Very low hour CT235 or a Brand new Branson 3015 - Sell me!

HawkinsHollow · Feb 17, 2019

My options have been narrowed down to a brand spanking new Branson 3015R for $18K, NUF SAID!! Or a yet to be seen 2009 Bobcat CT235 with less than 200 hours for an asking price of $12.5K maybe with bushhog, might be able to get them down a bit. It is from a co-workers inlaw; garage queen, elderly owner, low hours. Both are very capable machines, not sure I need the extra HP of the CT235, but cold forsee myself needing the extra lift capacity of the Branson. This will be used on my property for tree clearing work, dirt moving, firewood, road maintenance, tilling and food plot work. What says ye? I guess I am leaning towards going used and using the difference to get a grapple. But i'm torn, I think I'll know when I see it.

atsah · Feb 17, 2019

The CT sounds good, low hour garage queen, elderly owned bush hog maybe, might come down on the price, all good stuff.

Amvcane · Feb 17, 2019

That’s a lot of money for about 200 lbs more lift capacity. Sourced from TD.
I believe that CT came standard with many options which are now ala carte since tier 4 standards.
Telescoping 3pt. and sway bars, rubber mat and a couple of others.
I would buy the tier 3 emmisions CT235.

rgr33 · Feb 17, 2019

Garage Queen, Kioti clone, tier 3, $5500 to spend on implements,
That would be an easy decision for me.

HawkinsHollow · Feb 17, 2019

Just went and took a look at it. Pretty solid machine. It has 2 rear remotes as well, that is pretty sweet! LOVE the location of the loader controls. So much more natural than out in front of you! They might be dropping it to $11,800 WITH heavy duty bush hog. Is there anything to be scared about with this machine sitting for a year and a half with little to no use? There was a small puddle of oil under the from left axle, right were it goes into the wheel, what could that be? You Bobcat boys might have a new club member!

winston1 · Feb 18, 2019

There is an oil seal out there. Could be that but clean up and inspection would be in order. Removal of the axle case is required to replace that seal.

madhouse · Feb 18, 2019

I wouldn't hesitate to jump on the used machine with money left for implements.

In addition to the telescoping 3pt, sway bars and mat that Amvcane mentioned - I believe the whole assembly is heavier built. Bounce your full weight on the step and compare the flex between the machines. Do the same with the fenders. The Bobcat seats are of better quality. Admittedly, I haven't looked at a Branson in 5 years - but I can't imagine they have improved in the beefieness category.