Just an update. The machine has been in the dirt under its own power for few days now. It runs well, there are a few issues I'll still need to address, all in due time.
I just did the first oil change, no surprises there. I'll cut the oil filter open, look for anything out of the ordinary.
Concerns are;
1. Motor never comes up to temp. Even under a heavy load water temp has yet to go over 125F. Still cool here during the day, probably later in the summer we'll see the water temp cycle up a bit more, when the ambient is higher.
2. EGTs have yet to even register on the gage. I think it rests at 660F. Engine paint has yet to even burn off of the exhaust manifold.
Issues that still need to be addressed:
1. Add new hour meter with built in tach. Book says peak engine output is at 2,600 rpms. I need to set the throttle stop below that.
2. Pins and bushings in the quick attach plate need to be replaced. She's "squeaky" when cycling the bucket. There's a fair bit of slop as well.
3. Machine does not sit level. The front of the VTS track system has a torsion tube suspension, not sure if that's collapsed or just way out of adjustment.
4. Lift arm cylinders are weeping just enough oil to need to be repacked.
5. Oh, and the operator (me) leaves a lot to be desired, but I'll get the hang of it sooner or later.
Other than those items, it's been earning its keep.
Short video of my wife moving topsoil.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIQIIhDKQcA