Check out Joes Auto sales in Fl. When he goes through a truck, he goes through it. His mechanics are all ex Altec guys as I've been told. I spent 25K on my rearmount. Altec says it needs 38K in repairs. Most of which I've done on my own, but they are still repairs. My suggestion, don't spend...
Hell no. My acct 179ed my new chipper two yrs ago. I am not happy that she did as now, like John says ,I have to double down to keep up with what I cannot write off. Which means I just pay more to the govt. faahk that!
The crackling is from moisture at the mic connection. A little dielectric silicone goes a long way! As far as the non communication, try updating them or even resetting them. If someone gets pissy and hits the button too many times, it can really throw things out of whack.
I work in mostly tight spots. I love the stability of the Boxer, but wish It had everything an articulated machine has to offer. Also,my suppose if you've got the same person running the articulated machine every day, they would be the master of its abilities. I've seen my competitions machine...
If you have a rookie roper, tie in under your rigging sling. Since my experience, although I was not hurt, I will always tie in under. I'd rather take a ride at the top and/or have my lanyard pinched once in a while, than take a ride to the ground.
I think too many would use them as a work platform if they were reversible. This could lead to more falls from line cutting. I know I do not tie in twice while on the Wraptor. Although I only cut what's in my way.
Bring your friction saver up with you and attach it when you get there. That will bring your hitch closer to the unit. Make up a carrier like for a roll of tape on an electricians belt.