WEST FARGO, N.D. - Bobcat Company has introduced the 500 frame-size skid-steer and compact track loaders, with seven medium-size machines that provide operators with feature upgrades including increased visibility, a more comfortable cab and easier serviceability. All seven models began limited production in September, with full availability at dealerships in January, and will replace the current K-Series models, S150, S160, S175, S185, S205, T180 and T190.

New machines include the S510, S530, S550, S570 and S590 skid-steer loaders, and the T550 and T590 compact track loaders. The S510, S550 and T550 feature a radius lift path, providing operators the reach and visibility they require for dumping over a wall, backfilling or loading flatbed trucks.

The S530, S570, S590 and T590 models feature a vertical lift path, providing operators the ability to lift heavier loads higher to clear high-sided truck boxes and hoppers, as well as placing pallets loaded with heavy material.

The 500 frame-size loaders feature a unique cab-forward design that not only gives the machines a different look, but also moves the operator closer to the attachment and provides visibility in all directions. The loaders tout a large cab door opening, offering visibility to the cutting edge of the bucket or the corners of an attachment. 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. The height of the cab has been increased, providing additional headroom, while still keeping the overall machine size small enough to operate in tight spaces. The larger top window makes it easier and more comfortable for the operator to see an attachment with the lift arms raised, an advantage when loading trucks or performing other tasks.

The auxiliary hydraulic quick couplers are mounted directly to the front plate of the lift arm to provide a solid mounting, and hoses are routed through the loader arms for better protection. A guard bar extends in front of the coupler for added security and a steel tailgate prevents items from penetrating the engine compartment.

Operators have the choice between standard foot pedal hydraulic controls, the Advanced Control System (ACS) or the Selectable Joystick Controls (SJC). The standard foot pedals control the lift and tilt through mechanical linkage. The optional ACS lets the loader operator use a dash-mounted switch to instantly select between advanced hand control and advanced foot control of lift and tilt functions. The low effort control levers of the optional SJC can be operated in the ISO or H pattern.

The 500 frame-size loaders will have increased hydraulic performance over their K-Series equivalents. The hydraulic systems on M-Series loaders have been engineered for higher standard flow and pressure, which gives attachments more power to work more quickly. Size, horsepower and cubic-inch displacement are matched to the loader’s rated operating capacity, balance and weight.

The skid-steer models offer a two-speed option which boosts the maximum travel speed from 7.4 mph in low range to 11 mph in high range. The hydraulic bucket positioning option keeps the loader bucket level as the lift arms travel upward, enabling operators to spill less and work faster.

New job-enhancing features were added to the optional deluxe instrumentation panel. Available only on M-Series loaders, the panel intelligently monitors key loader functions, and the keyless start helps prevent theft. The 5-inch, 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.

For more information on the Bobcat 500 frame-size loaders, please go to www.bobcat.com/500press.