bobcat 743?

ldw208 · Nov 23, 2014

Sorry if this is posted in wrong forum. Bobcat 743 coming up at a consignment sale in a couple of weeks. I don't know much about skidloaders, but one would sure be handy. This one has a material bucket and about 1800 hrs. What would be a good price? Are these good machines? What to look out for? Being as it's at a consignment, I probably won't get much history of the machine. We're in southern MN. Thanks....

JD Seller · Nov 23, 2014

A Bobcat 743 is a great smaller skid steer. I think they where only rated at 1300 lbs. 4 cy. Kubota motor. If the hours are truly correct then it is low houred. It could easily bring over $10K. Even higher houred ones are bringing $7500 or more.

I have owned a Bobcat 743. I bought it new in the mid 1980s. I put over 12000 hours on it before I traded it off. Never had many issue with it.

Check the boom. They are many times cracked or broken by guys over loading it. Round bales being carried high will really stress the boom.

JMS/.MN · Nov 23, 2014

I shy away from engined equipment at consignment auctions- usually a reason why they"re being unloaded. If it"s part of a farmer"s line being consigned, that may be a different story. Since you"re in So MN give Tim Cox a call at Farm-Rite Equipment in Dassel, largest Bobcat dealer around. Hundreds to pick from.

Spudm · Nov 23, 2014

Nice little machine, I own a Bobcat 543B. The machines with a short wheel base can be "tipsy" if overloaded or abused. Respect it's limits and capabilities if you buy one, use common sense, and read the owners manual. Other than that, you will like it, especially with all the attachments that are available for them. Good luck!

Lou from Wi. · Nov 24, 2014

If they will let you test drive it, check the levers that operate the forward and reverse, listen for growls or sluggish motor engagement,and if it pulls to one side, sometimes just adjustment, other time could be a sign of weak motor, check the axles for leaks,usually the seals,but could be axles worn a groove in them necessitating teardown and have axles rewelded and turned by machinist. Check for cracks on loader arms top,bottom and sides. Check also where the bucket quick tach is for cracks and extreme wear where the locking pins set. On the latter it will only take time and a welder to fix,but will affect the price. As for the engine I have no idea about diesel engines so I will not give any info on them. Don't forget to check the cooling area (radiator and oil cooler for leaks or bad repairs). Just my 2 cents worth. We have a 722 but back when we bought ours used it was extremely cheap by todays standards. Hope this helps.
LOU

bobcat 743?

ldw208

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JD Seller

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JMS/.MN

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Spudm

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Lou from Wi.

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