S70 Bobcat Purchase? Pros & Cons

[Miss the Pontiacs]

I’m looking at a 2010 S70 Bobcat
Looking for potential pros and cons. I believe the following:
The S70 is the current Bobcat model of the smallest unit that has a cage with heater. This unit has only 60 hours on the clock. The reason being is that the fellow purchased it from his rancher uncle when he retired.

He bought the Bobcat for his son who was a electrician. His son ended up getting a electrician job with a large plant out of province. So it has just sat in one of his Dad’s out buildings since purchase. He mentioned he has started it up a couple of times a year.

He is willing also to include with the sell a 60” snow bucket, stock dirt bucket and a Bobcat grapple.

He also for an additional sum a 18’ low profile 7000 GVW steel car hauler.

The reason for a small unit is first for landscaping at our cabin property. Then to be used for snow removal in the winter so we can access the same property in the winter. This unit is capable of handling a rotary snow blower if it is found necessary. But the snow bucket may be adequate for our needs.

If I was to also buy the trailer he will cut a deal on the package. I was looking at a car hauler last year but just got busy with our cabin build. I had preferred aluminium over steel but beggars can’t be choosers.

The seller is a 3 1/2 hr drive one way from my location. I have never owned a Bobcat prior to this but have someone willing to look it over for me. This guy has bought and repaired equipment as a sideline. Mind you he buys basket cases and rebuilds then resells Skid steers and other equipment.

Pros and cons?? Here are a few pics and a video from the seller.

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[The Cobbler]

This is GJ, of course you need it.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

Cobbler. Surprising enough my wife agrees with you. She wants to learn how to use it. I used to have a 1989 S15 4WD. I couldn’t take it anymore and got her sister to school her in the fine arts of a standard transmission.

 

[timmyisme22]

Why are you here? The wife already gave her blessing! Have at it!

 

[The Cobbler]

if your wife is in agreement & telling you to go get it, WTH are you posting on here for? go get it already! LOL

 

[getbent4x4]

Re: S70 Bobcat Purchase? Pros & Cons

18’ low profile 7000 GVW steel car hauler.

google says the bobcat weighs 11.5k lbs. it that trailer two 3500 lb axles or two 7k lb axles? Two 3500 lb axles is just a basic utility trailer and not heavy duty enough (weight and braking) to carry a bobcat.

:Google lied

 

[yatg]

google says the bobcat weighs 11.5k lbs.

An S70 is a measly 3000lbs.

 

[zkdiesel]

google says the bobcat weighs 11.5k lbs. it that trailer two 3500 lb axles or two 7k lb axles? Two 3500 lb axles is just a basic utility trailer and not heavy duty enough (weight and braking) to carry a bobcat.

As stated that’s the smallest bobcat they make! It’s fine on that trailer!


Just check it for rust, specially where cage bolts down in front, looks excellent shape though. Plan on maybe needing chains for snow removal due to the fact it is so light. Usually on the rear axle is enough to get you by, or dedicated snow wolf snow tires.

 

[alcorelli]

Just make sure you have the right hitch for that trailer before you go up there. Bring extra tie downs.
Also, bring some extra cash in case there are other things you need.
Oh, one more thing.....

Hurry.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

 

[B_Bimmer]

That thing is minty.

 

[BD1]

It depends on how you will use it and loader capacity.
Depending on what your landscaping needs are a 4 wheel drive compact loader tractor maybe an option. Bobcats can tear up an area pretty easily and relocate the ground it's working on.
A compact tractor has a variety of implements that may fit your needs.


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[sk farmer]

It depends on how you will use it and loader capacity.
Depending on what your landscaping needs are a 4 wheel drive compact loader tractor maybe an option. Bobcats can tear up an area pretty easily and relocate the ground it's working on.
A compact tractor has a variety of implements that may fit your needs.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

that may be a great machine in great shape but.........


time and time again i have seen people buy a skid steer thinking it will do everything. they do a good job moving material such as dirt, gravel, rock, snow and the like from point a to point b. you can expand your capabilities to some extent with attachment but there is no attachment for a skid steer that is cheap and the line up is still small.

