bobcat 773 used

Bobcat 773 Used: A Smart Choice for Compact Loader Needs

The Bobcat 773 has built a strong reputation as a dependable and efficient skid-steer loader, and choosing a used 773 often delivers excellent value for contractors, landscapers, and facility managers looking to expand capacity without overspending on new equipment.

Proven Performance in a Compact Package

Originally introduced with a 66-horsepower Kubota diesel engine and a rated operating capacity of 1,950 pounds, the 773 balances power and maneuverability. Even in used condition, these loaders remain capable of handling grading, material handling, backfilling, and site cleanup. Their compact footprint (roughly 6.5 feet high and 5.5 feet wide) allows operators to work in tight urban or interior spaces where larger machines can’t go.

Look for units with the common two-speed drive option and deluxe cab for improved comfort, especially if the machine will see long days on dense urban job sites. The hydraulic system with a relief valve and high-flow options keeps attachments responsive—crucial even in later years when attachments like augers, pallet forks, or brush cutters are pushed hard.

Evaluating a Used Bobcat 773

When inspecting a used 773, focus on:

• Hours and maintenance history: A well-documented service log (oil/filter changes, drive chain adjustments) is a strong signal. Expect the engine to still respond crisply if regularly maintained.
• Hydraulics: Look for leaks around hoses, cylinders, and valves. Sharp, predictable loader arm motion usually indicates healthy hydraulics even after heavy use.
• Undercarriage and drive chains: Excessive wear on rollers, sprockets, or chains can hint at future rebuild costs. Ensure the chains sit correctly and the tracks roll smoothly on tracked attachments if equipped.
• Attachments and quick couplers: Check wear on bucket cutting edges, teeth, and coupler pins. Since the 773 is often fitted with quick-tach systems, ensure those components latch tightly and release smoothly.

Advantages of Buying Used

Opting for a used 773 can save tens of thousands of dollars compared to a new machine while still delivering a comparable performance profile. Because Bobcat produced thousands of units, parts remain accessible worldwide—even for early production machines—with OEM filters, belts, and seals readily available from dealers and aftermarket suppliers.

Additionally, the simplicity of the 773’s cab-forward design means diagnostics and repairs are straightforward for mechanics. This reduces downtime and makes it easier for in-house technicians or rental shops to keep machines in service.

Maintenance Tips to Maximize Remaining Life

For any Bobcat 773 in your fleet, preventive maintenance is essential:

• Engine care: Follow a strict oil and filter change cadence every 250 hours, and swap air filters more frequently in dusty conditions.
• Hydraulic fluid: Maintain clean hydraulic fluid and replace the filter every 1,000 hours to protect the loader’s cylinders and motor.
• Cooling system: Flush the radiator annually and inspect hoses for blistering or soft spots; the Kubota engine is resilient, but overheating can cause valve train wear.
• Drive chains/sprockets: Regular lubrication and adjustments prevent premature failure, especially in compact loaders used on abrasive surfaces.

A used Bobcat 773 with these routines in place can reliably operate for another 5,000+ hours.

Final Considerations Before Purchase

Before closing a deal, verify the machine’s title or ownership, especially when buying from auctions or out-of-state dealers. Consider having a trusted mechanic or Bobcat-certified technician perform a pre-purchase inspection to avoid hidden frame damage or major engine work.

If you’re upgrading an existing fleet, compare total cost of ownership—including expected repairs, transport, and attachment compatibility—rather than focusing solely on sticker price.

For many contractors, a used Bobcat 773 represents a well-balanced investment: compact, powerful, and still highly capable when vetted properly and maintained consistently.