used bobcat mt85
Used Bobcat MT85: Reliable Compact Track Loader for Tough Jobs
The used Bobcat MT85 continues to be a dependable choice for contractors, landscapers, and agricultural professionals who need a robust compact track loader without stretching their budgets. Its strong performance, durable build, and versatile attachment ecosystem make it ideal for demanding job sites. This overview highlights what makes the MT85 valuable on the secondary market while guiding buyers toward smart purchasing decisions.
Why Choose a Used MT85?
Bobcat’s MT85 combines the benefits of a compact machine with lift capabilities normally associated with larger loaders. On the used market, it represents a sweet spot: reduced upfront cost but with proven hydraulic power and a stable undercarriage. Many MT85 units still in circulation boast reliable Perkins 1104C-44T engines, rated at around 98 hp, capable of delivering consistent torque for grading, hauling, and attachment work.
What buyers appreciate most is the MT85’s heavy-duty construction. The wide track chassis spreads weight evenly for excellent flotation, letting the machine operate safely on soft ground without sacrificing grip. The cab is designed with visibility and operator comfort in mind, while the loader arms and attachment couplers retain their strength even after thousands of hours— especially if the previous owner maintained the lift chains, pins, and hydraulic cylinders.
Evaluating Used Units
When shopping, place emphasis on service history. Check for regular oil and hydraulic fluid changes—the MT85’s Tier 4 final/Stage IIIB compliant engines respond well to consistent care. Inspect the undercarriage for excessive wear: track pads, rollers, and idlers should still have enough life left to avoid immediate replacement. Also, test all auxiliary hydraulics and electrical systems; a hesitant loader arm or sluggish attachment response can point to pump issues that become costly later.
Review the condition of attachments. Since MT85 owners often swap between buckets, forks, grapples, and trenchers, verify that coupler pins and hydraulic quick-connects aren’t overly worn. Even if the bucket shows cosmetic wear, focus on structural integrity, especially at the cutting edge and welds. It’s also worth confirming that the machine still retains its factory load sensing system—this ensures consistent power delivery across attachments.
Finally, consider hours of use relative to age. A machine with 3,000–4,000 hours but well documented maintenance can be more appealing than a 1,500-hour unit that sat idle or was poorly serviced.
Benefits for Specific Applications
- Landscaping and Groundskeeping: The MT85’s track system prevents damage to turf while allowing operators to work around delicate areas. Add a tilting or grading bucket for finishing touchwork after excavation.
- Construction Sites: For excavation, backfilling, and material handling, the machine’s lift height and breakout force keep pace with most jobs under 8,000 lb. Flexibility with forks or pallet forks makes materials logistics smoother.
- Agricultural Work: Compact track loaders excel in barns, muddy feedlots, and crop prep areas. The MT85’s hydraulic flow supports bale spears, bucket vices, and augers, reducing the need for multiple machines.
Getting the Most Value
To ensure a successful purchase, obtain a hard start check or vibration analysis if available, especially for higher-hour machines. Request a visual inspection or photos of the undercarriage and hydraulic lines, and ask about any recent repairs or part replacements. When possible, buy from certified Bobcat dealers or reputable resellers offering limited warranties or inspection reports—these add confidence and protect your investment.
A used Bobcat MT85 can unlock significant productivity when selected carefully. By focusing on maintenance records, mechanical condition, and attachment compatibility, buyers can acquire a powerful, multi-purpose loader that performs just as well as many newer machines at a fraction of the cost.