Looking to buy a D5K size dozer for smaller project and versatility. What to buy/why?

Hello,

I need a good 6 way blade dozer for driveways, knocking down dirt on fill sites, slopes, finish work, house sites, covering pipe, ballfields, and general small jobs. I also do clearing in conjunction with a 320c excavator.

I had a Cat d5G on lease a few years ago and loved it. But, I didnt keep it long enough to know the long term.

I am looking at the BIG PICTURE. We keep our equipment a long time.

I would like to buy used.

I optimally would like an EROPS cab but I may sacrifice if the price is right.

I may want rippers on rear.

I like the serviceability of the d6n size dozer with the high drive design but that may be overkill.

I have always preferred Cat products for the BIG PICTURE due to getting mechanics to work on them...parts availability, aftermarket parts availability, research and development, operator familiarity, loan value, wix filters, hoses...etc...



Power isnt everything as I have been on many strong Horsepower komatsu dozers that seemed to fall apart after 4000 hours compared to Deere and Cat. It is easy to turn up the fuel screw but in the BIG PICTURE...I want long term reliability and ease of repair and profits. But, I am willing to keep an open mind....



What would be the hour limit when buying a used machine of this size?

% of undercarriage in comparison to price?



I will be running this in steeper areas in Georgia Clay with occasional



Any tips?



Thanks so much.