Sam, thank you for the great service that you provide to the public. I hope to gain equipment and follow in your footsteps. I appreciate every video you produce. I really appreciate the gospel and scripture you provide in all of videos. Keep up the good work Sam, God bless you brother.
Thank you, I appreciate that. I hope you're able to get your equipment and start digging. I enjoy this work and making videos. Glad you are enjoying the videos and especially the message. That's the best part... Gid Bless, Sam
Hey Jason, I appreciate what you said. I hope to help folks in that way. Self employment has a lot of demands but also a lot of positives as well. Wish you well on your plans… God Bless, Sam
Just started watching your videos a week or so ago. Been taking some notes down for some future goals my wife and I have. This video in particular was just perfect for a good amount of equipment to try and acquire. We don’t want to take on any bigger jobs than what we can handle on our own like most of your jobs. Love what you’ve got going. Keep up the good work.
Thank You and I really appreciate that feedback. It helps to know what folks enjoy watching. I wish yall the best in the work you are going after. If you have any questions or would like more info about something feel free to ask. My email is in the channel description area. I certainly appreciate yall supporting the channel. God Bless, Sam
Man with all the equipment you have, I’m 100% sure you could make an awesome boat ramp that you won’t get stuck on! Maybe a project for sometime down the road?
Yes Brendan I would love to make a nice boat ramp but the state owns an easement along the river bank and we can’t do anything like a boat ramp or a dock. 🙄
Sam, glad I came across your channel. I launched into FT excavation about a year ago and wish I had done it 20 years ago. Love this work I am also your "neighbor" as I live over in Charleston/Cleveland. My company is Dirt Crafters. Love the equipment you have and I 100% agree about putting Christ first in your business. I agree that I could not do this without him.
Well hello neighbor, and welcome to the channel ! 😀 Thanks Jimmy, I appreciate that. Cool to hear you have started your own excavation business. I really enjoy this work too. Glad to hear the Lord is first in your life as well! God Bless
Enjoyed the video Sam. I see that you even have mishaps when you go fishing. At least I'm not the only one that has some bad luck. Be Safe and GOD BLESS
That is cool that you found the channel that way. I think it is interesting how folks find the channel. I appreciate you subscribing and welcome to the channel... Sam
Thanks Gary, I appreciate it. Glad you are enjoying the videos and watching/commenting... If yall aren't watching them I would look pretty goofy just talking to a camera 😁. God Bless San
@@tristardiggin you sound like me I’m 60 still getting it on 5-6 days a week do you want to buy my 2005 315 it’s only got 2700 hours it would look good next to the rest of your equipment
@@tristardiggin I’m thinking about selling it i hardly use it seems like I’m doing everything with my 305 it’s a great machine it has 28 pads and long stick
First time ive ever watched one of your videos and dang. I like what I see. wish i worked for a guy like you thats knowledgeable and could teach me a thing or two about construction and operating equipmemt!
Thanks Xavier, I really appreciate you watching and commenting. Sounds like you are excited about learning how to operate equipment. Well, I hope you can find a company that will take you in and teach you the ropes. Honestly, I have learned a lot of techniques and trick from watching folks on UA-cam. I wish you well and God Bless... Sam
Definitely enjoyed the video. Maybe consider fabricating the skidsteer root rake to attach it to your 308. Might be handy for clearing jobs. Just a thought. Good message. Have a good one.
watching the video, call over from DP pod-cast he was having sound issues so here i am. interesting video. looking forward to seeing some action with your equipment.
@@tristardiggin I don't think you can put a ripper on a dozer that size I was looking at a D6H-XE I think it's the smallest you can go with a ripper due to the wear and the abuse the undercarriage takes
I enjoyed hearing the stories and how you obtained each piece of equipment. Everything Attachments in Newton, NC just built a new facility to keep as much as possible USA. The Wicked Root Grapple looks impressive. Possibly a future boat ramp renovation video??? Tony is a very lucky guy!
I will check them out. I have seen some of their advertisements. Would love to work on the boat ramp area but they state owns a 75' easement and you can't do any type of improvements on it, like a boat ramp or dock. Bummer😩!!!
Hi enjoying your ch I'm a fan of idigit and so wonderful for your friendship, you have saved him we see his smile back! Love your Christian Bible study thank you so very much ❤ 🙏 I love hearing guys explain how just because we have computers, TVs we have lives just like them! God bless!!❤
Thank you, I appreciate that and for supporting the channel. Without you and folks like you it wouldn't be growing. Good to see Davin's big ole smile! 😁 God Bless, Sam
Great video and equipment setup Sam. Thanks for putting it together. It’s never easy during the season to get everything together all at once. Love the 304. I am looking for a good size excavator to go with my 289D. I’ll have to look at the 304. Do you ever give away shirts or hats? Have you ever thought about selling some shirts with Bully or Anchor on it? Have a blessed Sunday Sam Tim in Ohio
Thanks Tim. A 304 or 305 would be an excellent partner for the 289D. I did do a shirt giveaway on an earlier video when we finally got close to 500 subscribers. I have gotten a few shirts made that I wear on the channel. They are embroidered so they probably cost more than screenprinted shirts cost. I plan to do some giveaway/drawings at 1000 subscribers. But that is a great idea doing something with Bully and Anchor on it. I need to find someone who can design shirts and hats and then make them for me... Sam
Yes, as best I understand. If you are commercial (for hire) and pull a trailer that is rated over 10,001 lbs you have to have a class A. Very confusing to me but that is what I understand...
