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Comfort is an important issue for Robinson. “I like to hear what an operator says about a machine,” he says. “If they like to run it, they can do a better job.

“The hydrostatic steering system has been so much easier for the operators to run,” he adds. “They are more productive with it. I have a guy on it that has been running dozers all of his life. He likes being on it. The controls are just operator friendly. That can really make a big difference with the production and the quality of the work.”

Robinson is also excited about a Caterpillar D6R purchased in October 2003. This tractor is equipped with the Rotating Bushing Track, which should help in the abrasive sand. “I think that is going to be one of the big benefits for the Caterpillar D6. It could cut your costs way down. You don’t have the downtime, and there are costs of pulling the tracks and sending them in to have pins and bushings turned,” he states.

The Rotating Bushing Track is designed to increase chain life when operating in sandy or abrasive conditions. “With the rotating bushing track, you do not get relative motion between the sprocket and the bushing,” says Kent Lynch, sales engineer for track--type tractors, Caterpillar.

However, as with any track configuration, there are limitations. “It is not recommended in high--impact conditions,” says Lynch. “When you get into conditions that might twist the undercarriage, it is probably not as solid as a standard chain.” Unless it is used in sandy or abrasive environments, you may also be unable to justify the cost premium.