10 Models Provide Options to Best Match Jobsite Conditions
In 1999, Bobcat Co. introduced the company’s compact track loader line, calling it the industry’s first American-made compact track loader with a solid-mounted undercarriage. Today’s Bobcat compact track loader lineup includes 10 models — from the 56-in.-wide T450 to the 100-hp T870 — with radial- and vertical-lift-path configurations. On the large end, the T870 has a lift height of 12 ft, making it the highest lifting compact track loader in the industry, says Bobcat.
New for 2016, Bobcat introduced the 74-hp T595 compact track loader — the most powerful model in the Bobcat 500 frame-size loader class. The T595 features increased horsepower and performance for pushing and digging applications, without the need for operators to move up to a bigger machine. With a 2,200-lb rated operating capacity and improved lift force, the T595 compact track loader from Bobcat can help increase jobsite productivity, plus it can move or carry more material with an attachment to increase jobsite efficiency. At 68 in. wide with a standard construction/industrial bucket, the loader’s compact size allows it to work in confined spaces, move confidently within a congested worksite or travel between homes.
A redesigned solid-mount undercarriage — available for models from the T550 through the T770 — delivers six improvements that include increased fuel capacity, easier track undercarriage clean out, better ride quality, improved rear clearance, interchangeable tracks and enhanced ground clearance. The optional Roller Suspension system utilizes an all-steel suspension, which increases durability and provides a smooth ride for operators, says Bobcat.
M-Series compact track loaders are defined by a larger, more comfortable cab, higher hydraulic flows and pressures for better attachment performance and improved uptime protection features. The cab-forward design moves the operator closer to the attachment, and all-around visibility has been significantly improved from inside the pressurized cab. A 2-Speed travel option boosts top travel speed by as much as 57 percent to reduce travel time across jobsites.
The optional deluxe instrument panel helps to minimize downtime, monitor machine performance and improve operator productivity.
Advice to Buyers
“Before moving up to a larger compact track loader, consider models with 74 hp or less. Bobcat offers several models that offer similar performance to the larger horsepower models, but they do not require advanced Tier 4 diesel engine aftertreatment systems such as selective catalytic reduction [SCR] with diesel exhaust fluid [DEF], keeping in mind that all Bobcat compact track loaders meet Tier 4 compliance with a non-DPF solution,” says Eric Dahl, loader product specialist with Bobcat.