Hi Sam..Very Nice line up of Equipment Sir 👍🏻 I enjoy the Channel Buddy , Keep up the Good Work.!! Have a Great and Safe Week ! Take Care Evert So That is a No on the Fish Fry .?? 😂 Dog gone the Luck !!
I really like the looks of the next gen 304. Especially like the stick steer capability that it has. Haven't operated a 303.5 but I can say that I'm impressed with what the 304 does for its size. Can't go wrong with either one of those machines. Only thing I would change is the quick connect. I really wish I had went ahead and got the hydraulic quick connect instead of the manual one. Thanks, Sam
Been working my way thru your old vids and saw this one and had to make a couple requests ..first I guess if you haven't filmed it I'd like to see the skin swap on the roller..also a bit more on the big dogs that stay with the cattle PS; If you knew someone who had equipment you might get him to improve your boat ramp
I do have a video that shows the shell being put on. I will have to figure out which one and will send you a link. The dogs are Great Pyrenees and they are bred for guarding livestock. Gentle babies until something gets into the field with the livestock. It over then for what ever it is that gets in the field. I would love to fix that boat ramp but the state owns an easement 75' back from the river and I can't do much to it.
@@tristardiggin TNX Sam I just went back and watched the video where you took the pads off but hope to find one of you putting them on as that I'm sure is the tricky end.but I'm still doing the marathon of all your content so I'm sure I'll run on to it. I guess the ? I had on the dogs was do they stay out with the cattle 24/7 and have you taught them to eat grass or do you go and feed them everyday?
Well, I went back and what I thought was putting them on was, like you said, taking them off. So, I don't think I have one putting them on. But I can definitely say it is a pain in the backside, for sure. Yes, the Pyrenees stay out in the field 24/7 guarding the cows. I do feed them daily but they also catch small animals too...
I did some advertising on Facebook Market Place and went around to some of the mini barn and small building places and left cards. One of those places was sending me jobs and I would give the lady $25 for each referral that I did a job on. Got hooked up with another larger excavation company and they sent me calls they didn't want for 10% commission on the jobs. You could also try the 2x2 yard signs. I see a lot of those around, but haven't used them. Eventually word of mouth and repeat customers will kick in too. Hope that helps some. Most important thing is doing the best work you can so you build up referrals and repeats...
Hey nice setup Can you film a shop/storage area And wash rack setup if you have one Just getting started and would like to get it right the first time Thanks
That is one thing I wish I had was a good shop. At the moment I just use that pole barn you see in the video to store and a place to work on stuff. Would love to have a concrete area too, setup with power and water. I have a hot water pressure washer but have to take stuff up to the house to use it. Hopefully next year I can focus on getting a place setup. Always like to hear folks are getting started in the business. Wish you well. If you have any questions just let me know, be glad to help...
Thank you and I appreciate the encouragement. Faith in Christ is the most important decision a person can make. I hope you have time to catch more of the videos on the channel. Certainly appreciate your comment to help the channel. God Bless
Hi Sam, nice equipment. I think a good idea for a video would be to go more in depth about how you got started in excavation. For example what kind of jobs you started doing, learning to run new machines etc. Keep up the good work!
Thanks and I appreciate the comment and feedback. I have a few videos that talk about those things and I will go back and find them. I will copy a link here on the comment. Thanks, Sam
Do you haul the dozer on the diamond c often or just across town? I have a D5 and 30k gooseneck and have been wondering how the trailer and truck would handle the dozer.
I have hauled the D5 a few times on the Diamond C with the Ram 5500. The Ram is rated at 44k gross, so it did well with it. The trailer is a 20k trailer. It handled it ok just a little under rated for the D5. I would say your 30k trailer would do well as long as your truck is rated for the weight. I tow it with the dump truck now. It just seems safer that way...
I left a comment yesterday but I think UA-cam removed it. Check your held for review comments. Any way thanks for the mention, and foster hydraulics makes hydraulic power packs for that application that might be a good option.
12 acres. Grass, sandy loam beautiful rockless soil at least 8’ down. Need driveway, trench electrical. Build pad for house, etc. what equipment should I get? Thanks very much
If it’s relatively flat you could do pretty all of that with a skid steer and a min x. If you have a lot of digging to do you may want to get a bigger excavator. Hope that helps and wish you well in your project…
The D5 weighs around 22k. The International handles it great. It even handles the 313 very well too. I talked with a DOT officer about being over weight for the truck and he said the way I was hauling was legal. However my tire rating on the trailer tires could stand to be a little higher for the 313.
