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I've never owned a Cat, but by all accounts the 941 and 955 are excellent loaders. Cat is generally regarded as the best (which is somewhat debatable, but not in terms of sales), and these two models certainly don't have a reputation for being lemons, that's for sure. Basically the advantages of the 941 and 955 over the newer 953 types is that they are cheaper to buy up front (given comparable condition), and are generally cheaper to maintain. They have the earlier technology torque converter/powershift transmissions, which are very durable and long lasting as long as they are cared for properly. Plus they are cheaper to rebuild and maintain and are somewhat less sensitive to dirt/contaminates than the newer hydrostatic (hystat) transmissions (which is what a 953 has). The downside is that they can't work as fast as a 953, which can actually counter-rotate each of its tracks independently, thereby making it more maneuverable. And there are also some advantages to having the engine in the rear, which include better weight distribution and improved visibility for the operator...although I've heard mixed things about this, for some tasks a front engined loader apparently has it's own advantages as well. But if you're a small timer just getting started, a good 955 or 941 will work perfectly for what you want to do. I have an IH tracked loader right about the size of 941 and it'll do everything you mentioned and then some. Good luck
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