Purchasing a Bobcat—a compact track loader, skid steer, or excavator—is daunting, especially for the novice. Bobcats are extremely renowned for their performance, versatility, and longevity, and because of it, they are now contractor's, landscaper's, and homeowners with plenty of acreage number one choice equipment. But purchasing the perfect Bobcat and the next step towards its purchase can be most frustrating without having proper know-how.
If you are a first-time owner, then you can go through the below article to learn five key facts that you would like to learn while buying.
1. Know What Type of Bobcat You Need
Bobcat" is an informal name given to a line of small earth-moving equipment manufactured by the Bobcat Company. There is, however, a specific application of each of the equipment, and it makes sense to determine your requirement before making a buy.
- Skid Steer Loaders: The best choice to perform a job over several requirements i.e. lifting, grading and loading. They are right to be used in small areas due to their mobility.
- Compact Track Loaders: Simply skid steers mounted with tracks instead of wheels, which supply them with more traction and working capability on softer spots, or just uneven surface.
- Mini Excavators: For trenching and excavation applications and demolition applications. Mini-excavators are used for landscape and utility applications as well.
As you buy Bobcats for sale, remember why you are buying the equipment. Buying the wrong unit will make you inefficient and it will pay you in the future if you upgrade or sell too soon.
2. Know the Difference Between New and Used Bobcats
One of the best choices you'll ever have as a first-time Bobcat owner is whether or not to buy a new or used Bobcat. Both have pros and cons.
New Bobcats:
- Are sold with guarantees and have no wear and tear.
- Have new technology and innovations.
- Need a larger down payment.
Used Bobcats:
- Are normally more affordable and are good value if maintained well.
- May come with wear problems, outdated features, or fewer lifetimes remaining.
- May need a good inspection and possibly some repair cost.
If you have no extra money but need the highest possible performance, a cheap low-mileage Bobcat in good condition can be a good purchase. Just make sure you inspect maintenance history, hours of usage, and body wear indicators beforehand.
3. Be Aware of Operating Hours and Machine History
Like car mileage, Bobcat hours make excellent gauge of condition. Cared for, most small Bobcats will reach 8,000 to 5,000 hours. Rule of thumb is:
- Under 2,000 hours: Light usage; likely to be a good purchase.
- 2,000–4,000 hours: Heavy usage; good buy if abused.
- Over 5,000 hours: Heavy usage; check heavy components for wear or soon-needed repairs.
Besides hours, always ask for maintenance history of the machine. A well-maintained Bobcat would have a maintenance history of oil change from time to time, change of filter, hydraulic servicing, and repairs. Be wary of machines with questionable or missing history because they will prove to be costly surprises later on.
4. Inspect Major Components Before Purchasing
Whether you’re buying from a dealer, an auction, or a private seller, a physical inspection is essential—especially for used Bobcats. Look at the following components closely:
- Engine: Look at the oil leaks, strange sounds, and possible wear.
- Inspect hydraulic pumps, cylinders, and hoses. Test attachments to ensure smooth movement.
- Tracks or Tires: Uneven wear or cracks could indicate poor maintenance or misalignment.
- Cabin Controls: Try all controls, gauges and safety features to determine they are in good working order.
- Undercarriage: This is the most expensive part to be fixed therefore make sure you check on any rusts, any damaged parts or overworn parts.
Do not be afraid of evaluating the machinery yourself but take a mechanic or an experienced operator. They might have a fantastic contribution in avoiding expensive errors.
5. Think about TCO and Funding Choices
The majority of initial purchase orders are only interested in just the down payment but should also take into account the cost of ownership. Some of these are:
- Insurance
- Maintenance and repair
- Fuel consumption
- Storage and transport
- Attachments and accessories
And don't count out financing. Flexible financing leases, loans, or rental-purchase agreements are offered by some licensed Bobcat dealers. These could help you indulge in more costly models or forego a whopper down payment. When signing on the dotted line, however, do ensure that you read small print and find out what interest rates, monthly rate and long term specials will cost you.
Conclusion
Buying a Bobcat for the first time is a thrilling adventure which can significantly boost your work efficiency and your productivity level. You, homeowner with ambitious landscaping projects, farmer, or independent businessman, can make a Bobcat pay—an investment in a few words—if selected well.
Briefly, then, are the five must-know first-time-buyer tips:
- Select the proper machine type corresponding to your requirements.
- Compare new and used strengths and weaknesses.
- Understand what service history and operating time are.
- Examine machine components closely before you buy.
- Consider the total cost of ownership and compare the shop for financing costs.
With due research and proper knowledge of your needs, you can make a safe selection of the best Bobcat available for sale and invest profitably in the long run.