It has a 7.3 turbo engine and a 5 speed manual transmission. I really that truck. Hope to fix it up a bit some day. That old square body Ford style is my favorite.
I’m watching some of your older video. You have some nice equipment. Do you know who makes the front bumper on the ram. I have a 2001 3500 that I’m going to fix up and I think that bumper would look good on it.
Can u do a video on how someone can start an excavation business ? When I always c videos with these bunch of equipment I wonder how the financing works or how people can afford these machines.
Will look at mentioning that in a future video. To start out you basically start small with one machine and as experience level and types of jobs change you grow with it. Getting stated is the hardest part because you are trying to find customers and jobs. After you get established word of mouth and repeat customers take over, along with what ever advertising you do… Thanks
Thanks Kyle, I appreciate that! Getting started is definitely the hardest part. Really all depends on experience level and then the ability to buy the equipment needed. I generally recommend starting out part time until your work builds up to where you can go full time.
Tough question. A fella could make a living with the 304 and the 259 skid steer for sure. But really it just depends on the type work you want to sort of specialize in. The 304 would not be suitable for land clearing but excellent for residential and small commercial work. But all in all the 304 would probably be the one to pick since it's big enough to do some heavy clearing but still small enough to do work around houses and buildings. I do wish both of them had blades that would angle. I appreciate the recommendation for this video. It just took me a little bit to get it done...
I am a new subscriber, really like what I saw today. I will be trying to figure out where you are located since I heard you mention Tennessee, Ringgold, and buying the excavator from Walmart in Fayetteville. Although I now live in Rome, I graduated Central HS in Fayetteville, many years ago.
Thank you for subscribing and I really appreciate the feedback on the channel. I'm not to far from Rome, GA about an hour and forty five minutes. I'm in the SE corner of Tennessee in Polk County. Thanks, Sam
I am starting my business now and was wondering your opinion of if you should finance equipment or try and save and buy it outright? Buying it might lead to older equipment at first where financing could be new. I know everyone is a different circumstance. Thanks
I tend to buy newer equipment because I’m not a mechanic and would rather be working than paying someone to repair. Not saying newer equipment doesn’t break, but it’s less often. Had an older diesel mechanic answer this question for me by saying you can either make payments or pay repair bills. If a guy is a descent mechanic and has all the tools than buying older equipment isn’t necessary a bad idea either. Everyone truly has a difference of opinion on this but at the end of the day you kind of figure out what works best for your business. Thanks, Sam
I can only compare this in terms of trucking. This would be like one trucker owning 5 or 6 big rigs....and 5 or 6 different types of trailers. And the customer only cares about that one type of load...on that one type of trailer on one particular day they need the product moved. However....meanwhile you still have the expenses and upkeep maintenance of those 5other big rigs that the customer never even sees back at the yard terminal.
Similar, I suppose, but not quite the same. When building a pond I need the dozer, excavator, haul truck, packer, and dump truck to haul equipment etc… In excavation work you need all types of equipment on the same job when you move into larger jobs…
Sammy Awesome video and explaining and sharing how it all came around 👍🏻isn't funny how you try to go fishing and get some down time to relax and it seems to always turns into more work. 😳 Take care Brother best wishes to you all. By the way how is Lucas doing?
Thanks Jon. Yup it just seems like most things are a mess. Oh well, good entertainment, I suppose. Never a dull moment around here, that is for sure! Haven't talked with Lucas in a while. I seem him on the road occasionally. When he is around that means I'm about to spend some money.😳😁
Thank you Linda and I appreciate y’all supporting the channel. I hope to have a video soon talking about the drawing for the T-shirts. Will definitely put y’all in on the drawing. God Bless…
Hi, I purchased 308 E 2 just like to know what the biggest bucket can I use with this excavator the one It came with is trenching bucket also I purchased aftermarket thumb could you please show how to connect the lines. Thanks.
Hey Paul, congrats on the 308. I had a 36” bucket and that was probably about the max to handle material. I no longer have the 308 though. I sold it when I bought the 313.
Nice equipment fleet. I'm just curious being a farm, if you have an actual CDL A or B, or do you have a Class F certification to haul your equipment? Here in Michigan a Farm can get an F endorsement for hauling equipment but are restricted to 170 miles from your farm.
I have a Class A CDL now that I’m doing excavation work. But when I was farming full time I drove under the farm exemption. You are limited to, I think, 150 miles within the state. Doesn’t require any special license or testing for farm use. Thanks, Sam
It is definitely a big bucket. I guess I better hang on to it. I don't use it much but it's handy for lightweight materials. Not familiar with Afton but will look it up to see where you are... Thanks, Sam
@@tristardiggin i pig hunt, I have one in front bumper and one up on the rear rack…. 300-400 lb pigs are no fun to load the hard way. Where you located?
