Is $6000 a Fair Price for a Bobcat 743

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat 743 and Its Place in Skid Steer History
The Bobcat 743 was introduced in the early 1980s during a pivotal era for compact equipment. Manufactured by Melroe Company, which later became part of Ingersoll Rand and eventually Doosan, the 743 was one of the first models to feature a liquid-cooled diesel engine—specifically a 35-horsepower Kubota V1702. This marked a shift from earlier air-cooled designs and gave the machine improved reliability in demanding conditions.
With a rated operating capacity of around 1300 lbs and a tipping load of approximately 2600 lbs, the 743 was ideal for landscaping, light construction, and agricultural tasks. Its popularity helped Bobcat solidify its dominance in the skid steer market, which by the late 1980s saw annual sales exceeding 25,000 units globally.
Evaluating the $6000 Price Point
A used Bobcat 743 with 2500 hours, newer tires, and included attachments like a 60-inch bucket and forks might seem reasonably priced at $6000. However, several factors must be considered before calling it a good deal.
Key evaluation points:

• Hour Count: 2500 hours is moderate for a machine of this age. Many 743s have exceeded 5000 hours with proper maintenance.
  
• Attachments: Buckets and forks add utility and resale value. A standalone 60" bucket can cost $500–$800.
  
• Recent Repairs: New tires, battery, alternator, starter, water pump, and hoses suggest proactive maintenance.
  
• Hydraulic Issues: A leaking front cylinder seal and milky hydraulic fluid indicate potential system contamination or neglect.
  

In comparison, similar machines listed as “needing TLC” have sold for $4500 within days, while cleaner units with fewer issues can fetch $7000 or more depending on region and demand.
Hydraulic System Concerns and Fluid Selection
One of the most critical systems in any skid steer is its hydraulics. The Bobcat 743 uses a gear pump system with open-center hydraulics. When seals leak or fluid becomes milky (often due to water ingress), performance suffers.
Terminology note:

• Open-Center Hydraulics: A system where fluid continuously flows through the control valves until a function is activated.
  
• Milky Fluid: Indicates water contamination, which reduces lubrication and can damage pumps and valves.
  

Flushing the system requires more than just operating the machine with a disconnected cylinder. A proper flush involves:

• Disconnecting hoses and draining fluid from all cylinders and reservoirs.
  
• Replacing filters and inspecting for sludge or metal particles.
  
• Refilling with manufacturer-recommended hydraulic fluid. Bobcat no longer endorses engine oil for hydraulics due to changes in oil formulations since the 1980s.
  

Recommended fluid:

• R&O hydraulic oil (Rust and Oxidation inhibited), ISO 46 grade.
  
• Chain case capacity: approximately 10 gallons.
  

Running the machine with low or contaminated fluid risks pump failure, which can cost $1000–$2000 to replace.
Creeping and Linkage Adjustments
Many operators report that older Bobcat 743s tend to “creep” when idling—moving slightly even when controls are neutral. This is often due to worn or misadjusted steering linkages.
Solutions include:

• Inspecting external linkages for wear or misalignment.
  
• Adjusting control rods and centering cams.
  
• Replacing worn bushings or springs.
  

Some parts for early 40-series Bobcats are no longer available and may require retrofitting components from later models. A well-adjusted linkage not only improves control but also enhances safety, especially on slopes or near obstacles.
Boom Repairs and Structural Integrity
The boom on a skid steer is subject to high stress, especially during lifting and digging. Welded repairs are common on older machines, but they must be inspected carefully.
Checklist:

• Look for cracks near pivot points and hydraulic mounts.
  
• Ensure welds are clean, reinforced, and not hiding deeper damage.
  
• Check for alignment issues that could affect bucket operation.
  

A patched boom isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it should be factored into the price and future maintenance planning.
A Story from the Field
In western Pennsylvania, an operator purchased a Bobcat 743 for $5800. It had new tires and a clean engine bay but leaked hydraulic fluid from the front cylinder. After replacing the seals and flushing the system with fresh R&O fluid, the machine performed well—until creeping became noticeable. A weekend spent adjusting the linkage and replacing a worn cam resolved the issue. The machine went on to clear brush and grade driveways for five years before being sold for $4500.
Final Thoughts on Value and Longevity
The Bobcat 743 remains a reliable workhorse when properly maintained. Its simplicity makes it ideal for DIY repairs, and parts are still available through aftermarket suppliers. While $6000 may seem steep for a 40-year-old machine, condition and maintenance history matter more than age alone.
Tips for buyers:

• Always inspect hydraulic fluid and boom welds.
  
• Test for creeping and linkage responsiveness.
  
• Confirm chain case oil level and axle seal integrity.
  
• Factor in attachment value and recent repairs.
  

With care, a Bobcat 743 can deliver thousands more hours of service—proof that good design and solid maintenance can outlast generations of newer machines.