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Posted: 01/02/2016

Smarter Engineering

A broken hose or damaged coupler can waste precious work time. That’s why Bobcat® compact (mini) excavators are engineered to protect against damage. Caterpillar®, John Deere®, and Kubota® don’t measure up to the same standards. Their poorly designed hose systems can easily snag on jobsite obstacles. Only Bobcat makes protecting your machine a priority. Watch the test to see for yourself.

Smarter Engineering Overview

Bobcat compact (mini) excavators hose routing comparison overview video.

When you’re searching for an excavator, hydraulic hose routing might not be a major consideration. But, it’s a detail that shouldn’t be overlooked. Poorly designed hose systems can easily snag on obstacles like tree branches or utility poles. And a broken hose could delay your project and produce costly downtime.

Watch the Full Test

Bobcat compact (mini) excavators hose routing comparison test video.

When you compare excavators side-by-side, it’s easy to see the differences in hose routing design. Some manufacturers keep them protected, while others leave them exposed, increasing the chance for costly damage. Which brand of compact excavator does the best job of protecting hydraulic hoses? Watch the test results to find out.

Bobcat vs. Other Brands

Hose routing comparison of Bobcat® vs Caterpillar® vs John Deere® vs Kubota® compact (mini) excavators.

Test Results

Many compact (mini) excavator manufacturers leave your machine open to hydraulic hose damage with poor design. Bobcat hydraulic lines are mounted inside the width of the boom and away from potential damage. Caterpillar®, John Deere®, and Kubota® don’t measure up to the same standards, leading to costly repairs. Other smart Bobcat design considerations include high-mounted quick couplers, fewer snag points, secured hose and line mounts, and fewer fittings and hoses.

Protected Components

Protected hoses on arm of Bobcat compact (mini) excavator.

Exposed hoses, weaker components and inferior design may mean a trip to the shop when you need your machine the most. All Bobcat compact excavators are equipped with a durable tailgate, protected hydraulic lines, smarter hose routing and a redesigned workgroup.

Machine Protection

Bobcat compact excavator (mini excavator) with breaker attachment.

Bobcat compact excavators are designed to prevent problems before they occur. Electronics meet or exceed military requirements for sealing, moisture, shock and vibration. Automatic glow plugs deliver easier starts and longer starter life, while battery run-down protection protects against vandals or forgetful operators.

How We Test Equipment

Bobcat Advantage behind the scenes testing equipment video.

When you’re shopping for a new machine, it’s easy to compare specs. After all, that’s the best way to compare machines, right? Not quite. With specs, you’re only getting part of the story. They don’t measure real performance on your jobsite and that’s what matters most. It’s the reason we put top brands through the paces with fair, accurate, and repeatable tests. Watch to see how we developed the tests.

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