Thoughts on a new (used) machine for farm use

[Climrox]

Hi All, I'm fairly new to skid steers, and am looking to purchase one for farm use. I would appreciate any well reasoned opinions on the subject. -I'd like to stay under 16kish, and am not in a big hurry to buy. -I think I would like one with 70+ hp. I've tried out my friend's 743, and think on some projects a little added weight and power might be beneficial. -I plan to do most maintenance on my own, and am proficient at most farm tractor repairs and maintenance. However, I have a bobcat dealer near me if needed. -Uses would be driveway maintenance, and general land clearing and maintenance. Farm is 500ish acres, part wooded, part pasture. -I've wondered if a backhoe would be better for my needs, but then again I like the portability if needed for my house. -I've come up with 863s and S300s. What other models should I consider (pre-emissions stuff)? Should I look at other brands? Thank you in advance for your insight.

 

[bobcat743b]

the trick is to find a good one within your price range. bobcat, case, mustangs are all good machines. just depends on how they are used. renting one for a day might help as once you buy it its yours. my biggest complaint about bobcat is there parts. not much after market parts out there and there pretty pricey on there parts. rent a back hoe and see how you like it. its good you are in hurry as the old saying goes haste makes waste. removing trees are easier with a backhoe as you can remove them with a skidsteer but you will have to buy that attachment which is one thing that's bad as those attachments are pretty pricey. as far as a backhoe I would not even look at it unless it had an extended hoe on it especially if you have ponds. case makes awful good back hoes. take your time as you said, do your research on the net of any machine you are thinking on buying, listen careful to the seller and try to determine if he is telling you everything he knows, ask for any paper work he might have, don't be afraid to ask any questions, could make you a list to take with you to help with that I have a small case to use around the barns, house keep drive way leveled out and I also have a backhoe I use elsewhere. good luck on your new purchase what ever you buy.