Skip Loader for Big Bales

So.... I have been meaning to replace my loader tractor for awhile. Its a JD4240 2wd (obviously). Its old and tired, cab is trashed and missing door, shifter has a problem putting itself in Park when going from F to R, years of loader work have been hard on the front end, loader is loose and leaky and creaky, etc. And I have to load 3x4's one-at-a-time 'cause it tears it up worse if I try to do 2. I really hate having a front-end loader on a tractor for doing anything but loading for visibility and turning purposes. Not to mention that they are hard on the front end. So have been considering other options.

 

A smallish wheel-loader or a big forklift would be the best answer, but I already have a very large wheel loader and a small forklift, so I really wouldn't get any versatiltiy out of either. I would love to have a telehandler for other chores, but after using one in a field, I was very disheartened by how bad they scuff your regrowth. And not to mention pack the heck out of your ground at 18-20,000lbs.

 

A backhoe had occured to me, however I already have a backhoe, so I don't need another. And I can't use the one I have for hay, as it gets used almost daily for dirt work.

 

Then it hit me. How 'bout a skip loader? They have the extra-stout loader frame and front end (MFWD, of course) of a backhoe, a hot-foot (aka foot throttle) and a shuttle clutch. But what really is appealing is the 3-point on the back that I could put to use for other smaller chores (blade, border disc, etc) and at least be able to do something besides just load hay.

 

Here's what I'm looking at. http://ift.tt/1KLCn7l

 

Any thoughts? What am I missing? I think its a very clever solution, but I'm hoping it won't turn into "Well, it seemed like a great idea at the time, BUT...."

 

 

 

 

Skip Loader for Big Bales