I have a gas 25hp drum 6" befco. 2" ball, 580kg with full fuel tank. Auto feed, driven by belts. Befco still makes the chipper, only PTO model. Works good for me.
Not sure if it was said. Top climber paid well. May be he can't afford you anymore? Boss might think I can get 2 or 3 more guys in exchange for you, but not seeing the big picture.
Nothing beats a supportive and active wife/partner. I'm insanely jealous of those who have that. IMHO, you have that, the sky's the limit. Not for me. :(