Bobcat T66. My honest review as a contractor.

[@PJ-sh2mi]

I actually am a test engineer at Bobcat and I am always looking for videos like this. I love to see what real customers are saying about the equipment I’m testing everyday. As far as your question about when the backup camera comes on, yes it is adjustable. Under the cab there is a roller switch that is mounted to your “sticks”. There are two screws you can loosen and adjust the switch as needed.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Nice, just the guy we’re looking for! I’ll deff get under there and see if I can get it adjusted. In the mean time, when will the flip up door retro fit kit be out for this machine? And could you possibly make that a recall option? Haha

[@crazypeaches1]

Did they fix the pivot pins on the bucket ?

[@akdoug6437]

Please, Mr. Test engineer. Get rid of the pull down safety bar. I run own an equipment rental company and had to go away from Bobcat because my fat customers far prefer the safety bars in our other CTL's.

[@madtater5948]

@@akdoug6437 glad to see you're always looking out for us fat guys

[@adamgustofson9010]

@@akdoug6437 well they actually made the damn safety bar narrower and tighter. our old s300 safety bar is wider and is more comfortable for a fat kid

[@timbradeen8459]

I'm a owner operator and have ran bobcats for the last 30 years. This is a good review. Bobcat I feel is starting to cut corners. As much as these machines cost they need to be bullet proof.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

100% agree

[@LDeezy662]

Literally every company in America has gotten that way too. Greed will be the thing that takes them all down because it has gotten out of control. I mean a new car payment now would have been a house payment not even 20 years ago

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I agree, Corparate greed using cheaper materials and lesser warranty’s will be the death of them all.

[@timbradeen8459]

@Burns Earthworks I'm a bobcat guy all the way. Im trying to decide do I buu that new T76 for nearly 100k or not. I think I'm going to give it another year to iron out the bugs in the wiring. I do believe Bobcat is a good solid company. They need to remember what machines got them to where they are today though.

[@yousifmohamed4770]

Dude great review. I thought you were a huge KZbinr just based on the quality of the video. You deserve some more credit, it will come be grateful for what you have. New subscriber

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thanks for the support!

[@brucejensen3533]

Agreed

[@danielwade4009]

“I bet you never seen someone put their whole foot in a skid steer before.” 😂😂

[@BuiltbyBurns]

update: went outside and checked, foot still fits.

[@HardKnocks101]

Just picked up my 2022 today. Wish I wouldva watched this before driving 600 miles (one way) to get my new (148 hour) machine…. Great video. Thanks for your time and effort

[@cn.trainbuff3352]

I’m a bobcat salesman, I don’t sit behind a desk…. Lol. I’m out in front of the customers just about everyday. Doing free demos in central Wisconsin. Nice video….. honesty at its best!!!!!! Great video .

[@BuiltbyBurns]

don't take my comment personally, my salesman Tim did a fantastic job I felt with me, but there were other salesman that i felt may have been more helpful filling the vending machine to put it nicely.

[@billslocum1223]

My salesman voted for biden.told them to give me a different one

[@mattstickel2512]

Long live the hand foot controls!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Amen brother! I love seeing peoples reactions when they see it!

[@jethroshanks1420]

Your knees must be good mate not working it hard enough lol

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

I will never buy one now after listening to this review. Once they address these issues , I will . Great review . Just bought the ditch witch stand on , monster of a machine . Looking for a cab skid now . Will hold off on the bobcat for now

[@josiasmorales8664]

Love this review. Very honest and straight forward. Had a couple laughs too at your comments. A review with a sense of humor!

[@kmiley2444]

Great review! as a bobcat dealership technician it’s great to here these kinds of reviews so us techs can help relay this information to engineering, thank you! For your back up camera: the camera activates once the computer detects two switches on the handle linkage are engaged (left side and right side), these two switches are adjustable and very easy to adjust so that you don’t have to pull back very far on both sticks for the camera to activate.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thank you for the information I’ll get right on adjusting that.

[@kmiley2444]

@@BuiltbyBurns no problem, once the cab is in the air the two switches are easy to spot on the linkage, they are identical and I believe the wire color for the switches is blue.

[@tomstepnick3693]

Why do techs need to see these reviews? Every knock the video points out was true 50 years ago when they started building these machines. Nothing has changed, nothing new was pointed out that any common sense wouldn't tell you by just looking at the machine, yet all skid steers like this are dysfunctional machines. If just one manufacturer would build a machine for the operator and not the "engineers" who never actually used a machine (or ever actually worked a day in their life before college) they would not have any of these issues and put eventually put the rest out of business or confirm.

[@tommybarnhart6023]

One of the funniest best reviews I've watched. @Bobcat you need to float guys like this some $ or at least complimentary time in your machines for real average operator reviews/input.

[@DieselRamcharger]

That makes them salesmen. Do you want honesty or advertisement under contract? Corporations dont just GIVE anything away. They want a pound of flesh for it. Its far better to retain your own value and NOT be a sell out.

[@fanningconstruction2050]

Haha I just tapped a planter with my weights and took a little chip out of it. Haha.. I was going to get a 21 bobcat, but took a 19 instead because of of the door, rear lights and a couple other little things... but I absolutely love my t595. Yes the bobcat emblem is awesome! Bobcats are aggressive kitty's, so it fits the machine well. Edit... I enjoy my pilot controls over sticks anyday.

[@themountainraven]

Seat heater, hydraulic level glass location, and that door...basically the only real gripes....other than that excellent review. Thanks.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

🤙

[@tractorguy]

Great Review. I've had a S250 for years on our farm and run lots of neighbors numerous brands of machines and they all have their weakness's and strong points. What I've come to notice is my Bobcat rarely has any mechanical issues compared to the neighbors machines. I have around 3600 hours on it and it doesn"t use or leak any motor or hydraulic oil. Out of all the equipment on our farm, (and there's a lot of it) the Bobcat is my most reliable machine, and it gets used the hardest of any of the equipment. Just a FYI on the hydraulic oil fill tube design. I agree it sucks. I complained to my dealer about it too and he sold me a lid with a built in clear hose that screws onto my hydraulic oil 2.5 gallon jug so adding oil is a piece of cake now. I also use the same lid on my John deere and Kubota 2.5 gal jugs and it works perfect. I think the lid was $10 and worth every penny.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Awesome I’ll have to find one of those lids. Thanks for the info!

[@DieselRamcharger]

funny my bobcat has 3500 hours and every seal bushing and pin has been replaced twice already.....

[@JasSinghGrewal]

Great review from actual user. Valuable for someone looking to buy. Keep it up

[@BuiltbyBurns]

That was my whole intention of this video. thank you

[@fanningconstruction2050]

Also open your door and glow your plugs while your outside the loader.. You can take that code setting off when your running your machine often and use your door key. Put on your key chain.

[@outdoorswithlarryrobin]

Picked A Bobcat left over 2019 T650, and Love it 500 hrs on it and no issues, yes the front door sucks for sure. Just Subscribed, Great honest review, Take Care and Stay Safe 🚜🪵👍🏼🇺🇸

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I was actually looking for a t650 but was having a really hard time comming across one. That’s why I went with the t66, although I like my r series I have to say I think I would be more at home in the t650. 👍

[@timothyyoder1731]

That’s an Awesome Review!! First time I think I really watched an honest review! And I usually hate watching reviews but I loved this one!! Keep the videos coming!!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thank you for the support. Like I said in the video I had a hard time finding a honest review out there about these new machines. Even though I talked a lot about what I hated about this machine it still meets all my needs.

[@wymershandymanservice9965]

I owned Bobcats for years. But when all the companies started adding doors that actually interfere with the safe operation of these units I went with Volvo and the side door option. Liked it immensely. Have since replaced the Volvo with a JCB which is basically the same as the Volvo. Nothing against Bobcat or the other units but I seen a skid steer roll over driver trapped inside the cab for a considerable amount of time because door was in a position that didn’t allow it to open. In my 40 years of skid steer work I’ve never upset one but on the chance one of my operators or I did the thought of being trapped helped me make my decision. Enjoyed your content. 👍 🇺🇸🦅🌏⚓️🇺🇸

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thank you for the comment. How you like that jcb. I looked real hard at them.

[@callummcleod6362]

That's why they have the quick release inside for the glass

[@ryanmcknight4580]

Awesome down to earth review. Great job!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Much appreciated!

[@SuperdutySupermanFjb]

I have a brand new Bobcat s570 and that door issue is very annoying. But overall my machine has every bell and whistle and having air conditioning and heater and a radio and hydraulic quick attach for quick bucket change my bobcat is a dream and does any job easy and fast and can lift 2000 lbs. I love Bobcat!!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I stand by my machine, I still love this bobcat.

[@SuperdutySupermanFjb]

@@BuiltbyBurns The best thing about bobcat is they have great service and repair for all of their machines.

[@stedder8436]

There are grease fittings on the quick attack on the sides that grease the quick attach pins. Changing attachments is always easier if you keep those greased

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Probably the #1 fitting people forget to grease!

[@gregparker5461]

Great review!!! Thank you! I’m glad to see another Dinosaur operator. I have ran one since ‘98. I thought I would have to go with joystick and learn to run all over again. One thing I seen on the dealer lot was inside the track and under carriage I could see drive line/lines. If cleaning out mud don’t get it the #4 rocks will. I don’t want to, even though I bring it home ever night, I don’t want to deal with pressure washer and the sludge aftermath. Back in the day when they had machines on the lot with both old and new model side by side behind the track clearance is lower. Many times of the year I feel I need a periscope. Thanks for your honest review and was entertaining

[@BuiltbyBurns]

thank you for the support, some say honestly is the road to poverty but that's just the way I was raised.

