Cat 988 wheel loader

S/N 87A1120 in case it matters

Hi, 4LFarm.
They were/are a pretty solid machine, not many bugs at all that I am aware of. I spent some time on a couple of them, earlier versions than this, in 1968-69.

Just my 0.02.

They had the D343 engine which had a good reputation.

If you need a little bit of wheel loader, a lot of wheel loader should do... Go for it.

go big or go home😁, just like a shed, they never are big enough

Very true about sheds : ) You do have to be a bit careful with sizing loaders though because if it's too big for the job, it can be noticeably slower than a smaller loader. For things like unloading log trucks and quarry work, bigger is almost always better but if you're stacking smaller objects like round bales or moving around in small spaces, an oversized loader can be much less efficient than a right-sized loader. If you aren't trying to beat the clock though, that's not an issue. Enjoy!

A 988 and in your price range too.
Hummm is that a question or a statement because that is a no brainier for me? Neil dose make a good argument, all I'd add is those things run on lots of oil and parts are big so it is best if you own a small herd of to keep each other company.
Pictures please.

Hi, Neil.
I might be a ovva smar tass but I once levelled fill for a single vehicle carport and access ramp leading down to a sloping driveway which meant the access ramp changed shape on the way down. What did I do it with? A Cat 990 loader while using a 5-gallon drum as a seat.

Where there's a will, there's often a way.

(NAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Where there's a will, there's a lawsuit.)

Just my 0.02.

one thing to think about is if you don't have solid ground that loader will pound right through. if you get a 988 stuck you'll need something BIGGER to pull it out. but just a simple tire change will cost over 1000 just to get tires to shop out to change a tube or valve stem. a tire will be 5000 +. too big can be hard to get around or fit in a tight spot. if you're going to be in out a lot 988 will have about 5-6 steps up a leader to get in and out of the cab, which could get very old quickly. it all comes down to your needs are you loading gravel or just moving a few hay bails with it. Jpay dirt runs a 988A in his youtube videos might give you an idea of how fast it can rut up soft ground and how one runs. they are not snappy or rompey like new loaders are more of a slow giant