Then thought: I recognise that beard!

 

HELLO NEIGHBOUR and COMRADE!

 

x

 

[posch jon]

Good design:thumbup1:

Doesnt look like it would stand up to everyday use for long:thumbdown:

 

I saw them at the APF, the winch looked a bit of a toy, they are very expensive nearly £30,000 i think.

 

 

A 50hp crawler tractor and a winch is a much cheaper option, and much more versatile, oxtrac has no PTO or 3 pt linkage. so can only be used as a skidder.

 

Personally I wouldnt buy one, but depends on your needs

Edited April 16, 2011 by posch jon