Bobcat T76 compact-track loader 2023 Review

Mention skid-steer or compact-track loaders and the name Bobcat immediately springs to mind. The American-based company invented the very first skid-steer loader back in the 1950s and continues to perfect the machine till this day.

The compact-track loader has tracks instead of wheels and is more rugged compared to its wheeled cousin, due to its ability to work in rough terrain and muddy ground.

After decades of success with its compact loaders, Bobcat recently decided to revamp the range to ensure it stays on top of its game. In 2020, following what the company says is the range’s biggest redesign in 60 years, the R-series loaders were born.

Along with a range of upgrades, the R-series also features a new naming system with a letter and two numbers instead of three as per the previous M-series loaders. The ‘T’ in T76 stands for track while the wheeled models start with an ‘S’ for skid-steer.

constructionsales recently had the opportunity to hop in the cab of the T76 model for a spin, courtesy of Bobcat’s Australian distributor, Clark Equipment.

One of the key upgrades on the R-series is the engine, which is now a Tier 4-compliant Bobcat engine that does not feature a DPF system, meaning operators need not worry about a DPF’s inherent extra maintenance costs.

The inline engine and direct drive system can generate more torque across a much wider rev range than other engines for maximum performance, Bobcat said.

The T76 has a power output of 74hp and comes standard with a hydraulic flow of 88l/min. A high-flow hydraulics option of 114.7l/min is also available, allowing operators to utilise more rugged attachments with their loader such as stump grinders and trenchers.

An upgraded cooling system features a larger fan that cools at a slower rotation, consuming less power while reducing noise in the cab and around the machine. The fan is reversible to blow out any debris buildup from the rear screen, reducing the need for manual cleaning.

While Bobcat’s compact loaders have always been built tough, the R-series features several design tweaks to make the machines even tougher.

It now features a cast steel construction in its loader arms that, according to Bobcat, make them 20 per cent stronger. The use of cast steel not only make the lift arms stronger but also slimmer, allowing better vision of the attachments and work area.

The Bobcat T76 has an operating weight of about 5.2 tonnes with a combination 4-in-1 bucket fitted.

Speaking of lift, the T76 has been designed to lift higher and heavier, with a lift capacity of 1270kg at 35 per cent tipping load.

Operators have the option to add additional counterweights to the rear of the frame to increase lifting capacity and add extra stability to the machine.

The T76 has a vertical-lift path, which gives the machine better reach and a higher capacity than radius-lift machines. This makes the T76 ideal for clearing high-sided trucks or hoppers, for example.

Bobcat has also improved the undercarriage of the R-series loaders, giving them longer wheelbases for extra stability. The T76 comes standard with a 5-Link Torsion Suspension Undercarriage that Bobcat says provides a smoother ride. The patented suspension uses torsion axles to dampen vibration while a fifth link located on the rear axle provides additional ride comfort when grading or lifting.

The one-piece sealed and pressurised cab keeps dust and engine noise at bay, allowing operators to work in comfort and peace.

A roomier cab and spacious seat mean operators of any size and stature can feel right at home inside the machine.

Cab entry is via a swing-open door at the front, with a wide step allowing safe and easy ingress.

The T76, alongside all other R-series loaders, comes standard with mechanical suspension but operators can opt for a heated, air-ride suspension seat to further enhance comfort on long working days.

Another new feature available on the T76 and R-series loaders is an optional 7-inch touchscreen display that comes with integrated radio, Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free calling. It also comes with the rear-view camera pre-installed.

Alternatively, a standard 5-inch display can be controlled via a jog-dial. Both displays serve to inform operators of key machine parameters including fuel levels, engine coolant temperature and more.

A password-protected keyless start system prevents machinery theft and saves the operator from fumbling around with keys.

Selectable Joystick Control (SJC) is a standard feature on the T76, allowing all machine functions including driving and controlling the loader arms to be done via low-effort joysticks.

Drive and loader response times can be adjusted to be slower or quicker depending on what the operator hopes to achieve.

The joysticks can be adjusted for ISO or H patterns with the simple push of a button within the cab, allowing operators to pick the configuration they are most familiar with and get to work right away.

I have only driven skid-steers using ISO controls, and not having operated a compact loader in a while I was feeling slightly unsure, but upon jumping in and taking control of the machine, I was off and working in no time.

Even with mesh screens fitted around the machine, vision was excellent, and the addition of the reverse camera in the cab giving operators the confidence they need to get their job done safely.

Standard LED lights on the front and rear provide sufficient lighting for the operator to work in low-light conditions, while optional, premium LED lights extend to the upper corners of the cab to provide a wider beam and stronger illumination for night or dawn work.

Bobcat has designed the T76 to be easy to maintain. A swing-open door at the back of the machine gives operators easy access to the engine and relevant check points for most daily servicing requirements.

The one-piece cab can also tilt up and out of the way for improved access to certain areas and components. Tilting the cab is a bit of a bother as it requires the strength of two people, but it is only required occasionally for more significant maintenance or repair tasks.

Since Bobcat burst onto the scene with its compact loaders some 60 years ago, plenty of big names in the heavy machinery industry have jumped on the bandwagon and come up with their own versions of skid-steers and track loaders, hence increasing competition within the segment.

Therefore, Bobcat’s thirst for innovation and constant improvement is a welcome outlook, even though the company’s machines basically sell themselves.

The R-series loaders combine style and function seamlessly, ensuring Bobcat remains on top of its loader game.

While stock of the R-series loaders is very limited at the moment, Clark Equipment encourages those interested to talk to their local dealership to find out more about the machines, stock availability and potential wait times.