@@tristardiggin South Carolina…close to Myrtle Beach. Pig hunting is our outlet, fun and can do it all year long. Hunt with thermal and night vision. Give several away and put some in our freezers too.
@@p.b.sHUNTING Cool. I was up in that area to buy an excavator forestry mulcher just a little time back. Visited with Idigit4 (Davin) while I was there.
Wow! And this was 2 years ago... Over million in inventory! Congrats! God has been good!
Thank you Aaron! The Lord has certainly blessed the business…
I had a heart transplant too Tony. Praying for you right now sir...thanks for the video
Tony is flat out doing amazing after his transplant. He is dealing with dialysis at the moment but looks and feels 100% better...
Sam, thank you for the great service that you provide to the public. I hope to gain equipment and follow in your footsteps. I appreciate every video you produce. I really appreciate the gospel and scripture you provide in all of videos. Keep up the good work Sam, God bless you brother.
Thank you, I appreciate that. I hope you're able to get your equipment and start digging. I enjoy this work and making videos. Glad you are enjoying the videos and especially the message. That's the best part...
Gid Bless,
Sam
I ENJOYED WATCHING THE VIDEO
Thank you Randy I appreciate that!
Sam
Thanks for sharing. You're motivating many people who may be timid of going out on their own, me included.
Hey Jason, I appreciate what you said. I hope to help folks in that way. Self employment has a lot of demands but also a lot of positives as well. Wish you well on your plans…
God Bless,
Sam
Very interesting ... and informative too
I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the comment...
Just started watching your videos a week or so ago. Been taking some notes down for some future goals my wife and I have. This video in particular was just perfect for a good amount of equipment to try and acquire. We don’t want to take on any bigger jobs than what we can handle on our own like most of your jobs. Love what you’ve got going. Keep up the good work.
Thank You and I really appreciate that feedback. It helps to know what folks enjoy watching. I wish yall the best in the work you are going after. If you have any questions or would like more info about something feel free to ask. My email is in the channel description area. I certainly appreciate yall supporting the channel.
God Bless,
Sam
Nice vid., nice toy's.
Thanks Tim, I appreciate that!
Sam
Man with all the equipment you have, I’m 100% sure you could make an awesome boat ramp that you won’t get stuck on! Maybe a project for sometime down the road?
Yes Brendan I would love to make a nice boat ramp but the state owns an easement along the river bank and we can’t do anything like a boat ramp or a dock. 🙄
Sam, glad I came across your channel. I launched into FT excavation about a year ago and wish I had done it 20 years ago. Love this work I am also your "neighbor" as I live over in Charleston/Cleveland. My company is Dirt Crafters. Love the equipment you have and I 100% agree about putting Christ first in your business. I agree that I could not do this without him.
Well hello neighbor, and welcome to the channel ! 😀
Thanks Jimmy, I appreciate that. Cool to hear you have started your own excavation business. I really enjoy this work too. Glad to hear the Lord is first in your life as well!
God Bless
That was a cool drawing. Enjoying this video, so ready for the witnessing at the end!
Thank you Randy! Not sure where that idea came from 🤣. Glad you like the message. That's the best part...
God Bless,
Sam
Thanks for the overview of your equipment.
Thanks and appreciate you supporting the channel...
Sam
That's a nice setup! I'm just getting started with a dump truck and skid steer and hopefully soon a mini excavator. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Danny, I appreciate that! Skid steer and a dump truck is a good way to get started. Won’t be long and you will have that mini too…
Sam
Yes it won't be long and you will have your equipment
Very nice
Thank you Jimmy! 😀
God has blessed you with a lot of equipment brother
Hey Todd, He sure has and I’m very thankful for what the Lord is doing with this business and UA-cam channel…
God Bless
@@tristardiggin amen God bless you brother
you got some nice equipment.
@@tnbunpkin19 Thank you I appreciate that!
Sam
Enjoyed the video Sam. I see that you even have mishaps when you go fishing. At least I'm not the only one that has some bad luck. Be Safe and GOD BLESS
Right, only time I'm safe from something breaking is when I'm asleep! 😁🤪
Nice complete set up
Thanks! Still adding and trading…😀
Nice equipment setup
Hey Rodney, thanks I appreciate that. And thanks for commenting...
Sam
Found you threw some comments on the Build Witt channel.
Subscribed
That is cool that you found the channel that way. I think it is interesting how folks find the channel. I appreciate you subscribing and welcome to the channel...
Sam
What a great video. Thank you!!!
Thanks glad you enjoyed it!😀
Nice setup. Hard to beat yellow and black.
Yup, I'm kinda partial to it. I just wish they had more reasonable prices on their parts...
nice tools and video
Thanks I appreciate it. Thanks for the comment.... 👍
Awesome video bud, great arsenal of work horse's, thanks for sharing an god bless 💪🇺🇲 Jesus lives
Thanks Derrick. I appreciate it. And yes He lives and because of that we have hope!!!
God Bless,
Sam
Enjoyed the video on your equipment. Really enjoy this type of videos with small equipment.. keep them coming!