[@billywray4524]

i bought a brand new r-66 and gave it back to them. i am 71 years old and have run bobcats over 40 years and have never given a machine back to them. The main reason was that they went to electronic hydraulics and dumped the linkage hydraulics. grading is a nightmare with this r-series. They also put these huge foot controls in it if you run foot controls like i do. i even tried pilot controls and the hydraulics were still a nightmare. you never know what you will get when you try and run the pedals. The last thing is they removed 6" off the back to make it easier to get to thos hydraulic lines and the tracks throw all the dirt over the side of the machine. Terrible machine and i owned 4 t-190's that imo was the best track macine they ever made.They are still making the 450 and 595 with the linkage hydraulics which i got instead. the only think i liked about the 66 was the motoe had a bit more power than my t-590 and uses a bit less fuel. I have no idea why bobcat did not test the r-series before putting it into production. i feel sorry for anyone that buys this machine unless there is a way to go back to linkage hydraulics.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Although I completely understand where your comming from with the sensitivity of the controls. I’ve found that the more I operate the Machine the more I find myself getting proficient in using it. Just like everything else in life it just takes a bit of practice.

[@tlk50970]

Good review. Hopefully you’ve realized you can start it without waiting for the computer to boot up and put in your code. You can turn on A/C and use bobtach without putting in the code. The loud noise from the interior computer is so annoying. Having the door not able to open is my other big complaint. Other than those couple things, it’s a great machine.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

How do you start your machine without putting the code in? I’ve had no such luck finding that feature.

[@brandonthies9590]

after running these vs the JD skids i prefer to run the JD's now. they just feel more polished overall. the joysticks feel much more natural, personal preference i know xD. anything beats a shovel though.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Jd makes a good machine these days that’s for sure. My only problem with them is in my area they seem to be way over priced compared to the other machines at this hp level. Could be the dealer I’m not sure I only priced one. But after I got my quote I quickly moved on to the next brand.

[@brandonthies9590]

@@BuiltbyBurns thats understandable lol, i think a new 317g with options here is around 54k, and a 325g is around 65k. i never got an official quote but thats what others have told me. i drive a 317g for work (we lease all our machines) and its a great little grading machine for 61 hp.

[@Elswick17]

@@BuiltbyBurns what were you quoted? I got a loaded 325g for 57 a few months ago. So far, my favorite machine.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

@@Elswick17 I got my t66 for 53k out the door. When I told jd what bobcat offered me they told me they couldent even come close to that number. So I moved on. I’m extremely happy with my purchase regardless.

[@Kashaww]

They could’ve just made the back door way heavier and those guards thicker and ditched the counterweights. Those kind of seem like something that was added because the rear end wasn’t heavy enough in the first place.

[@RockhillfarmYT]

Good review. I feel like my Deere 325G is easier to access and service but there are some things I see on your machine that are nicer as well

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thank you buddy, it’s nice to hear that from a viewer with a larger following. I’m a big fan of the JD’s. I’m just a bigger fan of bobcat.

[@thewhiteknight02]

We got a 2021 New Holland c327. Super nice. 10” iPad looking screen and all the time camera.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Make a video 👍

[@davestinson5691]

Omg we have a 76. An God help it rides soooo ruff. Other than that, small seat,an tiny step I like it. Man i so agree w a lot of what u said here. Esp the phone falling out part. 289d is my fav

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Ive never been a big CAT guy myself, not sure why I just don't like them as much as other brand machines.

[@alexhughes2401]

Good review, I do find that some of these things are operator perspective. You can lift the arms for easier access to certain things. And being an operator myself we don’t have issues with our quality of metal because we are going around and hitting things on our sites we slow it down a notch and all our equipment is in great shape. I see way to many guys going balls out hitting things and like you said profit is gone. All around great review as we are looking at getting T66 to compete with our Deere 325

[@iGROD305]

Finally a video coming from a user not sales man!!!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

dang right buddy!

[@shadow6958]

Top-notch commentary.... amazing review man love to hear all the bad!

[@jakeruchti1]

Probably the best review ive ever seen hope you do more 😂😂

[@jamesgang94591]

To clean your floor you have a 3x6 rubber grommet you can pop out and hose out the floor.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

thanks I didn't see those in there!

[@FreeBladez]

The issues you addressed make me so much happier I went with a SVL-75. Although bobcat has been doing for so long doesn’t mean they’re doing it right.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

im not going to argue that Kubota has features that I like more than bobcat, but the experience I had with them ( Kubota) when I was searching for a machine was lets say not so good. I've never met a salesman that didn't want to sell a machine before like this guy. so it put a bad taste in my mouth. when I bought my bobcat the salesman Brought it to my shop and dropped it off before I even did any paperwork. not to mention they are half the distance to a local dealer for me compared to Kubota and I also have the field mechanics personal number. bobcat just did me right on price and treated me like family. that meant a lot to me when purchasing such a expensive piece of Equipment. so ill sacrifice a few features for a better dealer experience, because I don't care what anybody says, these machines will require servicing at some point I don't care what the brand is.

