Bobcat Company has introduced the largest compact track loader the company has ever manufactured — the T870 — along with what will be the largest skid loader in its lineup, the S850. The larger new loaders provide operators with more powerful hydraulics, increased fuel capacity, higher lift capacities and reach, increased pushing power and higher horsepower than any of Bobcat’s current loader models. In addition, the loaders will enable the operator to accomplish more work through performance and durability enhancements that provide more power and keep the loader working longer, while increasing operator comfort with a new cab forward design with improved visibility and a more spacious and comfortable cab, according to the manufacturer.
Job-enhancing features also were added to the optional deluxe instrumentation panel features in these machines.
The 10,008 lb. (4,540 kg) S850 has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 3,875 lbs. (1,757 kg) — 17 percent more than the current largest skid loader, the S330. The 12,678 lb. (5,750 kg) T870 has a ROC of 3,325 lbs. (1,508 kg) or 7 percent more than the current largest compact track loader, the T320.
In addition, the loaders are the highest lifting loaders in the industry with 144 in. (366 cm) lift height.
Production Is Key
The S850 and T870 will have the same increased hydraulic performance as the other M-Series loader models. The hydraulic systems on M-Series loaders have been engineered for higher standard flow and pressure that give attachments more power to work more quickly, according to the manufacturer.
The standard auxiliary hydraulic flow on the S850 is 23 gpm (87 Lpm) at 3,500 psi and an optional high flow feature reaches 37 gpm (140 Lpm) for maximum attachment performance.
On the T870 the standard auxiliary hydraulic flow is 23.8 gpm (90 Lpm), with an optional high flow of 37.4 gpm (141 Lpm).
New job-enhancing features were added to the optional deluxe instrumentation panel. Available only on M-Series machines, the panel intelligently monitors key loader functions, and the keyless start helps prevent theft. The new 5 in., full-color LCD screen offers better readability and interaction. Easy-to-read virtual sweep gauges allow the operator to quickly read and understand the machine’s performance.
Increased Uptime
The loaders are designed to work long hours on demanding job sites, and operators want to spend minimal time on routine maintenance to start the workday earlier. Simple checks and enhanced design make it easier to perform maintenance correctly at the proper intervals.
The hydraulic quick couplers are mounted directly to the front plate of the lift arm to provide a solid mounting and quick coupler hoses completely run through the loader arms for better protection. A guard bar extends in front of the coupler for added security.
Keeping the loaders cool when working long hours is important in prolonging the service life of the machine. That is why Bobcat redesigned the cooling system on the M-Series for increased efficiency and higher performance. The new design also makes it easier to clean out the cooling system, with an oil cooler that swings up, allowing the operator to clean the area between the oil cooler and the radiator.
Improved Visibility
The S850 and T870, like other M-Series loader models, feature a cab-forward design that not only makes the loaders look different, but also moves the operator closer to the attachment and provides increased visibility in all directions, according to the manufacturer.
Enhanced visibility is provided to the cutting edge of the bucket or the corners of an attachment because the cab door threshold has been lowered and the overall surface of the door has increased more than 40 percent.
Windows on the sides and rear of the cab also have been increased in size to provide more visibility to the tires and to the rear. The larger top window makes it easier and more comfortable for the operator to see the attachment with the lift arms raised, an advantage when loading trucks or performing other tasks.
Cab Comfort
Comfortable operators are more productive, so to create a better working environment, Bobcat increased the size of the M-Series cab by 10 percent, redesigned the interior to allow operators to adjust the environment to their individual preferences and improved cab pressurization.
Bobcat M-Series loaders’ pressurized cab have a one-piece seal that goes all the way around the door and fits into a special curved pocket. This minimizes the amount of dirt and dust that might enter the cab, creating more enjoyable working conditions and making it easier to clean the cab, according to the manufacturer.
Noise is another factor affecting operator comfort, and Bobcat reduced the sound level of M-Series loaders by more than 60 percent. New engine mounts improve isolation to decrease vibration and reduce sound levels.
The control levers on both standard controls with power assist, and the optional selectable joystick controls (SJC) move up and down in conjunction with the seat to reduce arm movement and fatigue as the operator controls the machine. The joystick mounts slide forward or backward to adjust to the preference of each individual operator.
For more information, visit www.bobcat.com.
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