Bobcat CT235 compact tractor

[TheJenners]

I recently acquired this tractor. I can’t find the data plate (neither could the last owner :lol:) so all I know is they made it from 2008-2013, so it’s in that age range. I’ve used it twice in the last two years with no issues but apparently it “keeps quitting.” I just used it a couple months ago to drag the arena, took about an hour, I did think it had maybe been a little surge-y at times but never once did it come close to dying or even jerky…same speed, just a slight change in engine noise.

They had it serviced several times and had fuel filters et al replaced, and state the issues continue, so they bought a new tractor and disclosed the issues with this one when it was offered to me at a deal. At this point it is worth it to sink a couple grand into it to find what’s wrong, but I need to duplicate the issue first or reach out and see if anyone has any experience?? I’m going to feel like an idiot driving it around in circles for a couple hours… but I guess that’s really all I can do? I will call the service place and ask what was done so I don’t duplicate.

Any thoughts on what this might be? I know exactly three things about tractors: I need one, they go blub-blub-blub-blub, you can attach things to them to do different tasks. This comes with with a FEL, box blade, and chain drag. I already tapped tractordata.com for the specs.

[Jim_in_PA]

You might try the “Tractor By Net” forum to further research this. I’ve always found good information there.

[hosspuller]

Sounds fuel related. Diesels go until they don’t. Drain the tank, Check the fuel pick-up for debris or clogging, then fresh fuel. Had one that surged and spit when the tank was half full. Cause was a bad pick up hose and clogged pick-up. When the tank had air space, the bad hose would allow air to be sucked in.

One more check… Seat safety … Does the machine stop when you’re off the seat ? Could be the switch is stopping the machine when on rough ground.

[TheJenners]

Definitely doesn’t because I’ve hopped off to adjust the arena groomer and it kept running.

[SusanO]

I had problems of no power and conking out. Then I read the manual and found the throttle:D. Works great now.

[TheJenners]

Talked to the service place, he stated it “falls on its face,” meaning it loses power, but never dies completely. He stated it was intermittent, and the owners pulled it before he could do more than replace filters, but said he is sure it’s the fuel delivery system somewhere, possibly a clogged hose or even the fuel pump.

I have a friend who works for John Deere as a mechanic who is going to give me lessons on how to use it. I tried lifting the box blade a little bit last night so I’d be able to move it to a more convenient place in order to unattach it and the whole tractor started rocking. I’ll ask him and I’m also going to go sign up for the forum you provided, Jim, thanks :).