Comparing the Ingersoll Rand 723 and Bobcat 723 Telehandlers for Agricultural Use

[MikePhua]

The Origins and Branding of the 723 Series
The Ingersoll Rand 723 and Bobcat 723 telehandlers are mechanically identical machines produced during the period when Ingersoll Rand owned the Bobcat brand. These units were designed for mid-range lifting and loading tasks, particularly in agricultural and light construction settings. The 723 series featured a compact frame, chain-driven boom, and moderate lift capacity suitable for yard work, material handling, and soft terrain operations.
While the branding differs—some units carry the Ingersoll Rand name, others the Bobcat badge—the core engineering, hydraulic systems, and drivetrain components are the same. The difference in resale value often stems from market perception and brand familiarity rather than mechanical distinction.
Terminology:

• Telehandler: A telescopic handler used for lifting and placing materials, often equipped with forks or buckets
  
• Chain-driven boom: A lifting mechanism using chains rather than hydraulic cylinders for extension
  
• Low boom mount: A design where the boom is mounted lower on the chassis, improving visibility and stability
  

Performance in Soft Ground and Farm Applications
For agricultural users seeking a production loader in soft conditions, the 723 series offers a viable alternative to larger, more expensive machines. Its relatively light footprint and four-wheel drive allow it to operate effectively in muddy or uneven terrain. However, the chain-driven boom is not designed for digging or aggressive breakout force, making it unsuitable for excavation tasks.
Advantages in farm use:

• Compact size for maneuvering around barns and feedlots
  
• Adequate lift height for stacking hay or loading trailers
  
• Simple mechanical layout for in-shop maintenance
  
• Lower purchase price compared to CAT or JCB telehandlers
  

In one Kansas farm, a 723 was used to replace a TH62 telehandler. While the TH62 had served well, its British electrical system and aging components made uptime unpredictable. The 723, though less refined, provided reliable performance for daily chores and required minimal electronic diagnostics.
Resale Value and Market Dynamics
The resale value of the Ingersoll Rand 723 tends to be lower than that of the Bobcat-branded version, despite their mechanical parity. This is largely due to Bobcat’s stronger brand recognition in North America and its established dealer network. For buyers seeking low-hour used machines, this discrepancy can be an advantage—allowing acquisition of a well-equipped unit at a reduced price.
Market observations:

• Bobcat units command 10–15% higher resale on average
  
• Ingersoll Rand models are often discounted due to brand exit from the telehandler market
  
• CAT and Deere telehandlers dominate dealer lots, but may not reflect true market value
  
• Manitou and JCB offer competitive alternatives with European-style features
  

In regions like Alberta and the Midwest, resale is less critical for buyers who perform their own maintenance and plan to keep machines long-term. For these users, initial cost and serviceability outweigh brand prestige.
Serviceability and Parts Availability
Despite Ingersoll Rand’s exit from the telehandler segment, parts for the 723 series remain accessible through Bobcat dealers and aftermarket suppliers. The mechanical simplicity of the machine—combined with shared components across brands—makes it a practical choice for owners who handle repairs in-house.
Service tips:

• Maintain chain tension and inspect boom rollers regularly
  
• Use OEM filters and fluids to extend hydraulic system life
  
• Keep electrical connections clean and protected from moisture
  
• Document part numbers during maintenance for future sourcing
  

One Canadian operator noted that the user manual for his Manitou telehandler covered multiple models, with minimal differences in boom operation and drivetrain layout. This modularity is common across European and North American telehandlers, simplifying training and parts stocking.
Alternative Machines and Regional Preferences
In North America, CAT and Deere telehandlers dominate due to dealer presence and fleet support. However, European brands like Manitou, Merlo, and Dieci offer machines tailored for agricultural use, often with features like transmission disconnect buttons, boom shake functions, and low boom mounts for better visibility.
Comparative features:

• Manitou: Known for smooth boom control and agricultural ergonomics
  
• JCB: Offers high boom mount and low mount variants; built in Georgia for North American market
  
• Merlo: Compact design with advanced cab comfort and visibility
  
• CAT TH series: Transitioned to JLG-manufactured units in later years
  

In Southeast Kansas, where the original discussion took place, most machines are CAT or Deere, but operators have successfully run British-built JCBs and Belgian-sourced CAT THs without issue. The key is access to parts and a willingness to work outside the mainstream.
Conclusion
The Ingersoll Rand 723 and Bobcat 723 telehandlers are functionally identical, offering solid performance for agricultural and yard duties. While resale value may favor the Bobcat name, the IR-branded units present a cost-effective opportunity for buyers who prioritize mechanical reliability over market perception. With proper maintenance and realistic expectations, these machines can serve as dependable workhorses in farm and shop environments. In the world of telehandlers, branding may influence price—but it’s the steel, hydraulics, and uptime that define value.