I'm having dozer envy! bz, h20fwlkillr is right, the rental company should go over everything in great detail. The last thing they want is someone destroying their machine or property because he didn't know how to operate it. The best advice I can offer is to watch your blade. It will take quite a bit of practice to keep your blade from digging in too much or losing contact with the dirt. As you go down a grade you will need to ease up on the blade to keep from digging in when you reach the bottom. When you go up a grade you will need to apply some pressure to keep it in the dirt when you crest the top of the hill. Sorry for rambling, but what I am trying to say is that it is easy to create a "washboard" effect and get frustrated if you don't master the "stick". Easy gentle movement. For me, I use light tapping motions on my stick. I find it gives me more control. You will find the JD very responsive. I prefer it to the CAT and Komatsu. Also, angling your blade will help keep you from digging in too much. Plan on spending some hours just getting the feel of the machine and the controls. Don't let yourself get frustrated. I wished I lived close enough to come over and help!
