Bobcat launch top-of-the-range compact loaders

20 September, 2010

Bobcat have launched the new S850 skid-steer loader and T870 compact tracked loader, the most powerful loaders offering the highest lift height ever manufactured by the company.

Bigger and longer than the current large frame models (S300/S330 and T300/T320), the new top-of-the-range loaders combine high power and performance with industry-leading lifting heights to set new performance standards in compact loaders. The latest additions to the New Generation range of Bobcat loaders, the S850 and T870, also offer significantly improved visibility and best-in-class comfort, greater pushing power, more powerful hydraulics, increased fuel capacity, higher rated operating capacities, higher horsepower and more uptime protection.

The S850 and T870 loaders are intended to run the most powerful attachments from Bobcat such as wheel saws to cut trenches for cable/pipe laying (including the new WS32 wheel saw providing an 80cm dig depth) and the forestry cutter attachment. As well as work with these powerful attachments, the high productivity of the machines provides new solutions for other demanding applications: ship trimming, grading, lifting, planing, landscaping, trenching, rental, construction and demolition.

The 4,549kg S850 skid-steer loader has a rated operating capacity of 1,760kg, 17% more than the current largest skid-steer loader, the S330 model. A similar comparison of the two machines reveals the following performance enhancements for the S850:

26% more digging power
8% more engine power (68.6kW)
11% more lift height
improved cooling performance and longer run time
SJC or SCPA controls and two-speed system fitted as standard on the S850.

The 5,751kg T870 compact tracked loader has a rated operating capacity of 1,508kg, which is 7% more than that of the previous largest compact tracked loader, the T320 model. A fuller assessment shows the following specifications for the T870 compared to the T320:

12% more digging power
8% more engine power (74kW)
12% more lift height
improved cooling performance and longer run time
SJC controls and roller suspension fitted as standard on the T870.

Offering a lift height of 3,657mm, the S850 and T870 loaders are the highest lifting compact loaders in the industry. This lift height is useful for loading high-sided trucks, farm trailers and cement mixers, as well as for stacking materials such as bricks, blocks or other palletized materials.

Improved visibility

Like other New Generation loader models, the S850 and T870 feature the cab-forward design that moves the operator closer to the attachment and provides improved visibility in all directions.

Superior visibility is provided to the cutting edge of the bucket and the corners of an attachment thanks to the cab door, the largest available on the market. The low cab door threshold and the large overall surface of the door provide improved visibility and ensure it is easier for operators to enter and exit the cab. Windows on the sides and rear of the cab have also been increased in size to provide more visibility to the tyres 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, a distinct advantage when loading trucks.

Cab comfort

Complementing the increase in the size of the door, Bobcat have also increased the size of the cab on the New Generation loaders by 10%. Based on the axiom that comfortable operators are more productive, the new enhanced interior allows operators to adjust the environment to their individual preferences.

The cab also offers best-in-class pressurization, with a new one-piece seal that goes all the way around the door, fitting into a special curved pocket, minimizing the amount of dirt and dust that can enter the cab. New engine mounts improve isolation to decrease vibration and reduce sound levels. Thanks to these and other measures, the sound level of the loaders has been reduced by more than 60%.

The standard selectable joystick controls (SJC) for both the S850 and T870 can move up and down in conjunction with the seat to reduce arm movement and operator fatigue. The joystick mounts slide forward and backward to adjust to the preference of each individual operator.

The optional deluxe instrumentation panel intelligently monitors key loader functions, while the keyless start feature is designed to prevent theft. The new 127mm, full-colour LCD screen is more interactive and easier to read. Virtual sweep gauges allow the operator to quickly read and understand the machine’s performance.

Increased hydraulic performance

In common with the first New Generation Bobcat compact loaders launched earlier in 2010, the S850 and T870 models offer a significant increase in hydraulic performance, allowing them to accomplish more work efficiently. The hydraulic systems have been engineered for higher standard flow and pressure to provide more power for work with attachments. The standard auxiliary hydraulic flow on the S850 is 87 litres/min at 241 bar, while the optional high-flow feature delivers 140 litres/min for maximum attachment performance. On the T870, the standard auxiliary hydraulic flow is 90 litres/min, with an optional high flow of 142 litres/min.

Increased uptime

The S850 and T870 loaders are designed to work long hours on demanding job sites. Simple checks and superior design make it easier to perform routine maintenance at the proper intervals. The auxiliary hydraulic hoses run completely through the loader arms for better protection. The hydraulic quick couplers are mounted directly on the front plate of the lift arm to provide a solid mounting. A guard bar extends in front of the coupler for added security.

The cooling system on the New Generation loaders is designed to keep the loaders cool when working long hours to ensure a long service life. The 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.