Buying Advice Bobcat CT230 Without Quick Attach

renegade13 · Nov 24, 2011

Hello,

I'm looking to get a used tractor primarily for snow removal on my acreage. I've found a low hour 2008 Bobcat CT230 with FEL and rear blade for a reasonable price. However, it doesn't have a quick attach system. I figured I would try the rear blade for a season to see how I like it. If I don't like it, I may switch to a front snowblower. Can a blower be attached without a quick attach setup? If not, can the Bobcat be fitted with a quick attach system? If so, approximately how much would it cost?

Thanks in advance for answering all my stupid newbie questions:thumbsup:

Skinnyman · Nov 25, 2011

I can't answer if the front mounted snow blower requires quick attach. However you can add a skid steer QA later. I added mine for about $500 and the attachment plates can be found on Ebay from $70 to $110.

Gittyup · Nov 25, 2011

There is also an option where you buy a frame that uses the rear pto to drive a 3ph type snowblower on the front. In this case the whole loader comes off. This type is most likely going to be a cheaper than a skid steer attach type too.

But, yes you can buy an adapter to weld on your bucket (or a new QA bucket), and a QA connector mount for your loader. I considered it. The quick attach is nice if you actually use it (grapple, forks, etc). I don't have a real need and prefer to keep my maximum lift by not having the QA. I also think the usefulness of the QA is somewhat limted on these relatively light lift loaders. QA becomes much more functional when you can lift 2000+ lbs.

Martian · Nov 25, 2011

Don't let that hold you back. You can get a rear mounted snow blower and save a couple 1000 anyway. I use a rear blade here in Michigan and it works perfectly find. No need to spend +$3000 for something that's not necessary. Also if you need forks you can get ones that screw into the bucket from northern tool for $200

CanuckGT · Nov 25, 2011

I have basically the same tractor (2009 kioti ck30|) that I bought used this spring that came with a rear Bobcat blade and tiller.

Haven't used the blade in winter yet but find the blade very handy for leveling,scraping , even tilted it for some drainage ditches.

Im sure that blade will handle most snow falls around here,if not you still have the front end loader.....heck we may never get snow this winter!!!

renegade13 · Nov 27, 2011

Thanks for the replies. My wife decided she wants to buy new so this thread should be closed. Thanks again for all the responses!!

Dr_Zinj · Nov 28, 2011

I have a CT230 with FEL and rear back blade that I intend to use to clear snow from my 1400 foot long driveway.

Level the loader bucket so it doesn't dig in, and put it in float mode.
Angle the back blade and drop it until it just clears the ground.

I'll see how that works this winter. We didn't get enough snow the beginning of October to actually test it out. Just drove up and down the driveway and the tires cleared it fine.

I've also heard some people sticking a length of pvc pipe on the cutting edges of their loader and back blades for snow removal to keep them from digging into the ground.

Both the National Weather Service and the Farmer's Almanac are in agreement this year. Expect more, wetter, and heavier snow than normal in the Northeast.

Oh, and if you don't have a cab for your tractor, try wearing a poncho draped over the seat back to keep the rain and snow off. Just be careful not to let it get caught in any moving parts or controls.