Clark 720

[Keirsten_moore]

Good afternoon skid steer world ! I just joined the site today in hopes of gaining some knowledge on our bobcat. We have a 1972 Clark 720. Wisconsin gas engine. We did have it running this past winter and it took a crap on its journey back home. Loud bang, lots of backfire, no start now. Unless you have enough starting fluid. My question is, it it worth to keep spending money on this thing or should we sell it to an interested buyer ? And if so, what do you guys think would be a reasonable price ? Thanks in advance for any/all help !!

 

[flyerdan]

It would depend on what condition the rest of the machine was in and the extent of the engine damage. If the machine is tight with no leaks and good tires, it would be worth fixing even if it required sourcing another engine due to a thrown rod, etc. If it's sloppy and marginal, it would be worth fixing if it wasn't too expensive, like a timing issue or a stuck valve. As for what it's worth, depends on overall condition and how bad someone wants it. It would be worth more to someone like me who could use it as a parts machine than to a mouthbreather who will just trailer it to the scrapyard. First thing I would do is take the heads off, that way you can see if all the pistons are connected and moving up and down; also see if the valves are working. If you have one or more pistons not moving then you've got bigger problems and have to make the tough call.