[@FreeBladez]

@@BuiltbyBurns that’s fair. The same experience you mentioned happened to me with the kubota. So I totally get the dealer experience. They’re machines eventually they all break

[@BuiltbyBurns]

@@FreeBladez I own a kubota L3901 tractor and a zd1211 72 in diesel mower. So I’m a big fan of kubota, but unfortunately this dealer does not sell heavy equipment or they may have had a sale!

[@jwbbud]

Right I’m glad I went with the Takeuchi tl12

[@dirtmoney8740]

@@FreeBladez same thing happened to me, I walked out of the establishment at how bad sales was.

[@sthdz2932]

I have a 2023 t76 and the fixed most of those little problems!

[@Dc-hj5ns]

Caterpillar door is the damn same! Drives me nuts!!!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

you would think they would come up with something better by now!

[@bohenderson811]

It is but you could always take it off.

[@bobbyp641]

We have the same machine we got all hand controls and love it (small construction company) but it’s awesome.

[@chevyforddodge4x4]

Nice Bobcat ! The guys down at fairview heights il. have always been very nice to me and great getting parts for my 463 Bobcat !!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

They been treating our family business good for years👍

[@ThriftyGarage]

Door design on the T66 is better than on the T650. You can actually open up the door when the bucket is up a few inches. But on the T650 if the bucket was even slightly curled downward you couldn't open the door.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I donno man, I’ve ran a t770 quite a bit and I don’t really feel like either one of them designs are worth a shit honestly.

[@MrJeroenskie]

I work as a mechanic at a bobcat dealer. And we get a lot of same questions like youre comments🤣

[@BuiltbyBurns]

so when's the flip up door coming out?

[@Olliegunns]

Good review, I agree, more actual users should do reviews of kit. Plenty do it with cars why not machines, Ive done a few videos on the kit I run myself for the same reason. You've gained another subscriber, keep it up

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thanks buddy. I’ll check out your videos as well. 🍻

[@justinswanson5655]

Yup... that phone holder is annoying. I have a T76 and the only way to keep my phone in there is to spread the elastic straps so it holds my phone in with half of it hanging out. My other complaint is under the cab there is a piece of angle iron for the battery holder that sticks up and the cab bangs on it when tracking on concrete and it's annoying to me so I had to put some rubber between it and the cab. Problem solved. Overall I LOVE the machine!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

my door recently started rattling more than usual. I think the latch is out alignment. its driving me crazy also. overall though im more than happy with this machine.

[@MrNeutross]

From watching Andrew Camarata, it feels like Bobcat is the home owner brand of skid steers

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I love Andrew camarata's channel, he's one of my favorite you tubers. Bobcat is very widely used in the construction industry. But they do make a good machine to be used around the farm or homestead.

[@MrNeutross]

@@BuiltbyBurns he's among my favorites too. Really wish I can buy som property soon and start collecting machinery. Saw a good deal on a Case cx50 but it's kinda hard to park it in my apartment 😅

[@BuiltbyBurns]

@@MrNeutross it takes time and hard work. but that being said there's nothing more satisfying then looking around after awhile and seeing what all you have accomplished and collected.

[@digginforalivin2930]

As I’m watching your video when you press the ignition button, no shit my dog turned his head it was that loud, damn bobcat let everyone know your about to fire that baby up😂😂😂

[@BuiltbyBurns]

It’s louder than the radio!

[@cat637d]

Great video, just subscribed, I hope you continue with project videos!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thanks for the sub! I’ve got a ton of footage that needs edited and uploaded. Stick around there’s a lot more to come.

[@cat637d]

@@BuiltbyBurns 👍

[@pjs5191]

Just found your channel today. Nice video with some very strong points. Interested to see it in the dirt working!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I have a bunch of footage that just needs edited and uploaded. Stay tuned.

[@elmarty4803]

I really appreciate the honest review!

[@blackdogexcavator21]

Great review. To answer your question about the horsepower of the Takeuchi, the TL8 is 74 hp. Comparable machines except the TL8 is heavier I think. Mine weighs 9180 lbs with the tooth bucket on it. BTW, I bought the TL8 because of the roll up door.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thanks, I do wish I had a different door option. It’s quite annoying and I have to plan ahead if I’m going to be getting out of the machine. I always liked the Takeuchi. But due to “COVID” there’s hardly any available for purchase around here.

[@batterpm11]

My TL8 is a tank, and rides like one too. But that door, love that door.

[@blackdogexcavator21]

@@batterpm11 I agree. The sliding door on the TL8 was the deciding factor for me. I love Bobcat machines but I couldn't deal with the swinging door on it. I do love the ol Coochie though.

[@batterpm11]

@@blackdogexcavator21 I ran my buddies t740 the other day, sometimes I think some of those little luxury things would be nice. But I’m the same love the take a coochie

[@BuiltbyBurns]

@@batterpm11 any issues with the tracks comming off on your machine? We have two tl12 at a job site and we have lost tracks on both machines multiple times. Ones new ones older. It’s kind of concerning.

