[klaaar]

I'm thinking about buying a 2001 with 1500 hours.

Any of you guys own one? Ever run an auger, clamp, or grapple on it? How much weight will it lift about 4' high?

I need to own a mini ex badly, but can't spend more than $10,000.

[joshuatree]

I have the 320, I think its the same weight except the 322 can expand the tracks? anyway cant lift a tremendous amout of weight very high. still an ultimate digging machine, its on every job site and does the work of two guys, and it doesnt complain.

[warby]

My experience with bobcat is not good. I had a used 331 (2000 model)for around 1 year. I sold it because the hydraulics were very slow. In particular the dipper arm. I took it back to the shop twice, before one of the mechanics told me that there had been a problem with the pump on this model. Further research showed that my pump had been replaced to the upgraded version by the previous owner. This was still unsatisfactory as far I was concerened because it was still awfully slow. I'm not sure if the 322 has the same fault.

If a client was watching me dig a trench (and many do), I would have to pretend I was being careful due to the slow speed, when in actual fact I had full revs and levers pulled as far back as possible. This was also bad for fuel consumption.
I now have a New Holland LS 35. It's quick.


There is a saying I once heard:
for Skid Steer - buy American
for excavator - buy Japanese

New Holland & Case excavators are made by Kobelco (Japanese)

Hope this helps.

One other thing, best not rush. Do a bit of research.

Tom.

[autophil]

If you like the Bobcat 322, you'll love the Takeuchi TB016.