ASV,Bobcat, or Cat compact track loader?

[RedDog]

Since I sold my tractor, I'm looking to purchase one of three brands listed above. I have virtually zero experience with a ctl, although I do own a Bobcat 331 mini ex.

I'm looking for around 80HP. My tractor was 65HP, so I do not want to go backwards. I would be using it for snow removal, some dirt work, and moving items with the forks. I will always find something to use it on!!

Once I purchase one, I will probably sell my 331 mini ex and buy a hoe attachment for the ctl since it doesn't get used that much.

Anybody have any pro's or con's of the 3 brands above in the 80HP range???

Thanks,

 

[JasG]

Are you going new or used?

I only ask because Cat was tied to ASV and some of the units had ASV tracks on them. I don't know what Cat uses for tracks now, very well could still be ASV. ASV now is owned by Terex

I don't know if it is because many of the ASV's see hard service or what but it seems like of the 3 that one seems to be the one people have issues with.

Personally I would go with Deere 1st, bobcat would be a close 2nd, New Holland would also be right up there. Never run a Cat or ASV. Heard many good things about Cat, and some bad about ASV. ASV was suppose to be addressing many of the weak points. So again if you go used, might want to really search for the issues. Seems like one issue was a motor mount that the bolt went through into the base. If this came loose the oil would drain out. I know that is here somewhere so search and you will find it.

 

[JasG]

Here is one of the threads on ASV with issues.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/construction-equipment/158882-another-asv-failure.html

 

[RedDog]

Forgot to mention, but definitely used.

To me the Deere is harder to find used and a little more than I want to give.

I like the Kubota motor in my 331, but I also really like the Perkins motor in the ASV's. Not sure what motor is in the Cat's.

Thanks,

 

[pjbci]

I was clearing a small lot with dozer about 3yrs ago and a guy showed up with a brand new cat (1st job) skid steer. He was going to clear the lot next to the one I was on. In 2hrs time I helped him put the left track back on twice and the right one once. He loaded up his machine, paid me to finish his job and left very unhappy. I dont know if this was just a lemon or common with asv track frames on cat skid steers. I just know it turned me off to asv tracks right quick like.

 

[sequoyah101]

I'm going with NH when I buy one. If JCB had enough sense to put a large hydraulic pump on the 210S that I have that would be a done deal. Ditto with my small articulated loader. Both are way better than a skid steer and are in the process of being fitted with skid steer adapter hitches. Same for the Komatsu trackhoe.

 

[JasG]

Forgot to mention, but definitely used.

To me the Deere is harder to find used and a little more than I want to give.

I like the Kubota motor in my 331, but I also really like the Perkins motor in the ASV's. Not sure what motor is in the Cat's.

Thanks,

Cat uses a Cat motor, the Perkins motor is also a Cat, Cat has owned Perkins for 14 years or more and they have been tied together for 20 or more.

 

[dawzie]

I have a 7 year old Bobcat T-300 gold series (all options). It only has 1600 hours on it. But when we use it, we use it hard. It's two main jobs is running a 8 foot "brushcat" mower. Kinda like a brush hog and a 8 foot power rake.

As with all track machines, they need alot of maintaince. One freind has a Cat, another has a Case. Neither has held up as good as the Bobcat.

Buying a used track unit can end up being a very regretable thing to do. If there isn't detailed maintaince records with the machine, stay away.

My machine needs new joy sticks, it's an up graded item now $3000 !!

In the final drive sprockets the very special oil "like $175 for 3 oz" NEEDS to be changed like every 500 hours, or buy new final drives for $3500. There are also two PITA to get to return oil filters that must be changed every 500 hrs.

Trying to keep our AC unit running is also a yearly repair.

Would I buy another Bobcat ----- absolutely --- but only new

 

[RedDog]

Appreciate the info.

It's looking like it's going to be a Cat 277 to go along side my Bobcat 331.

 

[Tomtint]

I have a Cat 246 tire machine. It has more than enough power for anything I do. The ASV track units are a maintence nightmare. The new cat units have a lower end like a dozer and are very heavy duty. I'm looking at a set of Logering tracks to put on mine now so I can have both a tire and track option. I did try a new Bobcat about 6 months ago... It was nice, all shiny and new but I just did not feel comfortable in it