I would like to get some opinions on various track loaders. I would like to buy an "all around" piece of iron for the farm/timber/creek. The creek is sand/gravel bottom and needs work preventing erosion, placing riprap, moving sand/gravel bars, etc. I also have fence row and timber clearing and cleaning to do. I'm thinking I would prefer about a 25,000 - 30,000 lb machine around 100 hp +/-, preferably LGP. Was thinking JD, CAT or maybe IH/Dresser. -Have heard bad things about big $ to replace hydrastat drives, also some bad things about sleeveless engines, etc. UC is not a big issue given limited use. I will probably only put 200-300 hrs on it per year but still want an "OK" machine that won't become a big boat anchor. I have a buddy who is a long-time heavy equipment mechanic so repair labor is CHEAP but want to avoid high $ parts if possible. Also don't want to be buried in a creek bottom Any ideas?