CT225 in and redy to go

[MESSMAKER]

Finally got it in Friday and have not had much chance to use it but at least it is here. I like most everything about it except power. I hope it improves as it breaks in. I love the seat and I am glad I went with the 60" loader bucket. it makes it much easier to see.

 

[gaberelli]

where did you get the toothbar from?

 

[MESSMAKER]

I got it through Bobcat.I assumed it was Bobcat, but I saw a UPS label on it so they may have had it custom made for me. It was part of the deal.





Sorry about the title spelling. I found out earlier that it can not be edited.

 

[CT230 Fan]

How much was the toothbar upgrade, if you don't mind? Or did they just bulk it into the price of the loader? I think that would be a really nice addition to my bucket. I've been doing some dirt work, and I'm finding the packed clay in my neck of the woods to be a real bugger.

 

[MESSMAKER]

I think it ended up costing $300. The retail price was about $560. I do know that you can get one off E-Bay for less than $300. It is not quite as HD, but is custom made to fit.

 

[Dmace]

Nice looking machine! I know once I hit around 100 hours on my CK20, the power difference was definitely noticeable.

 

[Gator6x4]

Could you provide a little more indepth information on "I like most everything about it except power". Is it liking in power when using the FEL or the Rotary Cutter. The reason I ask, the local Bob Cat Dealer is trying to put together a loader-backhoe package on a 230 that would make me have to have the unit. Low on power would be a big concern too me. Other individuals that I have talked too who purchased a Bob Cat Unit have made the same comment about power. The other individuals were unable to provide any information other than it seems like it should have more power, what ever that means.

 

[derekw71]

Gator6x4, I couldnt help but notice your question so I'll try to answer it as best as I can. (even though you didnt ask ME.. ha!) I have one of the larger tractors (ct440) and I too have heard a few talking about the "lack of power" which also concerned me once I read the thier posts. It is true that if you are trying to use your FEL at the same time you are pushing your hydros forward you will see a decrease in both functions. Both are run by hydraulic pressure though so it only makes sense that you would lose a little power to each. Once you get the hang of it though that lack of power will go away. I have had no problem whatsoever getting a full bucket everytime I use the fel and in fact could dig a hole large enough to bury the entire thing using the loader alone without adding teeth onto the bucket. As far as your backhoe goes all of your machines power will be going directly to it as you wont be driving it or using other hydro functions at the same time. I havent noticed the pto robbing much power at all and have mowed down alot of very tall grass, and saplings, and will soon try it out on a tiller to see what that does. All in all I think it will just take some getting used to. 100% happy with mine, but would suggest you tell your salesman to let you try it out. Good luck!

 

[MESSMAKER]

Could you provide a little more indepth information on "I like most everything about it except power". Is it liking in power when using the FEL or the Rotary Cutter. The reason I ask, the local Bob Cat Dealer is trying to put together a loader-backhoe package on a 230 that would make me have to have the unit. Low on power would be a big concern too me. Other individuals that I have talked too who purchased a Bob Cat Unit have made the same comment about power. The other individuals were unable to provide any information other than it seems like it should have more power, what ever that means.

I will have a hard time with specifics as I don't have many. I grew up with a 2000 Ford and a 140 JD as well as an 8n. They all had about the same power as the Bobcat although the 2000 had more weight. I don't remember power being a problem. I don't get the same feeling with the new tractor. It could be that 4wd gives it enough more traction that it is doing more work than I think. I am sure that hi-range behavior does not help. It will nearly come to a halt if you touch the loader control at all, especially if you are on any grade at all. This happened on a hill that my 6 year old daughter can pedal to the top on her bicycle. My neighbors JD 2305 does not suffer in the same way.
I love the features, fit and finish and the ease of operation. I like the tractor ,but would not describe it as a powerhouse.