Caterpillar 236D3 vs Caterpillar 287B: Which Is the Better Value?

| Based on 41 verified Canadian auction sales

The Caterpillar 236D3 averages $24,648 CAD at auction, compared to $27,750 for the Caterpillar 287B. That's a $3,101 difference. Based on 41 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.

The Verdict

Both machines are competitively priced with only a $3,101 difference. Your decision should come down to brand preference, dealer proximity, and specific feature needs rather than price alone.

Caterpillar 236D3

SSL

$24,648 CAD avg

$11,040

Low

$33,125

High

7

Sales

Avg 5,226 hours · 2019–2020 model years

Full price guide →

Caterpillar 287B

CTL

$27,750 CAD avg

$13,358

Low

$51,476

High

34

Sales

Avg 3,014 hours · 2004–2007 model years

Full price guide →

What are the key differences between 236D3 and 287B?

  • Price: The 236D3 is $3,101 cheaper on average (11% savings).
  • Track Type: 236D3 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL) while 287B is a compact track loader (CTL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
  • Usage: Used 236D3s average 5,226 hours while 287Bs average 3,014 hours.

Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.

Looking for a 236D3 or 287B? Check current listings with Deal Scores.

Which is the better value: 236D3 or 287B?

Choose the Caterpillar 287B if:

  • You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
  • You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability

How do 236D3 and 287B prices compare by year?

Caterpillar 236D3 vs Caterpillar 287B prices by model year (CAD)
Year Caterpillar 236D3 Caterpillar 287B
2020 $25,094 (3)
2019 $24,314 (4)
2007 $19,348 (8)
2006 $33,743 (12)
2005 $25,557 (12)
2004 $38,560 (2)

Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.

How do 236D3 and 287B prices compare by hours?

Caterpillar 236D3 vs Caterpillar 287B prices by hours (CAD)
Hours Caterpillar 236D3 Caterpillar 287B
0-999 hrs $37,198 (6)
2,000-2,999 hrs $28,272 (2) $34,364 (6)
3,000-3,999 hrs $32,614 (6)
4,000+ hrs $23,199 (5) $19,728 (8)

Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.

Where can I buy a 236D3 or 287B in Canada?

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