[Greensmith]

I have signed up three new clients and they have large 2 acre wooded properties. I am anticipating quite a bit of leaf and branch removal come fall.

We did one of the customers for a spring cleanup and that turned out to be a time nightmare needing three days and 7 truck loads worth of debris. They are all in the same wooded lot area, and I think it will be more of the same.

I have been looking at a leaf loader at Lesco to speed up that part of the process and reduce trips with the reduction ratio on the leaves. I looked at minuteman parker but their cost was half that of Lesco. Must be a catch right?

My question is, is there a chipper that can function as a loader as well? I am looking to spend under 7K since I don't have the jobs to sustain anything more than that yet.

Any suggestions or tips are appreciated.

[Lanelle]

I'd check at the local rental yards and rent a unit for a few days--include that cost in your estimate.
Many chippers have chutes that will shoot the debris so it can be aimed into a covered truck bed. If you miss the truck, plan on paying for neighbors windows.......

[Greensmith]

Heh, I am so paranoid of chippers. I have been half putting the purchase off for fear of having my guys around them.

I went to a rental yard today with that in mind and the guy was pretty disrespectful. He barked out that his chippers dont do leaves and then pretty much ignored me.

Great, thanks for the info. #$#$$$%

[Lanelle]

I guess the flip side of that observation is that a leaf vacuum will shred and move leaves but won't do sizable branches.
And I trust that your last comment wasn't directed at me....

[Ax Man]

I wouldn't be concerned over the parkers quality, If you are buying a 16 hp truck loader, it will be built for moving the leaves.
I have a billy goat 11 hp, a bit underpowered, when you want to get'er done.
Rent the chipper when you need it. probably spring and fall, maybe after a big storm.
And keep your hands away.

[Greensmith]

Originally posted by Lanelle
I guess the flip side of that observation is that a leaf vacuum will shred and move leaves but won't do sizable branches.
And I trust that your last comment wasn't directed at me....

Oh no Lanelle, I value your opinion! That comment was at the United rental jerk.

Axman, thanks for the info. I was wondering how much horsepower effects the throughput.

Thanks all !