there are a tremendous amount of variables that can fall into this equation.. For a machine, (that can match the best all around use) the 161 is the way to go,,, Biggest example is, manueverability vs most other machines out there,, Hydraulic power is important, rare if any, unusual warranty needs or even simple break down after thousands of hours, should be a concern.. A thousand gallon septic can be dropped with a 161. A 1500 can also, albeit, they are "skidded" in the hole rather than picked up high, then swung. The Takuechi 145 is a zero tail swing where the KX 161 is not.. This alone, can change hundreds of pounds in useful lift capability.. I've used many a a Takuechi for cleaning out drainage easements along the various roads in Holland MA and (all) Takuechi's at least to me, are tipsy to begin with. they can do an awesome job, septic tanks and the vast majority of my tanks were modified septics that we used for street drainage.. Holland, if you aren't familiar, is very hilly and surrounds Hamilton reservoir. Because this reservoir feeds Quabbin, (the one all you east of 495 get their water from) large catch basins (most were modified square septic tanks) are the requirement of the day,, If Holland wasn't so hilly, the standard round catch basins would have been used instead.. I know that Kahn tractor in lower Connecticut stocks 161's. There is enough laying around his yard that a true lift tests can be performed no problem.. remember, zero tail swings do not have the "oomph" like others being big or small...
"This morning I woke up with nothing to do. It is now afternoon and I already have over half of it done "
"Digging in hard clay is much more relaxing to a worm than going fishing"