Thanks Gary, I appreciate it. Glad you are enjoying the videos and watching/commenting...
If yall aren't watching them I would look pretty goofy just talking to a camera 😁.
God Bless
San
Great line up of equipment. Much success in your business.
Thanks Mike. God has really blessed us for sure...
Cool vid, Sam. Thanks for the shout out. Let me know when you have a drawing for the D5!
No problem, glad to do it, you do good work. Man, that would get a lot of views and comments for a D5 drawing 😳.
I see that I need to rest up if I go fishing with you lol. Have a blessed one!
That is no joke! It's always an adventure around here.
Thanks...
Nice equipment Sam
Thanks, since I have it lined up I was thinking of having a retirement auction 😁.
@@tristardiggin you sound like me I’m 60 still getting it on 5-6 days a week do you want to buy my 2005 315 it’s only got 2700 hours it would look good next to the rest of your equipment
Oh wow! That is tempting. I have been looking at 312s and 315s.
Thinking about selling the 308 next year and going a little bigger...
@@tristardiggin I’m thinking about selling it i hardly use it seems like I’m doing everything with my 305 it’s a great machine it has 28 pads and long stick
If you get a minute send some pics to my email. Tristardiggin@gmail.com
Would be interested in looking at it.
First time ive ever watched one of your videos and dang. I like what I see. wish i worked for a guy like you thats knowledgeable and could teach me a thing or two about construction and operating equipmemt!
Thanks Xavier, I really appreciate you watching and commenting. Sounds like you are excited about learning how to operate equipment. Well, I hope you can find a company that will take you in and teach you the ropes. Honestly, I have learned a lot of techniques and trick from watching folks on UA-cam. I wish you well and God Bless...
Sam
Keep going strong , great channel!
Thank you I appreciate that!
Sam
@@tristardiggin well deserved, lots of long hours and hard work went into building anything of this magnitude. Much respect
Que dios te bendiga amigo magnífico equipo ❤
Thank you Juan, I appreciate that!😀
Definitely enjoyed the video. Maybe consider fabricating the skidsteer root rake to attach it to your 308. Might be handy for clearing jobs. Just a thought.
Good message. Have a good one.
Wow! Nate that is a GREAT idea! I've been wanting a rake for the 308 and I just hadn't thought of that. Thanks for the idea 💡 😀
watching the video, call over from DP pod-cast he was having sound issues so here i am. interesting video. looking forward to seeing some action with your equipment.
Hey Trent, welcome to the channel and I appreciate you checking out the videos.
Thanks,
Sam
Awesome Video! I need that setup! Future goals for sure! Keep the grind alive!
Hey, thanks I appreciate it. Been watching some of your forestry munching jobs. The videos are looking good. Great work...
Awesome set up buddy hope you have many more prosperous years
Thank you Chris! Hope you are doing well yourself...
God Bless,
Sam
You have a great line up of equipment Sam now you should get a D7 or a D8 with a ripper. Keep up with the Cool videos 👍
Yeah buddy! That would be a great sizer dozer. 😁 Boy those suckers are expensive too...
I do need to check into a ripper for the D5, that would be handy on that hard ground...
@@tristardiggin Maybe expensive but it would save the life of your D5 for the easy pushing
@@tristardiggin I don't think you can put a ripper on a dozer that size I was looking at a D6H-XE I think it's the smallest you can go with a ripper due to the wear and the abuse the undercarriage takes
It is already plumbed for it. Just have to mount it and hook up the hydraulic lines...
I enjoyed hearing the stories and how you obtained each piece of equipment. Everything Attachments in Newton, NC just built a new facility to keep as much as possible USA. The Wicked Root Grapple looks impressive. Possibly a future boat ramp renovation video??? Tony is a very lucky guy!
I will check them out. I have seen some of their advertisements. Would love to work on the boat ramp area but they state owns a 75' easement and you can't do any type of improvements on it, like a boat ramp or dock. Bummer😩!!!
Tony is doing better and is definitely fortunate to get a new heart...
If you had to start over and you could only have either the 304 or the 259, which machine would you choose and why?
Probably the 259 just because you can do so many things with a skid steer, considering all the different attachments you can get for them.
It would be fun to work for you! I'm moving to Estill springs here in a few weeks!
Thanks Taylor! I’ve heard of Estill Springs but haven’t been there that I know of…👍😀
Hi enjoying your ch I'm a fan of idigit and so wonderful for your friendship, you have saved him we see his smile back! Love your Christian Bible study thank you so very much ❤ 🙏 I love hearing guys explain how just because we have computers, TVs we have lives just like them! God bless!!❤
Thank you, I appreciate that and for supporting the channel. Without you and folks like you it wouldn't be growing. Good to see Davin's big ole smile! 😁
God Bless,
Sam
Great video and equipment setup Sam. Thanks for putting it together. It’s never easy during the season to get everything together all at once. Love the 304. I am looking for a good size excavator to go with my 289D. I’ll have to look at the 304.
