I won't get out of my truck with a screw driver for less than $50/hour. I also run a CAT with an ASV UC and until you have seen the maintenance intervals and costs to do said maintenance on these machines you can leave the room or just keep quiet because you honestly have no clue. And until you know what it is like to break down on a site and literally have to pay thousands to get back to work and finish the job then you don't know what you are talking about either. It is not merely the cost of the machine and the attachments and all of the other expenses associated with each job. I've had several conversations with the CAT service techs and I can't tell you how many times they have told me how good guys go broke and out of business when their machines break down simply because they do not anticipate and incorporate these costs in to their services and can not pay for the repairs. Luckily, I do not rely on mine for all of my income and I do all of my own maintenance and emergency repairs. I will occasionally take it to CAT service. I have replaced blown hydraulic hoses in the woods where you have to partially remove the track. I have replaced final drive motors on job sites and complete U/C's at my shop including tracks. I've replaced work group OBC's, serviced and repaired turbos and fuel systems. As I am the owner/operator, I am very careful with my machine whereas I see a lot of guys tearing around on them and placing undue stress on them which they can handle to an extent. My point is that it costs a crap ton of money to operate these machines and many people have no clue and I don't care how careful you are you will have problems and you better be ready $$$. I've been asked so many times if I will rent mine and my answer is,"No Sir. It's me and the machine plus my spotter and that is the only way my CAT will be used. I hope you understand." Many folks just don't realize the costs associated with the business. They simply have no clue. $100 and hour with a four hour minimum is more than fair until you start mulching or using other hydraulic assisted attachments like trenchers, augers and such.
