Adding a skidder to the show

[madmari]

I am ready to add another skidder to my operation to increase production and to have a back-up machine.

There is a TJ 208D for sale locally, in good shape. Anybody have experience with 208 and 225 models? I have a 230D now and like the simplicity and ease of maintenance.

[Bert]

I wouldnt trade my 225 for anything. For a smaller skidder, it can really pull its weight. Breakdowns are rare, but should a problem surface working on them is easy and parts abundant. They really are an amazing machine for what they are designed. Its a very simplistic and basic approach that a working man can appreciate.

[quietrangr]

Those were always my favorite size. Not a lot of difference between the two. I had a 225 until I bought a forwarder. Try to find one with a Cummins or Ford engine. Not too happy with 353 Detroit.

[madmari]

Any axle or panetary problems? Heard they were light duty compared to a 230.

[FFLM]

I have a 208 and the the axels and planets are light, you can pull a 500 ft hitch, and as long as you are easy on her she will not let you down.  I have heard turning hard with a hitch will result in self destruction. I like my skidder but wish it had the axels out of a 225 or 230. I guess it would depend on the price. 
Good luck
FFLM

[smwwoody]

they are both great little machines.  208 planets are a little on the light side.  just look at the 3 brass pins that come through the planetary cover of the 208  if there is any oil weeping around them they will need some attention.

Woody

[HuZzEy]

If the axles are rockwell pr52's in the 208 they are light I bent a planet gear shaft in my treefarmer they are brass and pressed in and have a set screw just in case it loosens up witch thats what mine did and broke the set screw off I got a new used planetary from nash for $334. this axle now that I have one I see them every where in case w-14 loaders mostly today I saw one on a IH backhoe. I wouldn't be affraid to buy another skidder with them alot of planterys break and often it's just how you use it