[@chivalry4505]

Lol. Great video..funny but serious. Man you make the engineers job easy..I’m not even an engineer and could of redesigned and fabricated all your suggestions just off of your info in a day or two, even the battery location you mentioned I think is a good idea and probably is doable.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I think engineers should have to do min one year of operating and one year of field mechanics before they are allowed to design a machine. Regardless of how good they would be at it, they would atleast get to see what does and does not work in the field like it does on paper. I guarantee you if you had the engineer replace that hydraulic sight glass in the mud on a job site he would design a fix for it by the weekend!

[@LimBo3500]

Maybe battery lifetime is longer if it is not in the extremity of the back, where it will bounce around a lot more than in the CoG under the driver. Not everything is "space/accessibility" related in engineering decisions, unfortunately.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Skidsteers have had the battery in the rear since the early 90s. Across all manufacturers. Takeuchi makes a sweet access panel in the rear just for the battery. I’m thinking doosan just dropped the ball on this one.

[@dandiaz9752]

Bobcat is so awesome I use their 2018 7 series their doors suck I usually take them off but I love them in general. That and mud in the floorboards is a killer. The older one the site glass is way up. But the fill is way on the top of motor under cowl

[@trentmoore6596]

I agree. We took our door off. Not ideal but so much easier to get in and out.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I find myself doing the same thing on some jobs. Bobcat needs to address the issue.

[@avenheavner108]

Beast video and thanks for making it brother!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Thanks dude. 🍻

[@robertspencer2402]

I've been wanting to run one of these. I work at a sod farm, I have for 10+ years, I'm a foreman on one of the crews, there's a few crews, I'm also the main mechanic, & since we're seasonal, I stay on all year to service equipment, which there's alot of, but we run 8 or 9 bobcat t590's, bought all new, & I used to like them but my main complaint is the main drive hoses that run to each drive hub, & the stupid drive belt setup. They work perfect until 1000 plus hours. Then the belt & pulley comes off, usually brakes the bolt. & We run 2 per crew, one to haul in pallets of sod on jobs, & one constantly runs a 5 & 6ft Rockhound cage, & it doesn't help the drive hoses, it's constant break downs with lines, & belts, & other things. We've been with bobcat for years, but it's unbelievable that when they reach 4000 hours they seem to fall apart. & It's rough on me being a foreman, plus fixing them. Don't get me wrong I love bobcat, but when you've got 2 down, waiting on parts one in the shop, you fix 2 drive hoses on one, & 2 more blow it gets old, we check fluids, grease daily, sometimes twice a day, there very well taken care off. We've tried case, Kubota, cat, & few others. I love the cat for the simple fact of serviceability, & visibility. & I tilted the cab & everything's so easy to get to, on bobcat, changing a drive hose, it's almost impossible to do without popping the track off. We grade new construction, new homes, pretty tight spots, & the visibility was great. But we just got in a t66 we're gonna demo & I'm anxious to see how it is compared to the t590's & the cat.

[@DieselRamcharger]

Bobcats are just junk. They are rental machines. Made to last 1500 hour and no more. They are also owned by a Chinese Company now. Doosan.

[@justjacked8189]

Wicked video. The battery is the most common thing stolen out of our mahcines. I wish it was under the seat lol.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I never even thought about that being a issue. Could be they reason the moved it. 🤙

[@dclelectric7003]

Great review... for me man the door is a deal breaker. Sometimes i work alone and i lift a truss or something and need to get out. I will not buy any brand with this kind of door...

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I completely agree. The door design is complete garbage.

[@spudslandscaping4149]

My dad was driving a bobcat and the engine quit and he could get out because the arms were up a bit. He had to wait for us to get the machine running to get out, we were very close to breaking the window to get him out.

[@dgb5820]

Great review

[@BuiltbyBurns]

thanks for the support!

[@rontopping2048]

Grammer designed the seat , shipped to bobcat with heat option and switch on back of seat

[@cameronward7137]

I’m glad I didn’t go with bobcat now. You’re right.. it’s all about the little stuff that only the operator has to deal with.

[@tonyyates2012]

Them giving you a good deal when you purchase, usually they'll take your britches on replacement parts and servicing.

[@Summitoutdoorproductions]

Good stuff. And funny guy. Thanks bud. In market for a TL and bobcat is one I’m looking at. Dave

[@BuiltbyBurns]

🤙

[@ronsblack]

Hello I am on buying market, I need a advice Bobcat T770 or Takeuchi tl12 Which one you will recommend? Thanks

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Both are excellent proven machines. I’ve ran both quite a bit. For starters. I feel the bobcat is a bit easier to maintain due to the engine configuration, it also seems to have a more fancy cab if that’s your thing. The downside would probably be the door design if you plan on getting in and out a lot with the arms up a bit. Now the Takeuchi tl12 is a beast also, a bit less creature comforts in the cab as they take a more rugged approach, and the engine layout is a little bit harder to maintain compared to the bobcat. But that being said it’s a skidsteer. They all suck when it comes to being able to work on. Every manufacture out there crams all the can into a little steel frame. The door design on the Takeuchi although better in my opinion than bobcats is also alot heavier and I think rattles alot after some hrs on it. So it really comes down to a few little details if you ask me. The bobcat is more of a luxury model compared to the Takeuchi, but the Takeuchi in my mind is more of a rugged machine with less to worry about. As far as power I have not ran across anything either one of them can’t handle they are both large machines. The tl12 might even have a little more grunt than the bobcat actually. Hope this helps. If it were me, I’m leaning towards tl12. Not sure why, I may feel different about it tomorrow. Good luck.