a utility tractor has way more versatility and many more accesory options at a much lower price. most utility tractors will have 3 pt hitch, removable loader, rear pto and mid pto option. none of them are even an option on a skid steer.

skid steer pro- fully enclosed operator station, maneuverability,
visibility of bucket

skid steer cons- difficult to get in and out of, surface disturbance when skidding through a turn. inability to get in or out of machine unless bucket is lowered. high priced and limited variety of attachments.

utility tractor pros- easy to get on and off, 3pt and pto, removable loader bucket and boom can be left in any position when operator is off of the machine.

utility tractor cons- not as maneuverable, not fully enclosed operator station (unless it has a cab)

 

[zkdiesel]

that may be a great machine in great shape but.........


time and time again i have seen people buy a skid steer thinking it will do everything. they do a good job moving material such as dirt, gravel, rock, snow and the like from point a to point b. you can expand your capabilities to some extent with attachment but there is no attachment for a skid steer that is cheap and the line up is still small.

a utility tractor has way more versatility and many more accesory options at a much lower price. most utility tractors will have 3 pt hitch, removable loader, rear pto and mid pto option. none of them are even an option on a skid steer.

skid steer pro- fully enclosed operator station, maneuverability,
visibility of bucket

skid steer cons- difficult to get in and out of, surface disturbance when skidding through a turn. inability to get in or out of machine unless bucket is lowered. high priced and limited variety of attachments.

utility tractor pros- easy to get on and off, 3pt and pto, removable loader bucket and boom can be left in any position when operator is off of the machine.

utility tractor cons- not as maneuverable, not fully enclosed operator station (unless it has a cab)

I own both, large and small utility’s with loaders. Also two full size combo backhoes

for real work of getting something done in a timely manner other than mowing my skidsteers win. Load capacity for size, manuevrabikity and being able to see what you are doing far outweigh the cons. Proper tires for grass and knowing how to drive in that situation a skidsteer that size will make very little
Impact/ destruction.

That skidsteer will womp a compatible utlility tractor for on snow removal any day of the week

 

[Robinson1]

I agree with sk farmer. But would also like to add:

Pound for pound a 3000 pound bobcat will out work a 3000 pound tractor in the dirt. It will push more and lift capacity will be greater. Its also way easier to skim topsoil with a skid loader. Tractor will require you to rip up the dirt with a box blade or sub soiler first.

Depends on what you want to accomplish.

 

[Higgins]

I have a new S70 BC, and we love it! With that said, the 1st and most important question is what are you actually going to use if for?

It's the smallest BC made, and it is great for working in tight places. With it being narrow, you have to really be careful going up and down hills. We use it for moving dirt, gravel, mulch and RR Ties. Although it comes with a large bucket on it, your only going to be able to fill half of the bucket, as the working load as I recall is around 900 lbs. I go for being cautious and look at 700 lbs as being more realistic!
The BIG issue is, with it's smaller footprint, you will tear up grass! So you really have to be gentile! You can improve the handling by upsizing the rims and tires, and it will make aa big difference.
We traded in a 443 which had wider tires and rims and worked out well. So I guess i'm on the hook for around $1,200 for a new set of rims and tires....
Although we have 4 AC, most of the property is really steep, so a BC with tires wouldn't work, tracks would make more sense, however that costs an upcharge of around $7K. So as time goes on. I may either purchase, or make a set of chains for the S70.
The next biggest concern is who in your area supports BC Skid steers, and how far away are you from the BC dealership, in the event you need their assistance.

People down here you to laugh at the little 443, that changed when I showed them that I could take down / push down 6-8 " 30 Ft. pine trees!!

Either machine is a work horse, and can get a lot of work done around your property without you having to lift a shovel.

Cheers....

AL

 

[Daveyclimber]

Very small unit but will work circles around a small utility tractor. I belive these use the same attachments as the walk behind/ride on skid steers from bobcat. I don't think they have the traditional universal quick attach but adapters should be available.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

As stated that’s the smallest bobcat they make! It’s fine on that trailer!
Exactly what I was thinking. A dump trailer might have been a good fit but most of my materials can be delivered. The car hauler will be handy for other vehicles and I will probably add sides and use the stake pockets for the odd time I have to haul anything for a limited distance haul.
Just check it for rust, specially where cage bolts down in front, looks excellent shape though. Plan on maybe needing chains for snow removal due to the fact it is so light. Usually on the rear axle is enough to get you by, or dedicated snow wolf snow tires.

