"Topcat" Forestry Mulchers?

[akmountaineer]

Does anyone have knowledge of or experience with Topcat drum mulchers for skid steer? I was considering buying an SSFM81 for occasional land clearing use as they are more affordable than others, however, I'm concerned about longevity and parts availability and not sure if the company is even still in business. Any feedback is appreciated. Thanks!

[Jeff]

I dont know anything about anything past watching two different mulcherheads (same machine, different heads) work on my property this summer, and I remember thinking, I hope these things are easy to work on, because its obvious they take a beating in rough or rocky ground. To me durability means ease of repair because something is goona get busted. Look at that.

[treemuncher]

Never heard of them. You get what you pay for. Buy cheap and it will be junk in no time. Mulching, even with a little machine, is an exercise in self destruction. If you can't pay or know how to fix it, a mulcher will also run you broke in no time.

Of the 4 different brand of drums that I currently own, I would only purchase the two big Italian makes again. Everything else breaks down faster and requires more consistent attention to stay running. Even these good ones need lots of maintenance. I've had to rebuild the housings due to excessive wear after only 3k hours, but I build them up better than stock for long term performance.

[mike_belben]

... To me durability means ease of repair because something is goona get busted...

x 100! 
I build all my own junk with 'how will i get to that when this part fails' in mind. Everything breaks.  Anything good has maintenance designed in from the start, not inhibited to sell more.  Like "maintenance free" lead acid batteries.  A sticker that hides the maintenance ports doesnt make it maintenance free.. It makes it maintenance unlikely!