Compact Track Loader, whos the best?

[Dunno]

One other thing to consider are OTT, over-the-tire-tracks. They are $5k new, but I got a lucky deal and paid $1k for basically new tracks from a horse farm. They are wider than regular CTL tracks, and mine weigh 900lbs, which adds to lift capacity on the machine. So maybe a good older skidsteer with the (used) tracks added will be a better buy. Best of luck.

 

[old and tired]

 

[NYlumberman]

Anyone have experience with the JCB side entry CTL.
JCB must be confident in the single lift arm system as they carry a lifetime warranty on bending/breaking the arm.

After owning a New Holland skid steer, with foot controls, front swing door, and a hip replacement, I traded for a used JCB 215T with under a 1000 hours. The side entrance was the big selling point, since I use my forks often, and it was very difficult and in my case painful to get out to place the risers. I am very happy with the machine, but note it takes awhile to master the “fly by wire” controls. Especially if you were used to directly actuated or piloted consoled valves.

 

[wooftank]

Pick a dealer that`s fairly close

 

[paulsharvey]

Our OP has already selected a Cat-249, which I assume is servicing him well. You can argue is cat is worth the price or not, but its hard to argue cat's parts support/supply chain

 

[Paystar]

I like running Kubota and Cat.
And I like the design of the JCB.
As far as entry, Kubota and JCB all the way.

 

[garry1p]

I prefer the Bobcat. I have never owned one but rented several and the Bobcat was the one I preferred.