I think the Altec is heavier and their thinking is the boom is more stable over axle. Tha best rear mount ever for tree work was aerial lift of Connecticut. They had their boom turret right at the back of the truck. With cab to axle of 84” it was the best setup. They had a squared torque box...
It’s pushing the limits with a 8,000 chipper. Not just overweight but actually pulling especially uphill. If the rear was changed to a real low gear if would help immensely
Depends if it’s 180-195-210-or 230 hp. Also , if it’s a dog you could change the rear end gears to a lower ratio especially if it’s an automatic. One of my auto trucks has a 7:17 rear and 210 hp and it’ll pull anything loaded with a trailer
The avant- is 43” wide but the giant can be 35” wide if you get the dual wheel option if the need arises where you don’t want to take a fence down. The giant is 2 mph faster
I would say it’s even stronger especially the hd version. It sucks that we have to buy a low 40s machine but it does make the day go better and keeps employees happier especially long drags on hot days
The giant is way stronger than the 420. No comparison. Spend the extra money and get the telescoping. It’s like buying a big 18” chipper and not getting a winch.
I have an old Vermeer tow behind. Just today stopped by my local bobcat dealer and got a price for a rg55 gas for 45,000 with remote or 43,000 without. It’s just ridiculous how much it costs for not much of a machine. Just so it finishes a job.