If you only run about 170 separator hours per year, I can't see where you can justify having any more money invested in a combine than you already have.

JMHO, and I'm not wearing your shoes. If you have the money and want something different, go for it. I don't believe that it could be justified to an accountant-type, however.

You mentioned a larger capacity machine lasting longer because it would get less hours....it has been mentioned on here that the newer larger machines seem to wear out faster and it has been pointed out that bushels not acres cause combine wear-so a bigger one will have the same wear in less hours due to more BPH.