Everyone here has offered valuable advice and I can't think of a better source to get real feedback. Have any of you considered the Fecon FTX100L? It is in the same size class as the ASV, and the TAK and Bobcat but it has the steel track undercarriage, puts out very good flow, operates at 5500 psi (which blows the others away!) and is a purpose duty built forestry machine that will hold up to the incredibly tough environment of every day mulching. It also does not overheat because the cooling cpacity is so much larger that they use for the mini track loaders or skid steers. They are running in the heat of AZ and at elevation in Colorado with no overheating whatsoever.
Additionally, especially in Colorado, the Fecon Bull Hog head is by fay the most durable mulcher of any maker. Fecon makes the ASV head, the Bobcat head, and the John Deere head, but only the red Fecon "Bull Hog" has the unmatched durability to stand up better than any other design. Also because you can choose from 4 different tooling options (double carbide, single carbide, stone tools, or chipper knives) you can tailor the tools to your application. Also, if you are mulching any more than brush, get the variable displacement hydraulic motor option. The productivity increase is well worth the minimal additional cost.
The FTX100L can take skid steer attachments so it has the versatility of a CTL but its main design is for mulching. It does not dump a bucket very well but other attachments operate great. What I tell people is that if more than 40% of their work is mulching then there is no better machine in this class than the FTX100L. If less than 40% of your work is mulching then a CTL may hold up and it might not be justifiable to spend the extra $ for an FTX100L.
Yes, I work for Fecon. I am very proud to say so. I truely believe we offer the best machine in this class both for dependability and productivity. I will put the FTX100L up against any CTL, skid steer, or other comparable hp machine and show you the differences first hand. I live and breath mulchers every day and I have not found a machine that compares.
If you want to take the next step up, look at the Fecon FTX148L. Look up the feedback on this site from people who have bought them. The FTX148L is an incredible machine.
I don't reply on this site just to spew Fecon mantra. I truely know that it is the best machine for the job and I am willing to prove it to any doubters. If you wish to know for certain, first hand, get in touch with me and I'll show you. :jawdrop: