The rise of domestic construction machinery has long been a hope for many in China. Despite concerns over the potential issues with local machines, many users still hesitate to purchase them. However, in recent times, events like the Diaoyu Island dispute have sparked a surge in national pride, especially in industries like construction equipment. As a result, many international brands like Komatsu, Hitachi, and Sumitomo, who had initially planned to attend the 2012 Bauma Exhibition, chose to withdraw, fueling a sense of patriotism among the industry. This heightened sense of national pride encourages people to support domestic brands, making it an ideal time for Chinese machinery to take the spotlight.
One such domestic machine is the Yuchai 230LC-8, a model that is gaining traction among Chinese users. In this article, we explore the 500-hour usage report of this excavator by a user from Xinjiang, and delve into his thoughts on Yuchai and the rise of domestic brands.
Choosing a Domestic Excavator: Why the Yuchai 230LC-8?
The user, known as "Lei Pang Zi 007", is based in Xinjiang and works extensively with construction machinery. With the rising costs of labor, the need for reliable construction equipment has become more apparent. After much deliberation, Lei Pang Zi 007 decided to purchase an excavator to meet the growing demand for earth-moving work.
The Decision Process:

1. Considering Foreign Brands:
   Initially, Lei Pang Zi 007 considered purchasing a foreign-brand machine like the Caterpillar 320D. However, despite the high residual value of foreign machines, the higher fuel consumption and substantial loan payments made him lean toward more cost-effective options. The long payback period also played a role in the decision.
   
2. Evaluating Japanese and Korean Machines:
   The next option was to go for a Japanese or Korean machine. Although brands like Doosan and Hyundai were attractive due to their competitive pricing, Lei Pang Zi 007 harbored some concerns about the quality and longevity of these machines, which made him reconsider.
   
3. Exploring Used Machines:
   The idea of purchasing a second-hand machine was also explored. However, most used Japanese machines in Xinjiang had already clocked over 10,000 hours, with some lacking clear usage records. The price of these used machines, combined with the potential risk of hidden problems, led him to dismiss this option.
   
4. Opting for Domestic Machines:
   After evaluating various options, Lei Pang Zi 007 decided to purchase a Yuchai 230LC-8. His reasons for choosing a domestic excavator were based on several factors:
   • Cost-Effectiveness: Yuchai machines are generally more affordable compared to foreign brands, offering a quicker return on investment.
     
   • After-Sales Service: Yuchai offers better accessibility for parts and servicing, which is crucial for long-term maintenance.
     
   • Domestic Engine: The Yuchai 230LC-8 is equipped with a Yuchai engine, which has been widely used in Chinese vehicles. This compatibility makes it easier for him to maintain and repair the machine in the future.
     

• Engine and Fuel Efficiency: The Yuchai 230LC-8 is equipped with a Yuchai engine, offering 115 kW of power. The fuel consumption is relatively low, around 13 liters per hour at 4th gear, and between 16-18 liters per hour at 6th gear. This makes it quite efficient for various tasks, including earth-moving work. The machine can load a 24-ton truck in 5-6 minutes.
  
• Rotation Speed: One of the key strengths of the Yuchai 230LC-8 is its fast rotation speed. However, lifting the bucket can sometimes be slower, which may impact certain tasks.
  
• Durability and Maintenance: Lei Pang Zi 007 appreciated the fact that spare parts for the Yuchai 230LC-8 are readily available, and replacing parts, such as the engine assembly, is relatively inexpensive, costing around 30,000 CNY.
  

• Initial Faults: While the Yuchai 230LC-8 performed well overall, it did experience a couple of issues early on. After 50 hours, the generator belt broke, and after 520 hours, the main power switch burned out. Fortunately, the manufacturer’s repair service was quick to respond, and the necessary parts were easy to obtain, causing minimal disruption to his work.
  

The Komatsu PC60-8 is a compact excavator introduced by Komatsu in 2011, and it made its debut at the Beijing BICES construction machinery exhibition that year. Positioned between the PC56-7 and PC70-8 models, the PC60-8 is ideal for earthworks. It features the high-power SAA4D95LE turbocharged engine, combining a small footprint with powerful performance, improved combustion, and excellent thermal efficiency.
Komatsu PC60-8 Key Specifications

• Engine Model: Komatsu SAA4D95LE-5
  
• Rated Power: 55PS (40.7kW)
  
• Operating Weight: 6180kg
  
• Max Travel Speed (High): 4.5 km/h
  
• Max Digging Depth: 3900mm
  
• Bucket Digging Force (Max): 5590Kgf
  
• Arm Digging Force (Max): 4060Kgf
  
• Max Digging Radius: 6190mm
  

1. Appearance & Comfort
   "HappyHunter" is very satisfied with the appearance of the Komatsu PC60-8. The cab offers ample space and the seat is comfortable, making the overall driving experience quite enjoyable.
   
2. Toolbox Design
   The PC60-8’s toolbox is convenient, though it’s a bit small—just enough space to fit one grease bucket. Despite its small size, it proves to be a practical feature.
   
3. Bucket Size
   The machine comes with a 0.3m³ rock bucket. While this bucket felt a bit oversized for most of the earthworks tasks, "HappyHunter" had initially wanted to switch to a different bucket but couldn't as the sales company did not have the compatible earthworks bucket available.
   
4. Walking Performance
   The walking performance varies in different modes. In “turtle mode,” when the throttle is at six, turning can feel a bit difficult. In “rabbit mode,” however, a seven-speed throttle is necessary to achieve the desired walking speed. Compared to the PC60-7, the PC60-8’s walking speed isn’t as quick.
   

1. Paint Quality Issue
   Although "HappyHunter" takes good care of the machine, he noticed the paint started bubbling on the rear of the machine after just 500 hours. This raises concerns about the durability of the paint job.
   
2. Fuel Consumption
   While the PC60-8 delivers solid performance, its fuel consumption is higher than the previous PC60-7 model. "HappyHunter" measured that the fuel tank capacity is smaller, and the fuel consumption is noticeably higher.
   
3. Joystick Feedback
   In the EO standard mode, using six throttle settings makes the joystick feel heavy. In the P power mode, however, the joystick feels lighter with the same throttle setting. This discrepancy might affect the precision and comfort of operations.
   
4. Rotation Speed and Force
   While the PC60-8’s power is impressive, its rotation speed is somewhat slow. The response time for compound actions is quick, but overall, it feels less agile compared to other models in its class.
   

On August 8, 2012, the new generation ZY60 mini excavator, powered by Quanchai engines, rolled off the production line at Rongsheng Machinery's facility in Hefei. The use of a domestic engine, particularly from Quanchai, has caught the attention of many industry observers. While the use of local engines in small excavators is not new, the timing of this product’s release – at a critical moment in the collaboration between Rongsheng Heavy Industries and Quanchai Power – has sparked curiosity and concerns among users.
A New Player with Local Power
Currently, the majority of small excavators in China still rely on foreign engine brands such as Cummins, Isuzu, