August 2009 Vol. 64 No. 8
New Products
Bobcat M Series Skid-Steer Loaders
Since inventing the skid steer loader more than 50 years ago, Bobcat has constantly improved loader design to make operators more productive and comfortable.
New Bobcat M Series skid steer and compact track loaders feature the most significant design changes undertaken by the company. This new design enables 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 through improved visibility and a more spacious and comfortable cab.
The first M Series models are the S630 skid steer loader and the T630 compact track loader. The S650 and the T650 will be available in August and additional models will be available in the future.
The S630 has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 2,180 pounds and an operating weight of 7,707 pounds. The S650 has a ROC of 2,690 pounds and an operating weight of 8,327 pounds. The T630 has a ROC of 2,230 pounds and an operating weight of 9,015 pounds. Finally, the T650 has a ROC of 2,570 pounds and an operating weight of 9,440 pounds.
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. Hydraulic horsepower has been increased more than 15 percent and the standard auxiliary hydraulic flow is now 23 gpm at 3,500 pound per square inch and an optional high flow reaches 30.5 gpm for maximum attachment performance.
A removable hydraulic hose guide makes changing attachments easier and correctly routes the hoses, preventing wear. The guide slides onto attachment hoses and is easily attached to the loader during attachment hook up. The operator does not have to twist or bend hoses. Attachments approved for use on M Series loaders have a post for the removable hose guide that keeps the hose secure, clean and protected when the attachment is not in use.
More power
Other performance enhancements include an increase of the tractive effort of M Series loaders by 15 to 20 percent to provide exceptional pushing and digging power; holes for frame mounted counterweights that increase lifting performance with certain attachments; and a larger fuel capacity that allows the loader to work longer between fueling.
The hydraulic quick couplers are now mounted directly to the front plate of the lift arm. A guard bar extends out in front of the coupler for added protection.
The lower rear frame of M Series loaders extends past the tailgate and protects the rear of the machine from obstacles, scrapes and bumps on the work site. The tailgate door now swings open to the left, which makes it easier to fuel the loader when it is mounted on a trailer.
Maintenance of M Series loaders has been simplified with a new hydraulic sight gauge that helps the operator quickly keep an eye on hydraulic oil levels, and end greased pivot pins at key points around the loader for simpler greasing of the pins.
The unique cab forward design not only makes the new loaders look different, it also serves the important purpose of moving the operator closer to the attachment and providing unmatched visibility in all directions.
Superior visibility is provided to the cutting edge of a bucket or the corners of an attachment because the cab door is the largest available on the market. The cab door threshold has been lowered and the overall surface of the door has increased more than 40 percent to provide improved visibility and make it 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 tires and to the rear.
Comfortable operators are more productive, and to create a better working environment, Bobcat increased the size of the cab by 10 percent, redesigned the interior to allow operators to adjust the environment to their individual preference and improved cab pressurization.
Noise is another factor affecting operator comfort, and Bobcat has 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.
Fast Facts
- Unique cab forward design brings the operator closer to the work area and better overall visibility;
- Larger door improves visibility and makes entry and exit of the machine easier;
- Increased size of windows on the sides, rear and top of the machine;
- Best in class pressurized cab keeps operator and cab interior clean;
- New engine mounts reduce noise by more than 60 percent and decrease vibration;
- Greater availability of adjustments to the seat accommodates operators of different sizes;
- The joysticks on models with Selectable Joystick Controls move up and down with the seat;
- Higher standard flow and pressure on hydraulic system increases productivity;
- Removable hydraulic hose guide protects hoses and makes changing and routing attachments easier;
- Tractive effort increased 15 to 20 percent;
- Hydraulic couplers mounted on front plate to protect hoses and couplers from damage;
- Lower rear frame extends out beyond tailgate, protecting the rear of the loader from obstacles and scrapes and bumps;
- Simplified maintenance though hydraulic sight gauge and end greased pivot pins;
- First models available are the S630 skid steer loader and the T630 compact track loader; and
- The S650 and T650 will be available in August, with additional models to follow.
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