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Re: looking for best directional drill

Drilling conditions ( sub-surface ) and product you will pull-back determine the required HP range of machine needed . For drop service ( assuming sometimes there will be fence gates,narrow alleyways, limited set-up area ) , the smaller the footprint , the better . I know there are several manufacturers , including some from europe , but I have only used Ditch Witch,Vermeer , Case , and StraightLine . For Service Drops , I recommend Ditch-Witch 520 JT & 920 JT , or Vermeer D6,D7, and D7x11a , or maybe a D10x15a . When it comes to MainLine work , diameter and weight of the product , length of the bore , soil / rock conditions are some of the major determining factors in the formula . You have asked to general a question to answer your Main-Line needs . All manufacturers compete in similar HP and #'s ( or kilograms ) of Thrust / Pull-Back Range . In that case , I have let the operating specifications of the machine help me in the selection . In example , if you have 2 basically identical machines from different manufacturers , ( regarding HP / Thrust-Pullback ) , at what RPM are they achieving that range ? ( Engine life ) Fuel consumption ? ( Expense ) Realistic Availability of Parts and Service ? ( Downtime / Lost production ) . And one of the most important factors ? Operator Friendly ? Is the operator station ergonomic ? operator fatigue leads to costly mistakes / damage ( to machine or underground structures ) . Can the machine be routinely serviced in-field ? Is the machine mechanic-friendly , as well ? There are constant improvements / upgrades to the newer models . I know of one that has just been announced , and already upgraded . The newer and bigger machines are adding more and more electronics . Are they modular ? Lastest controversy is chain or rack and gear ??? The jury is not in on that one yet .
I hope I have been helpfull . Please feel free to contact me for further discussion . (stretch)(roll)(spin)(usa)
This is CABL.com posting #125438. Tiny Link: cabl.co/mGNm
Posted in reply to: looking for best directional drill by reg dunlop
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