Just make sure you have the right hitch for that trailer before you go up there. Bring extra tie downs.
Also, bring some extra cash in case there are other things you need.
Oh, one more thing.....

Hurry.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

i imagine you mean a pound rated 2 5/16 hitch ball and receiver. I have some 3” web type. Should I be looking at some heavier chain tie downs as well? Extra cash is always a good idea.
I was the one who took out the wanted add and the seller said he will wait. He said it has sat there and if I don’t want it he said he wasn’t in a rush to sell it. Probably a winter thing and it appears he doesn’t need the cash. /COLOR]

Why are you here? The wife already gave her blessing! Have at it!

if your wife is in agreement & telling you to go get it, WTH are you posting on here for? go get it already! LOL

Timmy and Cobbler I just may take your advice on this. This time anyways.

google says the bobcat weighs 11.5k lbs. it that trailer two 3500 lb axles or two 7k lb axles? Two 3500 lb axles is just a basic utility trailer and not heavy duty enough (weight and braking) to carry a bobcat.
:Google lied

You might have accid ntly typed in a third digit in there by accident. This is the baby BC

An S70 is a measly 3000lbs.

Your right this is the baby BC

That thing is minty.

It is amazing if you are able to keep it sheltered and don’t use the damn thing they show up pretty well. Would like to find a 65-67 GTO like that. But definitely probably couldn’t afford it.

It depends on how you will use it and loader capacity.
Depending on what your landscaping needs are a 4 wheel drive compact loader tractor maybe an option. Bobcats can tear up an area pretty easily and relocate the ground it's working on.
A compact tractor has a variety of implements that may fit your needs.
My SIL’s Dad lives fairly close and is a cattleman/rancher and could borrow from him if necessary. This is will be used short term for landscaping and then for snow removal


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

that may be a great machine in great shape but.........


time and time again i have seen people buy a skid steer thinking it will do everything. they do a good job moving material such as dirt, gravel, rock, snow and the like from point a to point b. you can expand your capabilities to some extent with attachment but there is no attachment for a skid steer that is cheap and the line up is still small.

a utility tractor has way more versatility and many more accesory options at a much lower price. most utility tractors will have 3 pt hitch, removable loader, rear pto and mid pto option. none of them are even an option on a skid steer.

skid steer pro- fully enclosed operator station, maneuverability,
visibility of bucket

skid steer cons- difficult to get in and out of, surface disturbance when skidding through a turn. inability to get in or out of machine unless bucket is lowered. high priced and limited variety of attachments.

utility tractor pros- easy to get on and off, 3pt and pto, removable loader bucket and boom can be left in any position when operator is off of the machine.

utility tractor cons- not as maneuverable, not fully enclosed operator station (unless it has a cab)

i think a skid steer is the answer for me. Also easier to store in a garage.

I own both, large and small utility’s with loaders. Also two full size combo backhoes

for real work of getting something done in a timely manner other than mowing my skidsteers win. Load capacity for size, manuevrabikity and being able to see what you are doing far outweigh the cons. Proper tires for grass and knowing how to drive in that situation a skidsteer that size will make very little
Impact/ destruction.

That skidsteer will womp a compatible utlility tractor for on snow removal any day of the week

Thanks exactly what I was thinking.

I agree with sk farmer. But would also like to add:

Pound for pound a 3000 pound bobcat will out work a 3000 pound tractor in the dirt. It will push more and lift capacity will be greater. Its also way easier to skim topsoil with a skid loader. Tractor will require you to rip up the dirt with a box blade or sub soiler first.

Depends on what you want to accomplish.

They are little workhorses. My old cabin demo and new cabin crawl space excavation were completed by a larger tracked BC. Amazed at the work they did and how efficient they can be handled. Have to admit the operator/owner Bill at 75 years old has a pretty proficient operator.

I have a new S70 BC, and we love it! With that said, the 1st and most important question is what are you actually going to use if for?

