I'm in the middle of renovating an old 1/4 acre pond into a new 2 acre pond and trying to do it myself. I've completed cleaning out the old pond and have just about completed the dam for the new pond. My problem is that I'm left with a large area that is 3 to 5 feet deep and I would like a minimum depth of 4 feet and more if possible. The problem is that I have hit really hard clay. My small dozer (450c) and inexperienced operator (me) are having difficulty cutting the clay. Here is my questiion:

Would it be productive to cut the clay with a set of middle busters on a 55hp tractor and then push the clay out of the pond area with the dozer? I also have a small Kubota back-hoe (50hp) that I think might cut the clay. Looking for do-it-yourself suggestions to try this weekend and before the pond begins serious filling. Thanks for any input.

I would try the middle buster or a box blade with the prongs attached to it. You also might try a sub-soiler on the tractor if you have access to one.

Bob

I don't know about your dozer, but from my experience with assorted farm machinery, adjusting the blade angle (if possible) may be all you need to get a good bite in the clay.

If your dozer won't cut it, I doubt a middle buster behind a tractor will, either. If your dozer has a hydraulic lift and hookup on the back, you need to use it. Many dozer guys have a device which works like a middle buster, with big, deep, curved teeth on back of the dozer. They drive forward, teeth down, cutting through thick clay, then push it out of the way. Back and forth, quite efficient.
Part of the reason you can't cut is because the area is smooth. You can use your backhoe to "rough" up the entire area, and then push the dirt. Same result as above, different method.

I think you are right that the tractor will probably not have sufficient traction to do the job...but you have given me an idea that should probably work. I have a rather large heavy "rake" that I bought with the dozer to clear out brush. The rake will cut at least 6 inches per pass. I think that will work...will try that next. Thanks for the inputs.

The rake works like a champ...so well that I can actually scoop up the clay with my front end loader after raking with the dozer in several directions. Should have thought of this sooner. Thanks for the inpute.