[@ronsblack]

Thank you very much, I really appreciate it Maybe I should sleep with this and tomorrow I’ll know what to do

[@JT-qf4it]

Thanks for your review. Sounds like you bought a Bobcat based on emotional ties to Dealer. I looked at all the brands befor I purchased my Kubota 75-2. The Bobcat had too many negative issues for me. You are showing a lot of them. I have over 800 hrs. on my Kubota so far and have had zero issues so far. I am looking hard at the JCB Teleskid right now. Like the side door and telescoping boom. And no emissions due to them being rated at 74 HP.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Every brand machine is going to have issues that’s the nature of the game, that being said I would rather have a good relationship with my dealer. I actually went to my local kubota dealer to seriously look into buying their machine. But unfortunately I must have been an inconvience to them the day I was there and turned me away, therefore I crossed them off the list of potential purchases. Now I’m not saying every dealer is like that because I know they are not. Kubota dealers are not anywhere close to me therefore having a breakdown could be financially troubling for my small one Man show of a Busniess. So to answer your statement yes, I went with the dealer that provided me with more than just a machine. This is a Chevy vs Ford vs dodge argument. They all have flaws. I just picked the one that worked best for me.

[@JT-qf4it]

@@BuiltbyBurns Dealer support is very important. That support is not there for me. Since buying my Kubota, the salesman nor the Dealership has contacted me to find out if I had issues. This has been over two years of ownership. Last week I sent a contact email to them asking about the new SVL97-2. No response. Don't blame you for buying Bobcat.

[@claytonswick1521]

@@JT-qf4it my grandfather just got a 97 as well as the new 65 after having a 95-2 and 75-2. 97 is basically the same machine as the 95 and I’d only get a 65 if you needed a machine that small. Says it’s rated at 68 hp but I’ve put the better part of the 115 hours on it and I’m not real impressed with it.

[@claytonswick1521]

But if you ever ran a 95 and liked it then you’d like the 97. Been running Kubotas for 3-4 years now and I can’t recall any serious breakdowns.

[@pilotmatt293]

The Teleskid is a great machine. Holler at me if you’re interested in one and I can get you taken care of!

[@premierlandworkspremierlan538]

Have the same door issue with newer case models. Want to rip the GD door off at times

[@BuiltbyBurns]

only way to fix the issue is if enough people complain about it I guess.

[@grantbetts6564]

I'm a tow truck operator and I deliver alot of these to job sites. I have got to run them as well. I think there under power. Trying to pick up dirt and moving it, it lags down and you gotta slow down moving to regain power. It's kinda annoying

[@ktmsxstud]

All of that power lag goes away once the tracks loosen up and break in or if you loosen them up they come way too tight from the factory That's where all the power goes when they are brand new

[@BuiltbyBurns]

May be somthing with your machine mine seems to have plenty of power. Only time it bogs is when I push it to the limit.

[@brendankertz7877]

I work at ERB off Gravois in Fenton. Curious if you gave us a chance? After watching your review I feel like you’ve would have been happy with the deer as well. Great review, please give Erb a chance at a Mimi excavator when you need one. 👍🏻

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Shoot me an email at my business email [e-mail]. I’m in the market for a 30 ish hp machine, cab or no cab. With thumb. Thanks

[@DirtdoctoRN]

Great review. Actually looking at buying one of these with joysticks. Got it priced @ $66k. Running a S550 now. Where are you out of?

[@BuiltbyBurns]

This machine was picked up through a Missouri dealer.

[@davideparise]

Man this video's awesome, I came across it and just ended up watching it😂

[@BuiltbyBurns]

thanks for the support buddy, cheers

[@tobiasaidanbarnes526]

Great review my cat 299d3 has no storage space in it at all

[@BuiltbyBurns]

honestly not having a place to store things may keep it clean and organized. could be a benefit!

[@tobiasaidanbarnes526]

@@BuiltbyBurns my floor is full of wrenches and I have to hold my lunchbox with my legs

[@BuiltbyBurns]

@@tobiasaidanbarnes526 living in that thing my dude? lol

[@BuiltbyBurns]

@@tobiasaidanbarnes526 I learned a long time ago that rule number one was never separate yourself from your lunchbox.

[@DustyWhite-ty2vp]

Great content 😂😂 I’m looking into buying one myself

[@markhall3434]

Same Door issue with the ASV RT40.. BUT... Pretty Easy to take it off. Flip Up sounds like THE answer.

