used bobcat track

Used Bobcat Track Guide

If you’re shopping for a used Bobcat track loader, this guide will help you assess options, understand key considerations, and make smarter decisions. Whether you’re upgrading your fleet or buying for the first time, knowing what to focus on saves money and maximizes uptime.

1. Establish Your Requirements

Start with a clear scope:
– Application: Excavation, demolition, landscaping, snow removal, etc., each place different demands on the undercarriage and hydraulics.
– Terrain: Hard surfaces wear rubber tracks quickly, so determine if steel tracks or physical track protections are needed.
– Capacity: Match the loader’s rated operating capacity to the loads you expect; undersized machines stress systems and require more maintenance.

Documenting the work environment and workload helps avoid overpaying for unnecessary features or underestimating required specs.

2. Inspect the Machine Thoroughly

Used loaders can look decent from afar. Dig deeper:
– Tracks and Undercarriage: Check for even wear, missing lugs, torn pads, and track tension. Look for bent rollers or cracked idlers—replacing a full undercarriage is expensive.
– Hydraulic System: Watch for oil leaks at hoses, cylinders, and pump interfaces. A clean, consistent hydraulic smell and dry fittings are good signs.
– Engine and Cooling: Check coolant level, look for soot or diesel exhaust buildup, and listen for knocking noises. A thorough compression test (if feasible) improves confidence.
– Bucket and Attachments: Check teeth, pins, and bushings for wear. Uneven wear indicates misalignment or neglected maintenance.

Bring a checklist and, if possible, test the loader under load. Operational feel often reveals issues before paperwork does.

3. Review Service History

A well-documented history proves reliability:
– Request records for oil changes, hydraulic service, track replacements, and repairs.
– Verify service intervals match manufacturer recommendations (Bobcat typically advises 250-hour oil changes for undercarriage lubrication).
– Trace any major repairs to determine whether the machine was sourced from a single operator or a rental fleet (rentals often have high hours but decent maintenance).

High hours alone aren’t disqualifying if recent components (engine, hydraulic pump, tracks) were refreshed.

4. Evaluate Cost vs. Remaining Life

Understand the total cost of ownership:
– Factor in remaining track life; replacing rubber tracks can run thousands.
– Estimate upcoming maintenance: belts, filters, hydraulic fluid, seals.
– Compare the asking price with similar machines listed nearby. Tools like equipment-trader websites or auction results help benchmark.

Sometimes paying a premium for low hours and a fresh undercarriage is cheaper in the long run than a “bargain” unit requiring immediate refurbishment.

5. Validate Serial Number and Ownership

Cross-check the machine serial number (MSN):
– Use Bobcat’s dealer portal or manuals to confirm the model/year match the MSN and that the machine isn’t reported stolen.
– Confirm the seller’s ownership and ensure there are no outstanding liens.

Legitimate sellers provide clear documents; avoid deals where paperwork is missing or inconsistent.

Summary

Buying a used Bobcat track loader responsibly means balancing price with condition and future expenses. Prioritize the undercarriage, inspect hydraulics and engine, review maintenance history, and verify ownership. Taking the time to evaluate each aspect reduces surprises and keeps your projects productive.