used bobcat e85 for sale

Used Bobcat E85 For Sale – What to Know

If you’re in the market for a reliable, compact excavator without paying full price, a used Bobcat E85 can be a smart solution. This model blends the rugged durability Bobcat is known for with a zero-tail swing design, making it ideal for tight jobsites. Here’s what buyers should focus on when evaluating used units.

Why the E85 Still Works Hard

The E85 is powered by a 55-hp Tier 4 final diesel engine with a cooling system tuned for heavy-duty cycles. This means even older machines can deliver dependable digging and lifting performance as long as maintenance has been respected. Its 8.5-ton operating weight gives it enough mass for stability but not so much that transport becomes a hassle.

Key features that remain relevant include:
– Zero tail swing for working near obstacles without clearance worries.
– Two-speed travel and standard auxiliary hydraulics suited for attachments like hammers, grapples, or tiltrotators.
– Comfortable cab options (or canopy on simpler builds) to keep operators productive on long shifts.

Those features haven’t aged, so when reviewing listings, confirm whether the unit still has functional lights, controls, and instrumentation—it points to thoughtful upkeep.

Evaluating a Used Unit

Not all used E85s are equally prepared for another lifecycle. Here’s how to assess them:
1. Hours and history – Compare the hour meter to the machine’s age. Expect around 2,000–3,000 hours for a mid-life example; beyond that, verify any major component work.
2. Hydraulic condition – Inspect cylinders, hoses, and fittings for leaks or fresh paint/patches that might conceal poor repairs.
3. Undercarriage wear – Track tensioners, rollers, and sprockets should have life left. Excessive wear hints at rough usage or delayed service.
4. Attachments and extras – Check if the sale includes buckets, quick couplers, or thumb/grapple options—these add immediate versatility.

Request a maintenance log if available, especially for oil, filter, and hydraulic service. A machine with documented service intervals is easier to trust.

Pricing Expectations

Used E85 prices vary with region, condition, and included extras. Ballpark figures for a well-maintained E85 hover between $45,000 and $70,000, depending on year and hour count. Machines with attachments, air-conditioned cabs, or recent major components may command a premium.

Always compare similar listings and factor in transport costs. If you’re buying from an auction or private seller, also consider inspection reports or hiring a technician to perform a pre-purchase walkthrough.

Buying from Dealers vs. Private Sellers

• Dealers often offer certified pre-owned programs, limited warranties, and financing. That may justify a slightly higher price.
• Private sellers can be cheaper, but you’ll take on more risk. Insist on seeing the excavator run, inspect it thoroughly, and review any existing service records.

Regardless of source, confirm the machine’s VIN (serial number) and verify that it matches ownership and title paperwork. A clean records trail protects you from lien or registration headaches.

Conclusion

A used Bobcat E85 remains a capable workhorse when chosen carefully. Focus on hydraulic integrity, undercarriage life, and service documentation. Compare prices across comparable units, and always validate paperwork before closing. With diligence, you can secure a dependable excavator that delivers strong performance across landscaping, utility, or construction applications.