How an alliance built on durable equipment and strong service can turn a tough job into a successful business.
Stumps are a stubborn problem, but for Mike Lloyd of Stridem, they’re the foundation of a successful business.
For nearly 17 years, Lloyd has relied on Peterson equipment, supplied by Komatsu Forest, to handle the difficult work of grinding trees and removing stumps. This partnership, built on the strength of robust machinery and exceptional service, has been key to Stridem’s growth.
Lloyd’s equipment now includes a Peterson 2710D grinder and a Peterson 4310B drum chipper. He previously also owned two Peterson model 5000-disc chippers.
Lloyd points to the quality and durability of Peterson gear as a primary reason for his loyalty. Grinding is a harsh process and equipment needs to withstand significant stress to stay productive, particularly in the harsh environment of Western Australia.
However, he says the true strength of the relationship lies in the support from Komatsu Forest.
According to Lloyd, having a reliable supply of spare parts is critical, and the Komatsu Forest team, led by Brenton Yon, provides exactly that.
Beyond routine service, Lloyd praises Komatsu Forest for going the extra mile during his most challenging moments.
“We’ve had a few catastrophic problems over the time, no doubt about that,” he says. “And they just sort of swoop in there and help out how they can and get me back on track.”
This level of support ensures maximum uptime and business continuity, even when things go wrong.
The Peterson 2710D grinder is a central piece of equipment for Stridem’s operations.
Powered by a Caterpillar Tier IV C18 765 horsepower (563 kilowatt) engine, its large feed opening, measuring 153 centimetres by 81 centimetres, and high-lift feed roll, which can lift up to 112 centimetres, allow the grinder to handle large and difficult materials.
This high-performance equipment is essential because stumps are, as Lloyd puts it, “a nasty sort of material.”
But for Stridem, the work doesn’t stop with grinding. The company resells the processed material as mulch, biomass, or potting mix. The efficiency of the Peterson machines allows it to shred large volumes quickly, transforming a difficult waste product into a valuable resource. Lloyd recalls a time when his company relied on old, assembled equipment, but the move to Peterson gave it the ability to process a much wider range of materials, from massive trees to stubborn stumps.
By combining the power and durability of Peterson equipment with the reliable service and support of Komatsu Forest, Stridem has carved out a niche in a demanding industry, proving that with the right tools and partners, a difficult job can become a thriving business.
For more information, visit: www.komatsuforest.com
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