It's the smallest BC made, and it is great for working in tight places. With it being narrow, you have to really be careful going up and down hills. We use it for moving dirt, gravel, mulch and RR Ties. Although it comes with a large bucket on it, your only going to be able to fill half of the bucket, as the working load as I recall is around 900 lbs. I go for being cautious and look at 700 lbs as being more realistic!
The BIG issue is, with it's smaller footprint, you will tear up grass! So you really have to be gentile! You can improve the handling by upsizing the rims and tires, and it will make aa big difference.
We traded in a 443 which had wider tires and rims and worked out well. So I guess i'm on the hook for around $1,200 for a new set of rims and tires....
Although we have 4 AC, most of the property is really steep, so a BC with tires wouldn't work, tracks would make more sense, however that costs an upcharge of around $7K. So as time goes on. I may either purchase, or make a set of chains for the S70.
The next biggest concern is who in your area supports BC Skid steers, and how far away are you from the BC dealership, in the event you need their assistance.

People down here you to laugh at the little 443, that changed when I showed them that I could take down / push down 6-8 " 30 Ft. pine trees!!

Either machine is a work horse, and can get a lot of work done around your property without you having to lift a shovel.

Cheers....

AL

I missed a 463 that was optioned out pretty well with fairly low hours. That was when I put in a wanted add. An extra 24 hours I may have had it. No steep grades where we are and will be realistic on load capability. A tracked unit would have been great but again the price goes up. I forgot the owner is giving me a set of unused chains with the purchase price. We do have a local dealer so that might come in handy.
Cheers to you as well

Very small unit but will work circles around a small utility tractor. I belive these use the same attachments as the walk behind/ride on skid steers from bobcat. I don't think they have the traditional universal quick attach but adapters should be available.

i had looked at attachments BC listed and for the time being should be fine. A post auger might be handy but we already have a guy at the lake making side cash doing that task. One item maybe a rotary snow blower that could be handy.

Thanks guys for all the input. I’m pretty sure now all I have to do is dig up a can of cash out of the backyard.

 

[finn]

In my experience, a skid steer has way more utility than a tractor, and I have both. The tractor has a front snowblower, and, in general is better in snow than the skid.

Exiting the skid while the bucket is partially raised is not possible if you have a door, but the door is removable. The tractor has a faster road speed, if that factors into your requirements.

Otherwise, the skid is far better for dirt work, maneuverability, and has a far better sight line for fork work.

 

[Higgins]

Spend a few $$$ and add a camera to the BC, then you can see how close to see what is behind you, and see where the bucket is in relation to what your going to pick up!

As a side note, we have a utility attachment that has rods (forks) for picking things up. At times, I use it more than the bucket. Its great for digging up trees / bushes and moving them. Also loosening up dirt, gravel so you can pick it up with the bucket!

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

In my experience, a skid steer has way more utility than a tractor, and I have both. The tractor has a front snowblower, and, in general is better in snow than the skid.

Exiting the skid while the bucket is partially raised is not possible if you have a door, but the door is removable. The tractor has a faster road speed, if that factors into your requirements.

Otherwise, the skid is far better for dirt work, maneuverability, and has a far better sight line for fork work.

Hi Finn. I have never operated a skid steer before. Didn’t realize about the bucket having to be down to access cab. Thinking about it that makes sense. Probably the reason, one I looked at where the door was missing and lost in action. .

Spend a few $$$ and add a camera to the BC, then you can see how close to see what is behind you, and see where the bucket is in relation to what your going to pick up!

As a side note, we have a utility attachment that has rods (forks) for picking things up. At times, I use it more than the bucket. Its great for digging up trees / bushes and moving them. Also loosening up dirt, gravel so you can pick it up with the bucket!

The camera is a great idea. The forks I can see as also being handy. Thanks

Here is a couple seller pics of the trailer.

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[The Cobbler]

check the laws in Sask, in Ontario that trailer along with the towing vehicle would need annual safety inspections , and I believe a CVOR

 

[zkdiesel]

Hi Finn. I have never operated a skid steer before. Didn’t realize about the bucket having to be down to access cab. Thinking about it that makes sense. Probably the reason, one I looked at where the door was missing and lost in action

From experience. A camera in that machine is a total waste. After a day you wil know where your corners are!

