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Message: <blockquote data-quote="JakeK" data-source="post: 119182" data-attributes="member: 20791"><p>I've owned John Deere, Thomas, Caterpillar and multiple Bobcats from 1980's to my current 2016. They all have pros and cons. if It's a short term machine to push around some dirt, gravel and basic landscaping and sell again then a basic machine isn't a big deal however a quick attach is something you shouldn't do without. if you plan on a longer term machine then get one with auxiliary hydraulics. When buying any used machine you need to test drive it till all systems are up to operating temps and then give it a little work. Lift full buckets, push some decent piles and make sure all the functions operate smooth, evenly and don't lack power. Watch you joints and look for play in pins. A used machine will have some but shouldn't bounce around. periodically look at the exhaust as it's warming up and at full operating temperature and what colour is coming out of the exhaust when it's being worked. Black under load is normal. Blue exhaust indicates oil burning, white coolant - either of these just walk away. once you're done your test drive look everything over again and check for any signs of leakage. main thing is to find a machine that feels comfortable to you, operates correctly and meets your price range.</p></blockquote><p></p>