Scoop vs Loader

[Fuddy Duddy]

With the talk of using a scoop and seeing the work one can do with a scoop, it got me to wondering if a loader would do a better job or is the scoop better for pond digging?
Would using both at the same time be even better and faster? I'm thinking that would be the way to go. It would balance out the weight and move the dirt faster wouldn't it?
But then, Wouldn't the dirt need to be plowed first to loosen it to be picked up with the scoop or the loader? So maybe a loader with a plow on back would be the better route.
Just wondering. I've never used a scoop. Or dug a pond for that matter.
Any thoughts?

 

[John (TR)]

You are right, the loader is used to transfer material, not dig it up. it would be nice to have both. I personally use a loader and a box blade with ripper shanks.

 

[souNdguy]

scoops are good at digging. loaders are dood at hi-lifting stock piled material.

most loaders did into virgin undisturbed earth very poorly.. whereas scoops do it pretty well.

soundguy

 

[old]

A whole lot depends on the loader. If it has power down then it will work well if gravity down it will not work well. Another thing the think about is rear end weight if you do not have fluid in your tires and a heavy implantment on back no way. I have used my 841 with power down and a heavy back blade and about 600lbs on the blade for that type of work and it does well. But I was also a heavy equipment operator for years so I know how to get the most out of a machine

 

[Jimmyjack]

I can think of a zillion better ways to dig a pond. Thats really pushing the limits of this little tractor.

 

[old9n]

Using a subsoiler to loosen the dirt first will help.
It would have to be a dry area. I don't think you could dig much if the water table is high.
Slow process eather way with what were talking about using.

 

[old-9]

Good advise below. I am currently getting ready for a new building, I used the scoop to remove the sod and dark soil to a pile and fill in some spots in yard, scoop was the perfect tool. Now am using my loader (NAA) to move 4 truckloads of sand into the hole and build it up. Next will come gravel and fine limestone. I hope to get a pretty good hard surface.
So much for computers for now have to load up for plow day. Joe

 

[Ultradog MN]

You will be surprised at how well a rear scoop works for excavating. And you will be surprised at what an unruly behemoth a loader makes of one of these tractors.

 

[gahorN]

(quoted from post at 07:25:32 04/17/10) You will be surprised at how well a rear scoop works for excavating. And you will be surprised at what an unruly behemoth a loader makes of one of these tractors.

Exellent words. A loader on an N-Ford is a heavy beast, and few of them are very convenient to use on anything other than moving manure or other loose piles of gravel/dirt. They are all very hard on the front axle and steering and most make mounting/dismounting difficult and dangerous, and add complication to engine maintenance.

If I truly had to have a loader....I'd buy a different tractor.