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The 2006 Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator is a popular choice for many construction and landscaping professionals due to its compact size, versatility, and impressive performance in tight spaces. As one of Bobcat's most reliable mini excavators, the 335 offers a good balance between power and maneuverability, making it ideal for jobs where a full-sized excavator would be too large. However, when considering the purchase of a used 335 or maintaining one, it's essential to understand its features, common issues, and maintenance needs to ensure optimal performance.
Why Choose the Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator?
The Bobcat 335 is widely appreciated for its compact design and excellent hydraulic performance. Whether used for digging trenches, lifting materials, or grading, the 335 performs well in a variety of tasks. Here are some of the key features that make it a favored option:
Despite its overall reliability, the 2006 Bobcat 335 mini excavator does have some common issues that potential buyers and owners should be aware of. Knowing these potential problems will help ensure that you're prepared for any challenges and can take preventive measures.
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping the Bobcat 335 running smoothly and preventing costly repairs. Here are some key maintenance tips:
A contractor shared their experience with the Bobcat 335 after using it for several large residential landscaping projects. Initially, the machine performed well, but after about 2,500 operating hours, they began to notice that the hydraulic system was slowing down, particularly when lifting heavy materials. After replacing a few worn hoses and changing the hydraulic fluid, the machine’s performance was restored.
They also had to replace the tracks and undercarriage at around 3,000 hours, but they found that regular cleaning and lubrication helped keep the machine running smoothly. Despite these maintenance challenges, the contractor praised the 335 for its reliability and ability to work in tight spaces, making it a solid investment for their business.
Conclusion: Is the 2006 Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator Right for You?
The 2006 Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator is a durable and versatile machine that can handle a wide range of tasks, from digging to material handling. However, like all used equipment, it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly related to the hydraulic system, undercarriage wear, and electrical issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help ensure that your 335 continues to perform well for years to come.
When considering a used Bobcat 335, be sure to thoroughly inspect the machine for signs of wear, especially the undercarriage and hydraulic system. Additionally, keeping up with routine maintenance will help prevent common issues and extend the life of the equipment. If well-maintained, the 335 can be a reliable workhorse for construction, landscaping, and other industries requiring a compact and efficient excavator.
Why Choose the Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator?
The Bobcat 335 is widely appreciated for its compact design and excellent hydraulic performance. Whether used for digging trenches, lifting materials, or grading, the 335 performs well in a variety of tasks. Here are some of the key features that make it a favored option:
- Compact and Maneuverable: With its narrow width and compact build, the 335 can operate in areas where larger excavators would struggle. It is highly maneuverable, making it ideal for urban construction sites or smaller projects where space is limited.
- Hydraulic Power: The 335 is equipped with a powerful hydraulic system that allows it to dig, lift, and move materials with ease. It also features a strong digging force, making it capable of handling tough soil conditions.
- Versatility: The excavator can be equipped with a variety of attachments such as buckets, augers, and breakers. This versatility makes it an essential tool for a wide range of jobs, including landscaping, utility work, and small-scale construction.
- Comfortable Operator’s Cabin: The cabin is designed to provide comfort for the operator, with easy-to-use controls and good visibility. This can help increase productivity, especially during long hours of operation.
Despite its overall reliability, the 2006 Bobcat 335 mini excavator does have some common issues that potential buyers and owners should be aware of. Knowing these potential problems will help ensure that you're prepared for any challenges and can take preventive measures.
- Hydraulic System Issues:
- One of the most common concerns reported by owners is issues with the hydraulic system. These issues can manifest as slow bucket movement, loss of hydraulic power, or leaking hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic pump, valves, or hoses can wear out over time, particularly if the machine has been used extensively.
- Tip: Regularly check hydraulic fluid levels and inspect hoses for leaks. It’s also essential to replace filters and fluid as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure the system functions optimally.
- One of the most common concerns reported by owners is issues with the hydraulic system. These issues can manifest as slow bucket movement, loss of hydraulic power, or leaking hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic pump, valves, or hoses can wear out over time, particularly if the machine has been used extensively.
- Undercarriage Wear:
- As with many mini excavators, the undercarriage is subject to wear and tear due to constant movement and pressure. The Bobcat 335 is no exception, and the tracks, rollers, and sprockets may need to be replaced after extended use.
- Real-World Example: An owner of a Bobcat 335 shared their experience where the undercarriage had to be replaced at around 3,000 operating hours, as the tracks showed significant wear. Keeping track of the undercarriage condition is critical, as replacing these components can be costly.
- Tip: Regular inspection and cleaning of the tracks can help extend their lifespan. Look for uneven wear, cracks, or debris that could damage the components.
