MYTC presently owns and operated until December 2022 a vintage 1970 Case 580 backhoe which is regularly used to maintain over 100 cross drains, manages 22 identified recurring slide zones, over 10 miles of drainage swales and ditches, and ~12.5 miles of the limestone trail surface.

This machine is a 2-wheel drive limiting operation in wet areas, does not have an enclosed cab limiting year-round operation, and is not street legal. It is too heavy for MYTC to trailer to remote locations on our 15 miles requiring travel on the trail at the posted 15 MPH speed limit or to assist neighboring trail chapters with our present dump truck and trailer.

The unit is also obsolete making maintenance difficult. The local Case dealer will not work on the unit and had referred us to an antique equipment enthusiast who recently passed. The age and wear and tear also pose various safety concerns such as a lack of rollover protection limiting the usefulness. Operation is costly due to the inefficient engine package, various worn systems, and major hydraulic leaks that are costly to repair.

In late December while loading millings donated by Elizabeth Township, the diesel engine suffered multiple bearing failures. After an engine tear down over several Saturdays by volunteers, it has been determined that it is not economically feasible to repair or replace the engine on a machine that will remain 53 years old.

We are seeking a used wheeled backhoe/loader with the following significant features which will allow MYTC to better manage our service area in a safe and efficient manner year-round, reduce the need for contractor assistance, and to better respond to requests for assistance from adjacent trail chapters without the need to contract for equipment hauling. A modern machine will also increase the pool of potential volunteer operators. - Reasonable total operating hours - Dealer certified. - 4-wheel drive - Extend-a-hoe feature. - Ability to load both of our trail dump trucks and larger contractor dump trucks. - Enclosed all-weather cab with heating and cooling. - Street legal with associated SME vehicle registration. - Live hydraulics for the operation of attachments such as rock hammers and compactors that can be rented or purchased. - Ability to use existing Case buckets a plus.

MYTC presently has 2 volunteers trained in operating the 1970 machine, which is typically used at least weekly . A newer machine will allow for an expanded pool of volunteer operators to do suitable work with this machine rather than with contractors will save many thousands of dollars per year.

We also have a robust preventative maintenance program for all our motorized equipment. Major equipment is checked weekly and minor equipment is monitored based on use. Fluids and filters are changed annually or as specified by our shop volunteers. Our goal is to respect our volunteer’s time by having no preventable breakdowns while working on the trail.