Here at Struck, we have different models that we are proud of, and all of them are special in their own ways. For this particular story, were going to feature the MINI-DOZER® MD196K and our satisfied customer Herb, who has customized his MD196K to his liking.
For those who don’t know enough about the MINI-DOZER® MD196K, here’s a brief introduction. The MINI-DOZER® MD196K is the “Younger Brother” of the MAGNATRAC® RS1000. Although it shares many of the same components as the assembled RS1000, there’s one thing about it that makes it different: it’s a no-frills, D-I-Y kit, which means you paint and assemble it.
Why Herb Wanted a MINI-DOZER® MD196K
Before Herb became a proud owner of a MINI-DOZER® MD196K, he studied it first for over a year. He reveals that he wanted to purchase the mini dozer, because it would fulfill a niche area as a homeowner with a wooded lot, and augment what the venerable garden tractor can provide.
He went on to add: “I also liked the fact that it can be used in a variety of ways, when coupled with attachments and modifications, so that future needs may be met as well.”
Why It’s Fun to Own a MINI-DOZER® MD196K
We at Struck take pride in our mini bulldozer’s capabilities. But it’s the experience that makes it unique for our customers—the ability to assemble a mini bulldozer with family or friends is simply special.
Just take it from Herb, who’s done a lot of personalization with this mini dozer.
He said, “I decided to fabricate my own ROPS based on an aftermarket unit, welding extra steel as necessary. I attached a trailer box and modified my old engine crane as a log winch. I used the farm jack as a essential tool to lift a side when performing track work. Recently, I added the LED lights, a yellow strobe, and back up alarm. The two latter items are on a “safety mode” switch to be used as necessary when around people. The engine he decided to use, is a 420cc 18 HP unit for a generator. I put an oil warning light in lieu of the engine kill function, and installed an hour meter.”
Herb said that the DIY kit is an absolute joy to assemble!
“If you are looking for the same type of experience, perhaps you should get one as well!” he added.
When he talked about how long it took him to complete his build, he said, “My build was 16 days from box to driving…with several hours of shakedown, re-tightening, and trying various operating techniques. Wiring was finished a few weeks later, once I decided on the wiring locations. I have to say that this is not the normal build time; I studied the manual for a good month before I had the kit, and pretty much worked on it full time during those 2 weeks. The painting takes a good deal of time especially when the weather does not cooperate!”
It took a lot of work for Herb to get his mini dozer up and running. But it was worth it.
Herb said, “With roughly 10 hours on the machine, I have already helped out a neighbor with stump removal, graded sections in my yard, carried pavers, towed a stump grinder, cleared super-tall overgrown weeds, and generally had a great deal of FUN.”
If you’re looking to pull smaller logs, make a garden, grade a driveway, plow snow, this may be the perfect machine for you. With some basic skills, and the detailed Assembly Manual, you can build your own Mini Bulldozer!
So, if you want to experience the pride and joy of building your very own bulldozer and using it to accomplish tough jobs, then click here to be a proud owner of a MINI-DOZER® MD196K.
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