Options on a new Lt-50

[HaydenS]

I put an order in for a new machine last May and I just got an email asking to add options for the build. I currently have an Lt 28 with log handling package and use borrowed equipment for loading. I currently saw solo and only for my own needs at the moment. 

I'm leaning towards adding the remote option, possibly the debarker, and if budget allows a 24' extension. I thought about the command station but it limits total maximum length and Im young enough stooping for hydraulic log handling doesn't bother me for a few decades.

Thoughts, opinions, and suggestions please. 

Thanks,

Hayden

[WV Sawmiller]

  I don't have an LT 50 but I do have a debarker and highly recommend that.

  How about wide head option? Are you interested and did they offer that? Another item to consider.

   BTW - as to the extra length - what are you planning on sawing and do you have the MHE to lift and handle logs that big?

[Full Circle]

I also suggest the debarker.  

[SawyerTed]

After 7 months with my LT50 , here are my thoughts. 

+1 on getting the debarker.  

The Lubemizer is worth the money, especially if sawing long beams and lumber. 

The high performance guides are a a cheap addition with mixed benefits .   The high performance guides reduce the width capacity.  Seems people love them or hate them, I think they are a must on a wide model.  

For my purposes, command control beats walk along.  As you mentioned, length is limited with command control and the energy chain.  Being out of the sawdust and debris works great, if I didn't have command control the remote would be a high priority. 

Here long logs 20' plus are the exception so an extension really wouldn't provide me with enough specialty business to justify the cost.  If long beams are a niche in your market that's underserved and logs are available, the extension is a good idea.  It's a high return for relatively small investment and not complicated.  Material handling is the biggest consideration.  

The board return is an awesome feature if it fits your sawing.  But if beams and heavy timbers are the bulk of your business, I'd consider passing on it.  The board return does speed production if lumber is the bulk of your business.  The board return does reduce the capacity between the blade and frame a few inches.  

The diesel is a whole other bag of worms.  The Yanmar is a top notch engine, it makes sawing a joy.  It's plenty of power.   BUT the cost difference is a serious consideration.   At $11,500 +/- the ROI has to be figured carefully.   I got mine before the price jumped up.   If I were deciding now, I'd have to think hard about the LT70 instead of the 50 with the diesel.  The choice would be between the 50 gas and the LT70.  

[Stephen1]

Super, Debarker, lubemizer, wide head, drag back, Diesel if you are going to saw full time and big logs. I have the 38 Kohler gas and like it, but if there was a next mill it would be diesel.
Remote control is probable the best option out there. My buddy swears by his. It keeps you out of the sawdust. It  also will allow you to put the extension on. 

[ladylake]

 Sharpener and setter should be first on the list.  Steve

[stanmillnc]

I agree with SawyerTed. I've been sawing with my new LT50 for a month now and love it. One feature not mentioned yet that I find particularly useful is the laser. I am sawing in a shed however, so not sure how visible the laser would be if outside. 

Debarker is a must, in my opinion. Lubemizer is worth the additional expense as well. I do like the command control station, but it's a costly upgrade. My LT50 is electric, but my old LT40 was 38hp gas and it had plenty of power. As others mentioned, the diesel upgrade is expensive; I'd personally stick with the 38hp gas and save the ~$12k.