As far as doors, some designs(taks, Deere, Kubota have overcome that with top flipping doors)
Remove the door in spring-fall by the two pins and flipping the safety switch, and in winter add it back on, makes machine more versatile in the summer as a shop ***** with forks off ground or bucket in air a foot to shovel stuff out of. Both my machines run no door till winter comes

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

check the laws in Sask, in Ontario that trailer along with the towing vehicle would need annual safety inspections , and I believe a CVOR

ill check but I don’t believe we have safety inspection. I already have one recreational use trailer, a small utility and my company covered trailer. And have not ever been instructed to get a safety check appointment.

From experience. A camera in that machine is a total waste. After a day you wil know where your corners are!

As far as doors, some designs(taks, Deere, Kubota have overcome that with top flipping doors)
Remove the door in spring-fall by the two pins and flipping the safety switch, and in winter add it back on, makes machine more versatile in the summer as a shop ***** with forks off ground or bucket in air a foot to shovel stuff out of. Both my machines run no door till winter comes

Might install one anyway as my daughter and wife want to learn how to operate the BC. It might give them a little more perspective of what is going on around them.
I can see the door coming off in good weather. A friend of mine said to be sure you use the seat belt to stay in the saddle.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

It looks like I’m going to check it out on Friday. Hopefully returning home with both trailer and BC. Seven hours minimum of drive time. Hope roads are ice and snow free. The owner tells me they just had a big storm but should be good on Friday. Here is hoping.

 

[jocww]

get it i have a 443 smallest gen1 with a diesel. i just wish it had more lifting capacity and the newer attachments!!!!!!!! So now Im looking for a s70 or s100

 

[lowbucktruck]

I second what Finn said. You can move alot of dirt with it. Also the maneuverability is excellent with a Bobcat as compared to a tractor. I have experience with both, the Bobcat turns on a dime (good for tight spaces).

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

It fell through the last minute I’m told a 5% tax will be added. It is not a provincial thing but he neglected to mention that one of our taxes were never paid due to the BC was registered with a business. Actually he was refunded the tax at least ax time and has to pass it on to the next owner.
I felt I was paying up to begin with. So won’t be buying this one.

 

[timmyisme22]

Ah well. Hope you didn't need to make the drive there to find that out. Better luck on the next one.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

I’m still looking should be able to find one by April.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

Well I did look around and checked out a few other 463 and S70 Bobcats. Made a few offers and ended up coming to an agreement with the pics I previously posted on the 2010 S70 with 61 hours on it. The trailer is a 2010 18’ Big Tex which was part of the deal which has had minimal use as well. Included was a new set of chains and the teeth for the bucket.
Looking forward on putting it to work.
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[Firebrick43]

Wheeled skid steers, especially the small ones are very hard and slow to do final grading work. They pitch badly and do a terrible job unless your a very skilled operator. Tracked units on the other hand are fairly easy. Tractor with a gannon or a blade with sides and a tail wheel are pretty easy to grade with in comparison.

As far as moving snow, a larger 60 plus skid steer does very well for clearing lots and pads and around buildings. The instant forward and reverse makes for quick work. For a single track thru the woods where you just have to drive, a tractor does much better and faster if its just pushing or blowing to the side. Putting a blower on a skid steer is a very expensive proposition, less so on a tractor.

I have owned a 743 bobcat, operated quite a few case and cat models, and grew up on a farm and would own a 50hp utility tractor any day over a bobcat and rent one the few times I really needed one.

Also if you are thinking about clearing and moving trees and brush with a bobcat make sure you have a forestry rated door and use it. Also put a grapple on it. A limb or even small stick can come over the bucket very quickly and skewer you. It can on a tractor to but at least there you have 4 plus feet between you and the bucket. And always pull logs out before lifting them with a bucket/forks/grapple. People hitting the ends of the logs on a tree and having come back at you is another painful way to die.

 

[a_whale]

<deleted>

 

[Bighead38]

From experience. A camera in that machine is a total waste. After a day you wil know where your corners are!