Do you ever give away shirts or hats? Have you ever thought about selling some shirts with Bully or Anchor on it? Have a blessed Sunday Sam
Tim in Ohio
Thanks Tim. A 304 or 305 would be an excellent partner for the 289D. I did do a shirt giveaway on an earlier video when we finally got close to 500 subscribers. I have gotten a few shirts made that I wear on the channel. They are embroidered so they probably cost more than screenprinted shirts cost. I plan to do some giveaway/drawings at 1000 subscribers. But that is a great idea doing something with Bully and Anchor on it. I need to find someone who can design shirts and hats and then make them for me...
Sam
New subscriber. Great story.
Thanks Glen, I appreciate you checking out the channel and subscribing! 😀
Beautiful setup. I could do some damage with that obs ford, 304, and 259.
That would definitely be a great combination to get some work done. Thanks for commenting...
Good video man. Dirt Perfect sent me here. I like your videos 👍🏻
Thank you George, and welcome to the channel! I appreciate you checking it out…
Sam
Do you have to have a Class A CDL to drive the 5500 and pulling the 304 and 259 at the same time?
Yes, as best I understand. If you are commercial (for hire) and pull a trailer that is rated over 10,001 lbs you have to have a class A. Very confusing to me but that is what I understand...
Hi Sam..Very Nice line up of Equipment Sir 👍🏻
I enjoy the Channel Buddy , Keep up the Good Work.!!
Have a Great and Safe Week !
Take Care
Evert
So That is a No on the Fish Fry .?? 😂 Dog gone the Luck !!
Thanks Evert. Right, if you are depending on me to catch a fish we are in big trouble.
What do you think of the new 304 next gen? They went with slimmer width between tracks. I have a 3/4 ton truck and debating between a 303.5 and a 304
I really like the looks of the next gen 304. Especially like the stick steer capability that it has. Haven't operated a 303.5 but I can say that I'm impressed with what the 304 does for its size. Can't go wrong with either one of those machines. Only thing I would change is the quick connect. I really wish I had went ahead and got the hydraulic quick connect instead of the manual one.
Thanks,
Sam
you got new subscriber
Thank you and welcome to the channel. I appreciate you supporting the channel too...
No mention of the rock saw?
I think this video was before I bought it. Not 100% sure on that though…
Thanks,
Sam
Been working my way thru your old vids and saw this one and had to make a couple requests ..first I guess if you haven't filmed it I'd like to see the skin swap on the roller..also a bit more on the big dogs that stay with the cattle
PS; If you knew someone who had equipment you might get him to improve your boat ramp
I do have a video that shows the shell being put on. I will have to figure out which one and will send you a link.
The dogs are Great Pyrenees and they are bred for guarding livestock. Gentle babies until something gets into the field with the livestock. It over then for what ever it is that gets in the field.
I would love to fix that boat ramp but the state owns an easement 75' back from the river and I can't do much to it.
@@tristardiggin TNX Sam I just went back and watched the video where you took the pads off but hope to find one of you putting them on as that I'm sure is the tricky end.but I'm still doing the marathon of all your content so I'm sure I'll run on to it. I guess the ? I had on the dogs was do they stay out with the cattle 24/7 and have you taught them to eat grass or do you go and feed them everyday?
Well, I went back and what I thought was putting them on was, like you said, taking them off. So, I don't think I have one putting them on. But I can definitely say it is a pain in the backside, for sure. Yes, the Pyrenees stay out in the field 24/7 guarding the cows. I do feed them daily but they also catch small animals too...
Looks like its time to put a little road in for the boat launch that you will not sink in to lol.
Would love to modify that for a nice boat launch but the State owns a 75' easement and no improvements can be done to the landscape. Bummer 😫
I am just starting out in this line of work and was wondering how did you advertise when you first started out. Thanks you
I did some advertising on Facebook Market Place and went around to some of the mini barn and small building places and left cards. One of those places was sending me jobs and I would give the lady $25 for each referral that I did a job on. Got hooked up with another larger excavation company and they sent me calls they didn't want for 10% commission on the jobs. You could also try the 2x2 yard signs. I see a lot of those around, but haven't used them. Eventually word of mouth and repeat customers will kick in too. Hope that helps some. Most important thing is doing the best work you can so you build up referrals and repeats...
@Tristar Diggin' awesome thank you I appreciate that info and will try that around here. Thank you again
Hey nice setup
Can you film a shop/storage area
And wash rack setup if you have one
Just getting started and would like to get it right the first time
Thanks
That is one thing I wish I had was a good shop. At the moment I just use that pole barn you see in the video to store and a place to work on stuff. Would love to have a concrete area too, setup with power and water. I have a hot water pressure washer but have to take stuff up to the house to use it. Hopefully next year I can focus on getting a place setup. Always like to hear folks are getting started in the business. Wish you well. If you have any questions just let me know, be glad to help...
Nice ending not many contractors have faith in Jesus other then lip service. Thank you for your witness.
