I thought I would respond, as I just purchased a Melroe model M500 also. I got a pretty good deal on it.I like mine so far; it seems to have decent power for its size. I had to replace the seals in one of the lift cylinders, and then it blew the variable speed drive belt so that is the next thing I have to tackle. It worked great until that happened. It seems like older models such as the M500 still receive dealer support- I was able to order basic maintenance parts for it from the dealer. I purchased the operator/parts manual on E-bay; the service manual for it came with the machine I purchased but is also available on E-Bay. You will want both, as the service manual does not have the detailed parts list or some of the minor maintenance/adjustment procedures. I would highly suggest purchasing one that has ROPS, or at least make sure you can get one aftermarket. Some of those earlier models do not come with them. The specs for this model are at the following link: Link You may also want to read the history/evolution of the Bobcat models, as the M500 model was at the turning point of the line"s evolution. Link Good luck-
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