As far as doors, some designs(taks, Deere, Kubota have overcome that with top flipping doors)
Remove the door in spring-fall by the two pins and flipping the safety switch, and in winter add it back on, makes machine more versatile in the summer as a shop ***** with forks off ground or bucket in air a foot to shovel stuff out of. Both my machines run no door till winter comes

You know where the corners are but a camera is still very useful. It really depends on where the machine is working. I operate equipment for a living and some of the jobs we do are so tight that you need the camera because you have to get within an inch or two without hitting the car/house/tree etc.

 

[sk farmer]

Wheeled skid steers, especially the small ones are very hard and slow to do final grading work. They pitch badly and do a terrible job unless your a very skilled operator. Tracked units on the other hand are fairly easy. Tractor with a gannon or a blade with sides and a tail wheel are pretty easy to grade with in comparison.

As far as moving snow, a larger 60 plus skid steer does very well for clearing lots and pads and around buildings. The instant forward and reverse makes for quick work. For a single track thru the woods where you just have to drive, a tractor does much better and faster if its just pushing or blowing to the side. Putting a blower on a skid steer is a very expensive proposition, less so on a tractor.

I have owned a 743 bobcat, operated quite a few case and cat models, and grew up on a farm and would own a 50hp utility tractor any day over a bobcat and rent one the few times I really needed one.

Also if you are thinking about clearing and moving trees and brush with a bobcat make sure you have a forestry rated door and use it. Also put a grapple on it. A limb or even small stick can come over the bucket very quickly and skewer you. It can on a tractor to but at least there you have 4 plus feet between you and the bucket. And always pull logs out before lifting them with a bucket/forks/grapple. People hitting the ends of the logs on a tree and having come back at you is another painful way to die.

don't bring reason in to this discussion. the answer to every question is a bobcat, unless you know better.

a bobcat is a fabulous machine, they are made just down the road from me. i have been in the factory many times, know many people that work there and and a buddy of mine sells them mfg. items. i stand by my same opinion. there are things that a bobcat can do better but a small tractor is a much more versatile machine and attachments for them are far cheaper. therefore a better fit for most people.

 

[finn]

don't bring reason in to this discussion. the answer to every question is a bobcat, unless you know better.

a bobcat is a fabulous machine, they are made just down the road from me. i have been in the factory many times, know many people that work there and and a buddy of mine sells them mfg. items. i stand by my same opinion. there are things that a bobcat can do better but a small tractor is a much more versatile machine and attachments for them are far cheaper. therefore a better fit for most people.

I have both a small (40 hp) compact tractor and a CTL but had a 50 hp wheeled skid steer previously. The tractor is good for snow removal, but both the wheeled skid steer and the CTL are far more useful to me.

I’m not a farmer, but I would concur that for farm application, where you are tilling the soil, a tractor is preferred.

The tractor is better on the lawn too.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

Tractor with loader would never have been in the cards for a number of reasons. There are plenty around already as the lake is in ranching/farming country.
The S70 stock is only 3’ wide. The upgraded tire makes it slightly wider.
In my area there are plenty of the larger skid steer machines.
While I did buy the machine for my own use, I can pretty well guarantee some non-winter work is available for it as no one else has the smaller skid steer units.
One excavation company already has asked to rent the unit when they have an application.

A camera would likely be handy as we will be operating in tight locations and different operators will have varying levels of operating expertise.

Looking forward to using the existing and future attachments. The grapple should be amazing for tree and refuse removal.

If I have trouble with the smaller S70 pitching i could easily trade for the day for a larger machines or simply rent mine out and hire a larger unit. But first I’ll give it a try before worrying about it now.

 

[The Cobbler]

Nice. I wish you lived closer! LOL

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

Cobbler the BC will definitely come in handy.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

Finally put the S70 to work at last

. Due to the size the S70 is a little light and would spin out in wetter bases. So the bucket was used like a knife. Then scope up the fill. Due to the machine width we’re able to access the backyard. Which is the big advantage with this machine Property owner was tearing out a paving stone patio and are going to enlarge footprint with stamped concrete.
View media item 111842These dump bins are a great advantage. No impatient truck drivers waiting for their loads.
View media item 111841