Vermeer SC30 vs Bandit ZT1844

[mcdc66]

Looking at these two units due dealers near me and the area operating in. I need a compact unit to fit in some very tight places. Have narrowed it down to these. 26.5 HP VS 38 HP on the Bandit. Bandit wins here. But Vermeer has a hydraulic drive for the cutter which equals less maintenance. Also, the Vermeer has the autosweep which may not be the most efficient but does prevent an newbie operator from causing stress to the machine. I know that big stumps are a no go. Just looking for 20 inches or less. Thanks

 

[Merle Nelson]

On hyd cutter wheels a lot of power is lost. Think I have heard as much as 25% of the power. When you're starting with a weak powered unit already that can hurt.

I believe I have rented that Vermeer unit. Can you post a link to it? Now own the 38hp Bandit. But, I've only done a couple of hours of stumps. It's a worker for a small machine.

 

[mcdc66]

https://www.vermeer.com/NA/en/N/equipment/stump_cutters/sc30tx

I believe its 10% power loss for hydro and around 5-7% for belts. So I would say its a wash. How is the belt guard around your bandit. Does it affect your accessibility at all. I will be demoing the Bandit this week coming I will probably have more questions then. Thanks

 

[Merle Nelson]

Thanks for putting that link up. I have rented that Vermeer a number of times and liked it for its agile maneuverability but always wanted more power.

Nice you can demo the Bandit, I suspect you will like it. Guard seems to function fine - I can't get to belt. Grinds are about the last thing on my list of interests so it may be a while till I figure out how to adjust up the new and newly stretched belt.