First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to those who have assisted me in my search and provided invaluable advice. My biggest concern is the number of hours on the 2005 T-300 with a gold package, equipped with AC/heat/power bobtach and selectable hand or foot controls. I initially considered purchasing a smaller machine, the MTL16, but it seems the dealership has already taken a deposit on it. The presence of a beacon, fleet number, and a 2-way radio on the machine suggests it was previously owned by a company, hopefully indicating that it was well-maintained. As I intend to use it for personal purposes on my farm, I am curious if there were any significant issues with these types of machines that I should be aware of before making a purchase. The machine is priced at around $20k, which seems like a bargain, but is there anything I should be cautious of despite the seemingly low price?
While I have appreciated the performance of Bobcat machines in the past, I am not a dedicated fan due to concerns about their build quality. The T300 models are reliable performers, but personally, I believe a CTL with 3000 hours will end up costing a lot in repairs. Currently, used construction equipment prices are extremely low, so take your time and hold out for a machine with lower hours, whether it's a Bobcat or another brand.
In a recent discussion, BAREIN expressed their skepticism towards the build quality of Bobcat machines despite acknowledging their good performance. BAREIN believes that a 3000-hour CTL machine may end up becoming a financial burden due to potential issues with drive motors and undercarriage. With the current market trend of used equipment selling at low prices, it is advisable to wait for a machine with lower hours to avoid potential costly repairs. For instance, an example was given where a TK130 with 600 hours sold for only 14K on Iron Planet. This serves as a clear indication of the declining equipment values, presenting opportunities for better deals in the near future.
As a Bobcat equipment enthusiast, I must admit that there are some valid points to consider. The cost of a new machine was around $45k, but it seems to be around $55k now. The potential investment includes a $20k machine as-is, $10k for new drive motors (if needed), and $10k for a new engine (usually required around 3000 hours). Despite ongoing revisions to components, the ACS bugs have not been fully resolved. Bobcat continues to adjust and update the software, with the latest update to actuators in April. ACS and SJC can be costly expenses, unless you purchase a new machine and trade it in before the warranty expires. Investing $20k in a used, fully-loaded T300 is a wise choice, as it is a rare find that is unlikely to be let go by its current owner.
After discovering that the drive motors were recently updated at 1300 and 1876 hours, I realized that not many people have reported issues with Kubota motors at 3000 hours. However, I am considering conducting further research on this topic to gain a better understanding.
According to kmcraig, I discovered that the drive motors were recently updated - one at 1300 hours and the other at 1876 hours. While issues with Kubota motors at 3000 hours seem rare, it may be worth delving deeper into research to learn more. This information is surprising to me as well. #kubotamotors #updatemotors #driveunits #researchneeded
Answer: - Answer: High hours on a machine can indicate wear and tear, leading to potential maintenance issues down the line. It's advisable to inspect the machine thoroughly or consult a mechanic for an evaluation.
Answer: - Answer: Some common issues with Bobcat T-300 machines include hydraulic leaks, electrical problems, and track tension issues. It's recommended to inquire about the machine's maintenance history and conduct a test run before purchasing.
Answer: - Answer: Machines previously owned by companies may have been well-maintained due to commercial use, but it's essential to verify the maintenance records and inspect the machine for any signs of excessive wear or neglect.
Answer: - Answer: Despite the attractive price, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the machine for any hidden defects, test its functionality, and consider factors such as warranty, spare parts availability, and ongoing maintenance costs before finalizing the purchase.
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