[@dickgoodey2528]

THE answer is JCB

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I tried the jcb, I have mixed feelings. although that telescoping boom is an absolute game changer I will say!

[@brandywine1548]

Should have got a tl10v2. I grew up on bobcats, 753, 773, 873. They would lift more than the machine would support but with a good operator could make it work. Newer bobcats like the s850 don’t compare to the older machines that are well kept. Just like most companies the have the reputation but now down scaling quality and power

[@BuiltbyBurns]

honestly I feel every company and brand machine out there is getting a little cheap on the quality side of things. sure feels like your hard earned dollar don't go very far when purchasing a new machine that's for sure.

[@daronsmith2229]

Glad to know it’s not just me on the worthless stickers. Ripped a third of them off on my first power wash. COME ON!!!!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Pisses me off every time I wash it.

[@iw3508]

For my bobcat t66 the headphone jack/ usb port area is not inserted in the cab very well to the point were sometimes ill get in and it just fell out and I gotta push it back into its spot. not my favorite thing,

[@justthings6405]

Hi, Maybe i missed a segment but what is your opinion on the 7 Pin Controller For Bobcat Loaders from Skidsteer Genious? I saw your review under their product page and that is how I came to your video...I am looking to control my 12v snowblower swivel chute with the factory bobcat cab stick controls..Thanks and I will await your knowledge on this controller..

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Hey buddy I’ve bought a few things from these guys in the past, can you do me a favor? Shoot me a link in the comments on what review you seen so I can narrow down exactly what it is your wanting to know about. Once I see it I’ll have a better idea on what direction to point you in. Thanks.

[@rightgrade]

I just wished that they would have sealed the inside a little better, it collects so much dirt and if you leave that dirt in there and you get a good rain you've got a lake in the bottom of your pan because of that dirt clogged all your drain ports so you have to clean that up before it rains or your battery's underwater you have a lot of sloshing going around underneath there other than that I think the sight glass for the hydraulic is bad and the dadgum door seal.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I have not really had that big of an issue with the dirt, although I service mine pretty much daily. I have a little old when it comes to my equipment some would say lol.

[@alanward3400]

271 Hours on my T-66 and the engine is blown. Mine has ate at least 5 gallons of anti-freeze since I bought it. I think there is a LOT more to these having disappearing anti-freeze that they are saying. We'll see if Bobcat stands behind it or not.

[@dandiaz9752]

The old style window pulls break in cold weather

[@BuiltbyBurns]

yes they do. hopefully you've never had to use it though.

[@Ben_SC]

I use a t66 with flight controls alot and my biggest pet peeve with that machine is when it screams at you when you start I absolutely hate it and I wish it had rear view mirror like other skid steers iv used and this is kinda minor but the speaker in that machine is horrible but pretty much everything he hated In the vid I hated before I even saw this video and door is so annoying I run into that problem every single time

[@Andrewstephensonn]

Bobcat has been around for ever but you have to remember that bobcat is just a name that over the years has traded hands so a lot of people think there great based on the ingresoll rand machines or other companies that produced bobcats but these new machines are Doosans, not saying there bad but they aren’t all the same

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Doosan is not living up to the bobcat name in my opinion. These things are not built like they use to be. I guess all good things must come to an end.

[@johnnyboy1543]

I also love air in my ear hole Neature walk. You know how to tell how it’s an aspen, cause it’s the way it is Lol

[@srmcontracting]

The comment "It's like 900 dollars a gallon" had me dying!

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Facts.

[@thergamalbassas67]

i stg when i try to open the door and the bucket is a high and i need to load somthing on to my truck the door wont open i need a second person so i took it off

[@BuiltbyBurns]

one of the most annoying things about the machine honestly!

[@crazypeaches1]

Why did they make it so you have to open the cab to replace them battery? Impossible to do in a short ceiling shed in the winter.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

I agree it’s not the best location. Some have said in the comments that they do it to keep battery theft down. I’m not sure of the real reason. Im sure somebody way smarter than me has a reason on here.

[@ianstuart7395]

I hate bobcat doors. Love the machines, but even a brand new one drives me nuts. Other then that Bobcat has always got the job done for me! Good review.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Could not agree more. I’ve ran about every brand out there and although I don’t agree 100% on every design on bobcats machines I still find myself going back to them.

[@rontopping2048]

What years doors dont you like ? Been solid up until 2019 on all m series

[@Amlandscaping413]

I hate the flip up door used to have a Deere 240 and used to have to balance it on my head to get out and vibrated like crazy

[@KMAD2828]

If you’re getting one to use for a homestead/some land clearing would you get this (T66, T76, or JCB TELESKID 3TS-8T)

[@BuiltbyBurns]

T76. The 66 would work but having a heavier and stronger machine would be a no brainer. I feel like for land clearing the single telescoping boom design would be a weak point on the jcb. But I have not ran one but a few times to be a good spokesperson for them. My vote goes to t76 if you can foot the bill. Takeuchi tl10/12 would be a great choice also. If found myself really liking their machines.