- As with many mini excavators, the undercarriage is subject to wear and tear due to constant movement and pressure. The Bobcat 335 is no exception, and the tracks, rollers, and sprockets may need to be replaced after extended use.
- Electrical Problems:
- Electrical issues are relatively common in older models, and the Bobcat 335 is no exception. Problems such as faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning sensors can sometimes cause the machine to fail to start or operate erratically.
- Tip: Ensure that the battery is in good condition, and periodically inspect the electrical connections for corrosion or wear. Regular maintenance of electrical systems can prevent sudden malfunctions.
- Electrical issues are relatively common in older models, and the Bobcat 335 is no exception. Problems such as faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning sensors can sometimes cause the machine to fail to start or operate erratically.
- Engine and Cooling System:
- Like many older machines, the engine of the Bobcat 335 may experience problems related to overheating or excessive fuel consumption. The cooling system, including the radiator, can also become clogged or damaged over time.
- Tip: Check the radiator for blockages and ensure that the coolant is at the correct level. Regular cleaning of the cooling system will help maintain proper engine temperature.
- Like many older machines, the engine of the Bobcat 335 may experience problems related to overheating or excessive fuel consumption. The cooling system, including the radiator, can also become clogged or damaged over time.
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping the Bobcat 335 running smoothly and preventing costly repairs. Here are some key maintenance tips:
- Engine and Hydraulic Oil Changes:
- Just like any heavy machinery, the engine and hydraulic oil should be changed at regular intervals. This helps to ensure the longevity of the engine and hydraulics, as old or contaminated oil can cause excessive wear or damage.
- Pro Tip: Always use high-quality oils and fluids that meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Using the wrong oil can lead to poor performance and more frequent breakdowns.
- Just like any heavy machinery, the engine and hydraulic oil should be changed at regular intervals. This helps to ensure the longevity of the engine and hydraulics, as old or contaminated oil can cause excessive wear or damage.
- Track and Undercarriage Care:
- Regular inspection and maintenance of the tracks are essential. Clean the undercarriage to remove dirt, rocks, and other debris that can cause wear. If you notice uneven wear, consider having the tracks adjusted or replaced to prevent further damage.
- Tip: Some operators recommend using a grease gun to lubricate the rollers and other moving parts regularly. This can help to reduce friction and wear.
- Regular inspection and maintenance of the tracks are essential. Clean the undercarriage to remove dirt, rocks, and other debris that can cause wear. If you notice uneven wear, consider having the tracks adjusted or replaced to prevent further damage.
- Inspect Hydraulic System:
- Check for any signs of leaks, especially around the hydraulic cylinders, hoses, and pumps. Leaking hydraulic fluid can be a sign of damaged seals or hoses, and can result in a drop in hydraulic performance.
- Tip: Clean the machine regularly to prevent dirt and debris from entering the hydraulic system. This will help extend the life of hydraulic components and improve system efficiency.
- Check for any signs of leaks, especially around the hydraulic cylinders, hoses, and pumps. Leaking hydraulic fluid can be a sign of damaged seals or hoses, and can result in a drop in hydraulic performance.
- Electrical System Maintenance:
- Inspect the battery, alternator, and wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion. Replace any worn-out cables and check fuses regularly.
- Pro Tip: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage and ensure that the charging system is working properly.
- Inspect the battery, alternator, and wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion. Replace any worn-out cables and check fuses regularly.
A contractor shared their experience with the Bobcat 335 after using it for several large residential landscaping projects. Initially, the machine performed well, but after about 2,500 operating hours, they began to notice that the hydraulic system was slowing down, particularly when lifting heavy materials. After replacing a few worn hoses and changing the hydraulic fluid, the machine’s performance was restored.
They also had to replace the tracks and undercarriage at around 3,000 hours, but they found that regular cleaning and lubrication helped keep the machine running smoothly. Despite these maintenance challenges, the contractor praised the 335 for its reliability and ability to work in tight spaces, making it a solid investment for their business.
Conclusion: Is the 2006 Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator Right for You?
The 2006 Bobcat 335 Mini Excavator is a durable and versatile machine that can handle a wide range of tasks, from digging to material handling. However, like all used equipment, it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly related to the hydraulic system, undercarriage wear, and electrical issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help ensure that your 335 continues to perform well for years to come.
When considering a used Bobcat 335, be sure to thoroughly inspect the machine for signs of wear, especially the undercarriage and hydraulic system. Additionally, keeping up with routine maintenance will help prevent common issues and extend the life of the equipment. If well-maintained, the 335 can be a reliable workhorse for construction, landscaping, and other industries requiring a compact and efficient excavator.
