I am in the market for a skid steer and would like input from experienced users. My main tasks will involve grading, dirt and stone moving, and light excavation. I am considering purchasing a used model, with the Bobcat 773 and Cat 228 falling within my budget. While some recommend Bobcat for its reliability, opinions on Cat skid steers would be appreciated. Additionally, I am curious about the average lifespan of skid steers when properly maintained.
Although I haven't owned a bobcat, I do have experience with a John Deere 240 and a Caterpillar 236. Both machines have served me well, but the controls on the Cat are exceptionally user-friendly. The light touch and responsiveness make operating it a breeze. While the traditional hand/foot setup is fine, the Cat controls are incredibly easy to adapt to and won't wear you out. It's not uncommon to find skid steers with around 10,000 hours, although that may be on the high side. If you're interested, I may soon have my 236 for sale and could also acquire a 226 with very low hours. I'm not a dealer, just someone who enjoys working with used equipment. Additionally, depending on your location and intended usage, investing in a skid steer with a full cab and heat can be priceless in the long run.
Seeking advice on purchasing a skid steer for grading, moving dirt, and light excavating. Considering the Bobcat 773 and Cat 228 models within my budget. Some suggest Bobcat for reliability, but unsure about Cat. Wondering about the lifespan of skid steers with proper maintenance. The Bobcat 773 and Cat 228 have different features such as ROC, loader arm configuration, and hydraulics. For a 773-like machine, consider the Cat 232; for a 228-like machine, consider the Bobcat 763. A demo is recommended to truly compare. In the 1500 ROC class, the 228 may be preferred, but between the 232 and 773, further testing is needed. Browse forums like tractorbynet.com and lawnsite.com for in-depth skid steer reviews.
Since 2000, I have been the proud owner of a Cat 248 with approximately 1200 hours of use. During my shopping process, I tested out various brands in the same class including Case, John Deere, New Holland, and Bobcat. However, I found the pilot controls and control pattern of the Cat 248 to be superior, making my decision easy. The loader operates with a standard one stick loader control pattern using the right stick, eliminating the need for a learning curve. The left stick allows for easy navigation by simply pointing where you want to go. The controls on the Cat 248 are extremely smooth and responsive, allowing for precise grading that I couldn't achieve with other machines. Additionally, the foot-operated accelerator, similar to a vehicle, aids in fine work by providing the right amount of fuel needed for each operation. With the foot not needed to operate the boom, it is easy to adjust the fuel load as necessary. Although I tested a Bobcat with pilot controls a year ago, I found them to be less smooth and responsive compared to the Cat 248. However, improvements may have been made since then. Furthermore, the Cat 248 is known for its quiet cab, eliminating the need for ear protection during loader operations. This significantly reduces fatigue levels after a long day of operation, making it a standout feature of this machine.
I am a fan of the air conditioning system in the bobcat cab for its cool and refreshing breeze.
Kamerad47 expressed his enthusiasm for the air conditioning system in the bobcat cab, but nowadays, many manufacturers are offering AC in their cabs. Steve Frazier shared his positive experience with his Cat 248, highlighting the superior pilot controls and control patterns compared to other brands he demoed. The smooth and responsive controls allow for precise grading and fine work, with the foot-operated accelerator providing added control. The Cat's pilot controls are praised for their smoothness, although some users may prefer the "feel" of Case's controls for digging and feathering. The Cat's quiet cab also stands out, reducing the need for ear protection during loader operations and minimizing fatigue levels after a long day of work.
Answer: Both skid steers are commonly used for tasks such as grading, dirt and stone moving, and light excavation.
Answer: The Bobcat 773 is often recommended for its reputation of being a reliable and durable skid steer.
Answer: Users' opinions on Cat skid steers, like the Cat 228, can vary, so it's beneficial to gather insights from experienced users.
Answer: Factors to consider include reliability, performance, maintenance costs, and overall suitability for your specific tasks.
Answer: The average lifespan of skid steers can vary depending on usage and maintenance, but with proper care, they can last for many years.
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