[@KMAD2828]

@@BuiltbyBurns thank you

[@donaldduncan1374]

Excellently delivered review. You point out so many things about Bobcat that remain the reason I'm not a fan. It does look great and seems kind of comfy inside, but to be paying the same kind of money compared to that other brand, I'm sorry. I hope after 3000 hours you can still have that same devotion. I think Bobcat is for the fan that is enamored of the logo and doesn't know any better. I suppose they have to make it look sexy to sell. I'll give it that. Now I expect to be cancelled.

[@simons7473]

Good review. Why don't Americans use 4 in 1 buckets? Game changer

[@BuiltbyBurns]

There is more running around here than you think, but i personally don't have one. I would be up to trying one out though that's for sure.

[@jakeg1342]

I'm gonna give you a review from a users perspective : goes straight into a pitch for Bobcat the company

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Obviously you only watched the first min of the video where I showed appreciation towards the local dealer for their great customer service. I proceeded to rip the company on many of the “flaws” I felt needed to be address with the machine in the rest of the video. 🍻

[@survivalguyfyi5718]

@@BuiltbyBurns, great review. I especially appreciate you not holding back and pointing out the bad. I'm on the fence too but leaning towards this model. I love Case as well. Was really set on the Kubota because use chains to load and unload welders and stuff. Like you said, being a one man show, the way the Kubota's door opens is huge. What's steering me away is Kubota's loud, dusty, horrible cab. Bobcat now offers a remote control option where you can operate your machine with your cellphone. That pretty much solved my door issue with Bobcat. Now I just have to hit the lotto first. LOL. That is one fine machine you have though. I like the new forged or cast arms they are doing. Looks very beefy and seems to give better viewing area from inside the cab.

[@jakeg1342]

@@BuiltbyBurns I did watch the video. You ripped them for the door hydro fluid indicator engine placement (good and bad). Don't take my comment personally, I found the beginning of the vid ironic

[@tmach58]

So what if a hydraulic line breaks and your bucket is up and it starts on fire are you toast or does it come down automatically if there is no pressure?

[@fadidebs7027]

I’m trying to change the bucket out for fork lift and a grapple bucket. Can you give me hints on what and how to change to different implements

[@mick2798]

I was looking at the Cat 259D3 would you know if this was the comparable model to that? I want to price out a Bobcat too just trying to compare apples to apples

[@BuiltbyBurns]

We have a rental cat 259d3 at work right now and honestly is a pretty nice machine. The cab feels much smaller to me with different blind spots and the hand controls seem touchy, but other than that the power level seem to be about the same as the t66. If I were to buy again I would probably still stick with the bobcat but there’s not really a night and day difference in my eyes they both get the job done.

[@jonothanlangager4000]

1. You can buy a bottle spout from your dealer that screws onto the 2.5 gallon bottles that makes filling fluids much easier. 2. When you lift the cab you can adjust the back up alarm switches to make your camera come on sooner. Just loosen the 1/4 inch screws and slice them closer to the ramps so they contact sooner. 3. There is a new update that is supposed to shorten boot up time for display. 4. There is an updated headliner with slits that makes the speakers much louder. 5. side light kit is the shit -Jon your friendly bobcat dealer tech

[@BuiltbyBurns]

my dude comming in clutch with all the fixes lol. But.... where do I find the flip up door my man? give the people what they want!

[@rontopping2048]

I would not recommend wide tracks without 5 link suspension. 5 link gives you wider stance and over 3 inches between tracks and side of machine. Roll up doors are not the greatest, they rattle, jam and you get stuck in the machine, look at the interior of a kubota, radio is behind you , heat and ac controls are under lap bar , windshield washer bottle behind you head . Major reason why door swings open and not overhead. Takeuchi is actually starting to design machines with swing door. Newest model tl6 .

[@BuiltbyBurns]

yea I get it, but like I said in the video im a one man show so im required to exit the machine from time to time with the bucket raised. The swing out door design does not allow me to do that requiring me to remove it sometimes. From a little research it looks like Takeuchi is using the swing door on the tl6 because the cab is smaller.

[@Ramitnr]

What's up with that side mounted filter right above the engine?

[@MrJohndelay]

Hydraulic filter on the fan motor

[@mikebavoso26]

Before purchasing this bobcat, did you look at the JCB tele skid? it doesn't have any of these problems that you've surveyed.

[@BuiltbyBurns]

Yea I did look at them, I just was not much of a fan honestly, although I think the telescope and side door entry is a great idea, I felt the machine I tested was just not my style. Also honestly I talked to some mechanics who worked on jcb in general and for the most part not many on them had good things to say about any of them. After hearing that I kind of just moved on to my other options. Like I said though I do like some of the features they have.

[@duffs2363]

Lol bobcat always put the radiators up top and had a very thick door now they put one on the door and make it Crappy😅we use bobcats cause they are the best hoping they don’t go backwards