India
North America

Skid-Steer Loaders

Backoe Loader

B900
B900NG

Tractor

CT1021
SpecSpec
CT1025
Specspec

Compact Loader

MT55
SpecMT85
Build & QuoteMT100
s740
Specs76
Build & Quotes450

Steer Loaders

SpecT550
Build & QuoteT590
DealerT590
T64
SpecT66
Build & QuoteT440
DealerT46

All Wheel Loaders

AWL 100
ModelAWL 101
SpecAWL 102
QuoteAWL 102
DealerAWL 105
AWL 1001
ModelAWL 1002
SpecAWL 1003
QuoteAWL 1004
DealerAWL 1005

TeleHandelrs

TL 201
ModelTL 202
SpecTL 203
QuoteTL 204
DealerTL 205
contactsTL 206
ModelTH 4002
SpecTH 4005
QuoteTH 450
DealerTH 457
contactsTH 423

Bobcat Tractor

T300
ModelT301
SpecT302
QutoeT303
DealerT304
ContactsT305
LocationT306
T3001
ModelT3002
SpecT3004
QutoeT3005
DealerT3006
Contactsconfigure
LocationDoosan

Current Loaders

S64 T4 Bobcat
S/N PrefixB4SC
Download Service Schedule
SpecS64 T4 Bobcat
RequestS64 T4 Bobcat
ModelS64 T4 Bobcat
ProductS64 T4 Bobcat
DealerS64 T4 Bobcat
S64 T4 Bobcat
S/N PrefixS64 T4 Bobcat
DownloadS64 T4 Bobcat
SpecS64 T4 Bobcat
RequestS64 T4 Bobcat
ModelS64 T4 Bobcat
ProductS64 T4 Bobcat
DealerS64 T4 Bobcat

Posted: 12/17/2018

4 Tips to Select the Right Loader Bucket for Your Compact Loader

A Bobcat T595 compact track loader moves dirt with a bucket.

Buckets are one of the most commonly used attachments for compact equipment, specifically compact track loaders and skid-steer loaders. While they may seem like a one-size-fits-all attachment, there are many bucket types to choose from depending on your application.

Before selecting a loader bucket, evaluate the weight and capacity. Then, consider the application the bucket will be used in, the density of the heaviest material, the accessories that can be used and the coupling systems for easy attachment changes. Choosing the right bucket can go a long way toward meeting your daily production goals.

Evaluate material density

Before performing tasks like loading, carrying and stockpiling, determine the bucket weight and capacity. Calculate the average density of the material to be moved, and then compare that to the tipping load and lifting capacity of the loader to ensure the material can be moved safely.

If you are working with different types of materials, spec the bucket based on the heaviest material it will handle. Pushing a machine beyond these limits can accelerate wear, affect machine durability and significantly lower your return on investment.

Match loader bucket to material

Bucket choices for compact track loaders and skid-steer loaders are numerous, so it’s important that you understand the different styles to best meet your needs. 

Dirt buckets

For bulk applications, a traditional dirt bucket is a popular choice. Dirt buckets are rugged and durable, making them a good choice for digging as well as moving dirt and rocks.

General purpose buckets

The most common bucket design is a general purpose bucket for maximum filling and material retention. This design is ideal for light-duty grading and leveling applications as well as day-to-day material handling. They offer good breakout force, especially when working on general aggregates in construction and municipal applications.

Heavy-duty and severe-duty buckets

For more abrasive applications, consider pairing your loader with a heavy-duty or severe-duty bucket. Typically, they are designed for heavy-duty grading and leveling as well as moving higher-density materials in construction and industrial applications.

Light material buckets

If you are looking to move larger loads with smaller densities, a snow or light material bucket may be an economical solution. Light material buckets offer higher capacities than general purpose buckets, making them ideal for lifting snow, mulch or other light materials. These buckets are primarily used in snow applications.

Low profile buckets

A popular choice in leveling and grading applications, a low profile bucket has a longer lip and lower back for exceptional cutting-edge visibility when working in tight spaces.