Thank you and I appreciate the encouragement. Faith in Christ is the most important decision a person can make. I hope you have time to catch more of the videos on the channel. Certainly appreciate your comment to help the channel.
God Bless
very nice, Q1- normal buying price and how customers are charged for d5 n 308. kind regards
Thanks I appreciate that. I have since sold the 308 and bought a CAT 313. I generally charge by the day at $1600 per day for the D5 and 313…
Sam
Hi Sam, nice equipment. I think a good idea for a video would be to go more in depth about how you got started in excavation. For example what kind of jobs you started doing, learning to run new machines etc. Keep up the good work!
Thanks and I appreciate the comment and feedback. I have a few videos that talk about those things and I will go back and find them. I will copy a link here on the comment.
Thanks,
Sam
Do you haul the dozer on the diamond c often or just across town? I have a D5 and 30k gooseneck and have been wondering how the trailer and truck would handle the dozer.
I have hauled the D5 a few times on the Diamond C with the Ram 5500. The Ram is rated at 44k gross, so it did well with it. The trailer is a 20k trailer. It handled it ok just a little under rated for the D5. I would say your 30k trailer would do well as long as your truck is rated for the weight. I tow it with the dump truck now. It just seems safer that way...
#myman 👍🏾💯
Thanks! 👍😀
I left a comment yesterday but I think UA-cam removed it. Check your held for review comments. Any way thanks for the mention, and foster hydraulics makes hydraulic power packs for that application that might be a good option.
Ok thanks I will check for that in the held section. Glad to do that and thanks for the info. I will check that out...
Sam
Nice stable man, people don’t realize how much money that yellow stuff costs!
They are definitely proud of the stuff for sure. And really proud of their parts 😳.
Thanks,
Sam
12 acres. Grass, sandy loam beautiful rockless soil at least 8’ down. Need driveway, trench electrical. Build pad for house, etc. what equipment should I get? Thanks very much
If it’s relatively flat you could do pretty all of that with a skid steer and a min x. If you have a lot of digging to do you may want to get a bigger excavator.
Hope that helps and wish you well in your project…
the d5 is ~42k lbs? and the little 8100 pulls it ok?
The D5 weighs around 22k. The International handles it great. It even handles the 313 very well too. I talked with a DOT officer about being over weight for the truck and he said the way I was hauling was legal. However my tire rating on the trailer tires could stand to be a little higher for the 313.
What engine and transmission are in the f350
It has a 7.3 turbo engine and a 5 speed manual transmission. I really that truck. Hope to fix it up a bit some day. That old square body Ford style is my favorite.
@@tristardiggin my favorite also
I’m watching some of your older video. You have some nice equipment. Do you know who makes the front bumper on the ram. I have a 2001 3500 that I’m going to fix up and I think that bumper would look good on it.
Thanks I appreciate it. The bumper is a "Fab Fours" brand. Very tough and cool looking bumpers...
@@tristardiggin thanks I’ll look it up.
Can u do a video on how someone can start an excavation business ? When I always c videos with these bunch of equipment I wonder how the financing works or how people can afford these machines.
Will look at mentioning that in a future video. To start out you basically start small with one machine and as experience level and types of jobs change you grow with it. Getting stated is the hardest part because you are trying to find customers and jobs. After you get established word of mouth and repeat customers take over, along with what ever advertising you do…
Thanks
Here is an older where I talk about getting started and building jobs…
ua-cam.com/video/uTrUsUtdhDg/v-deo.htmlsi=VlEnIMDIjz0CRfim
Great videos any advice for someone starting out as a new business.
Thanks Kyle, I appreciate that! Getting started is definitely the hardest part. Really all depends on experience level and then the ability to buy the equipment needed. I generally recommend starting out part time until your work builds up to where you can go full time.
I enjoyed the video but I have a question if you were to pick one excavator which would it be 308 or 304 or another model
Tough question. A fella could make a living with the 304 and the 259 skid steer for sure. But really it just depends on the type work you want to sort of specialize in. The 304 would not be suitable for land clearing but excellent for residential and small commercial work. But all in all the 304 would probably be the one to pick since it's big enough to do some heavy clearing but still small enough to do work around houses and buildings. I do wish both of them had blades that would angle. I appreciate the recommendation for this video. It just took me a little bit to get it done...
@@tristardiggin Man thanks for the video I am looking at maybe starting a business and getting a 306
306 is a great size to start with. Another channel I watch has a 306 and 313. I really like that 313, very nice... Smith Worx is the channel
I am a new subscriber, really like what I saw today. I will be trying to figure out where you are located since I heard you mention Tennessee, Ringgold, and buying the excavator from Walmart in Fayetteville. Although I now live in Rome, I graduated Central HS in Fayetteville, many years ago.
Thank you for subscribing and I really appreciate the feedback on the channel. I'm not to far from Rome, GA about an hour and forty five minutes. I'm in the SE corner of Tennessee in Polk County.
