Compact (mini) excavator, 3.5-ton class
Bobcat E35: specs & used buying guide
Last reviewed . We review this page periodically for accuracy.
Quick answer
The Bobcat E35 is a popular 3.5-ton-class compact excavator, commonly configured with a 24.8 hp engine (a ~33 hp option exists). Dig depth and weight vary by arm: roughly 10.1 ft with the standard arm up to about 12.8 ft with the extendable arm. Because the E35 spans variants, confirm the exact configuration.
Key facts
- Machine type: 3.5-ton-class compact excavator
- 'E35' is a family across generations/variants — not one machine
- Engine: commonly 24.8 hp; a ~33 hp option exists on some configurations
- Maximum dig depth: ~121.2 in (std arm), ~133 in (long arm), ~153.2 in (extendable arm)
- Operating weight (24.8 hp): ~7,659 lb std arm, more with long/extendable arms
Overview
The Bobcat E35 is one of the most common compact excavators in the 3.5-ton class, valued for its balance of dig performance, transportability, and Bobcat dealer support. Its popularity means plenty of used units — and plenty of variation in configuration.
Engine and arm options materially change the specs: dig depth and operating weight differ between standard, long, and extendable arms, and there is more than one engine configuration. Treat the E35 as a family and confirm the exact variant.
Key specifications
| Machine type | Compact excavator (3.5-ton class) |
|---|---|
| Engine power | Commonly 24.8 hpA ~33 hp option exists on some configurations. |
| Maximum dig depth | ~121.2 in (std arm) / 133 in (long arm) / 153.2 in (extendable arm) |
| Operating weight (24.8 hp) | ~7,659 lb (std arm)~8,362 lb (long arm), ~8,590 lb (extendable arm). |
"Bobcat E35" refers to a 3.5-ton-class family that has spanned multiple generations and variants (including different arm options and engine choices), not a single machine. The figures below reflect commonly published E35 specifications; confirm the exact variant, arm, and generation of the specific unit.
Figures reflect commonly published E35 specifications for the 24.8 hp configuration and vary by arm option, engine choice, and generation. Confirm the exact variant against the specific unit's spec sheet and data plate.
Common applications
- Utility and drainage trenching
- Residential and landscaping excavation
- Footings and small foundations
- Grading and site work
- Attachment work (thumb, auger, breaker) when equipped
Strengths
- Very common and well-supported on the used market
- Arm options (standard/long/extendable) for different reach and depth
- Good balance of size and capability
- Strong Bobcat parts and dealer network
What to check on a used one
- Confirm the exact variant — arm and engine options change specs
- Undercarriage wear on tracks, rollers, and sprockets
- Hydraulic leaks and weak functions
- Confirm auxiliary hydraulics for attachments
How hours affect value
Weigh hours against service history and undercarriage condition. The E35's popularity means many units, so hold out for one with documented maintenance and sound wear items rather than the cheapest available.
Inspection checklist
- Undercarriage: track, roller, idler, and sprocket wear
- Hydraulics: leaks and strong, smooth function on all circuits
- Boom, arm, and bucket pins and bushings for slop
- Extendable-arm mechanism if fitted
- Auxiliary hydraulics if fitted
- Cold-start, smoke, and hour meter vs records
Maintenance & records to ask for
- Confirm engine and hydraulic service intervals
- Check undercarriage service history
- Ask about any major hydraulic repairs
Attachments & transport
Confirm the coupler type and auxiliary hydraulics for thumbs, augers, and breakers you plan to run.
In the 3.5-ton class (roughly 7,700–8,600 lb depending on arm), the E35 transports readily on a suitable trailer — confirm the exact weight for the variant.
Questions to ask the seller
- Which arm (standard, long, extendable) and engine configuration is this?
- Does it have auxiliary hydraulics and a thumb or other attachments?
- Are there service and undercarriage records?
- Can I dig with it and cycle every function under load?
Comparable models
- Kubota U35
Tight/zero-tail-swing 3.5-ton alternative for confined work.
- John Deere 35G
3.5-ton-class alternative.
- Kubota KX040-4
Larger 4-ton machine with more dig depth.
Head-to-head comparisons
Side-by-side spec comparisons with the models buyers cross-shop most.
Frequently asked questions
Related buying guides
Sources & verification
Specifications on this page were triangulated against the publishers below and reviewed on the date shown. Figures vary by configuration and model year — always confirm the exact specs on the spec sheet and data plate of the specific unit.
- Bobcat — official product specificationsE35 engine options, maximum dig depth by arm, and operating weight by arm
- RitchieSpecs equipment specification databaseIndependent cross-check of operating weight, rated operating capacity, and engine power across configurations
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