Specialty buckets

If your jobsite calls for a different bucket style and design, look at specialty buckets. Many compact equipment manufacturers make a variety of unique buckets, including rock and combination (or 4-in-1) buckets.

Rock buckets work well for handling rocks and debris in construction applications. This type of bucket features tines to easily separate materials while the soil sifts through. Combination buckets are versatile attachments with multiple functions, including loading, grappling, dozing, leveling and digging.

To help make the best decision when selecting a bucket, visit your local dealer.

Use ground engaging tools

Cut through material more easily with ground engaging tools, such as bucket teeth. Many manufacturers offer a vast number of interchangeable bolt-on teeth options for specific buckets. Heavier-duty buckets, such as rock buckets, typically feature weld-on teeth to reduce wear.

Replaceable cutting edges and extra guarding can be added to buckets to protect and promote overall productivity.

Quickly change buckets

There are times when more than one bucket may be right for your application. On most manufacturers’ machines, an attachment quick-change mechanism is standard to easily change buckets. While these systems can save you time, consider adding a powered quick-attach mechanism to your loaders. These mechanisms provide many more efficiencies by allowing operators to rapidly change buckets or other non-hydraulic attachments from the comfort and security of a cab.

Selecting the right loader bucket can increase your productivity and reduce operating costs. Evaluate the bucket weight and capacity first, then select the bucket design that best matches your application. If you are unsure about material weights or which bucket may be the best choice for your application, contact your local dealer for assistance.

Related Special Offers

Bobcat S650 Skid-Steer Loader
Offer ends February, 28, 2019

Financing or Rebates for Bobcat Skid-Steer Loaders

Purchase a new Bobcat skid-steer loader from a participating dealer in the United States & Canada and receive 0% APR for up to 60 months* or in lieu of financing rebates up to $2,500 USD* / $3,300 CAD*.

The offer starts 01/01/2019 and ends 02/28/2019

Bobcat MT85 Mini track Loader
Offer ends February 28, 2019

Financing or Rebates for Bobcat Mini Track Loaders

Purchase a new Bobcat mini track loader from a participating dealer in the United States & Canada and receive 0% APR for up to 48 months* or in lieu of financing rebates up to $400 USD* / $500 CAD*.

The offer starts 01/01/2019 and ends 02/28/2019

Bobcat all wheel steer loader
Offer Ends December 31, 2018

Lease for Bobcat All-Wheel Steer Loaders

Leasing a Bobcat® all-wheel steer loader is a simple, flexible and affordable way to bring the legendary productivity of the world’s toughest brand to your business. With a lease, you’ll have fewer upfront costs, lower monthly payments and flexible contract terms. For you, that means better cash flow to build your business.

The offer starts 10/01/2018 and ends 12/31/2018

Bobcat MT85 mini track loader.
Offer Ends December 31, 2018

Lease for Bobcat Mini Track Loaders

Leasing a Bobcat® mini track loader is a simple, flexible and affordable way to bring the legendary productivity of the world’s toughest brand to your business. With a lease, you’ll have fewer upfront costs, lower monthly payments and flexible contract terms. For you, that means better cash flow to build your business.

The offer starts 10/01/2018 and ends 12/31/2018

Bobcat T870 Compact Track Loader
Offer ends December 31, 2018

Financing or Rebates for Bobcat Compact Track Loaders

Purchase a new Bobcat compact track loader from a participating dealer in the United States & Canada and receive 0% APR for up to 48 months* or in lieu of financing rebates up to $3,500 USD* / $4,600 CAD*.

The offer starts 03/01/2018 and ends 12/31/2018

Bobcat Auger Attachment on the A770 All-Wheel Steer Loader
Offer ends December 31, 2018

Financing or Rebates for Bobcat All-Wheel Steer Loaders

Purchase a new Bobcat all-wheel steer loader from a participating dealer in the United States & Canada and receive 0% APR for up to 48 months* or in lieu of financing rebates up to $3,000 USD* / $3,900 CAD*.

The offer starts 01/01/2018 and ends 12/31/2018

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