Our company uses a bandit 250 powered by a cumminge turbo diesel we have had it since 91 with no majior problems. Although there is alot more service to do on a self feed chipper if you do it properly it will last you a long time. As for buying a chipper make sure you buy the largest motor they can put in that size chipper you are buying. Another thing you should try doing is renting different size chippers to see which one you like the best. As for the mobark 2400 i have worked behind one a few times before and it is one of those chippers that you just have to stand back and watch it is just incredible how much the 2400 will chip.Just remember service is the key to any good piece of working equipment.