Thanks,
Sam
I am starting my business now and was wondering your opinion of if you should finance equipment or try and save and buy it outright? Buying it might lead to older equipment at first where financing could be new. I know everyone is a different circumstance. Thanks
I tend to buy newer equipment because I’m not a mechanic and would rather be working than paying someone to repair. Not saying newer equipment doesn’t break, but it’s less often. Had an older diesel mechanic answer this question for me by saying you can either make payments or pay repair bills. If a guy is a descent mechanic and has all the tools than buying older equipment isn’t necessary a bad idea either. Everyone truly has a difference of opinion on this but at the end of the day you kind of figure out what works best for your business.
Thanks,
Sam
Mike Festiva can also help you out with your hydraulic dump trailer conversion to gas engine
Hey Carl, I appreciate the info on the trailer. I sold the trailer a little bit back. Just wasn’t using it enough to keep it around…
I can only compare this in terms of trucking. This would be like one trucker owning 5 or 6 big rigs....and 5 or 6 different types of trailers. And the customer only cares about that one type of load...on that one type of trailer on one particular day they need the product moved. However....meanwhile you still have the expenses and upkeep maintenance of those 5other big rigs that the customer never even sees back at the yard terminal.
Similar, I suppose, but not quite the same. When building a pond I need the dozer, excavator, haul truck, packer, and dump truck to haul equipment etc… In excavation work you need all types of equipment on the same job when you move into larger jobs…
Will you sell the ford pickup with dump bed
I believe I will hang on to it, I like that ole truck pretty good…
Thanks,
Sam
Sammy Awesome video and explaining and sharing how it all came around 👍🏻isn't funny how you try to go fishing and get some down time to relax and it seems to always turns into more work. 😳 Take care Brother best wishes to you all. By the way how is Lucas doing?
Thanks Jon. Yup it just seems like most things are a mess. Oh well, good entertainment, I suppose. Never a dull moment around here, that is for sure! Haven't talked with Lucas in a while. I seem him on the road occasionally. When he is around that means I'm about to spend some money.😳😁
@@tristardiggin I understand 👍🏻 Have a Blessed day
Hey Sam, my husband and I watch you all the time. We would like to enter for a free tee shirt. X-large. Thank you.
Thank you Linda and I appreciate y’all supporting the channel. I hope to have a video soon talking about the drawing for the T-shirts. Will definitely put y’all in on the drawing.
God Bless…
I know Wal-Mart😂. I’m from Fayetteville,TN
That's pretty cool you know him and came accross the video...
Sam
Yes sir the good Lord lead me to your channel brother. I enjoy watching your videos!
@@bradshelton3218 thank you! I appreciate that...
Mary Grace (my 3-year-old, and one of your big fans) asked, "Is he married, and does he have kids?"
Hey Josh that is funny! 😀Tell Mary Grace that Amy and I have a grandson near here age. Henry is 2 1/2 years old.
God Bless,
Sam
Hi, I purchased 308 E 2 just like to know what the biggest bucket can I use with this excavator the one It came with is trenching bucket also I purchased aftermarket thumb could you please show how to connect the lines. Thanks.
Hey Paul, congrats on the 308. I had a 36” bucket and that was probably about the max to handle material. I no longer have the 308 though. I sold it when I bought the 313.
Nice equipment fleet. I'm just curious being a farm, if you have an actual CDL A or B, or do you have a Class F certification to haul your equipment? Here in Michigan a Farm can get an F endorsement for hauling equipment but are restricted to 170 miles from your farm.
I have a Class A CDL now that I’m doing excavation work. But when I was farming full time I drove under the farm exemption. You are limited to, I think, 150 miles within the state. Doesn’t require any special license or testing for farm use.
Thanks,
Sam
You want to sell that big bucket you have for the cat 259. I need one for my bobcat t650. Thanks. This is tom in afton tn
It is definitely a big bucket. I guess I better hang on to it. I don't use it much but it's handy for lightweight materials.
Not familiar with Afton but will look it up to see where you are...
Thanks,
Sam
@@tristardiggin let me if you.chg your mind on the bucket. I need one to fill in my large swimming pool with clay and top soil. Tom
👍
Shocked you have a sxs with no winch.
Would be nice to have...
@@tristardiggin i pig hunt, I have one in front bumper and one up on the rear rack…. 300-400 lb pigs are no fun to load the hard way. Where you located?
Right, big pig to toss around without one. I'm in Southeast Tennessee, Polk County. What about you?
@@tristardiggin South Carolina…close to Myrtle Beach. Pig hunting is our outlet, fun and can do it all year long. Hunt with thermal and night vision. Give several away and put some in our freezers too.
@@p.b.sHUNTING Cool. I was up in that area to buy an excavator forestry mulcher just a little time back. Visited with Idigit4 (Davin) while I was there.
What year is the Ford dump truck? Is it 4x4? Is it gas or diesel?
It’s. 1997 F-350 4x4 7.3 turbo diesel. Great little truck for sure…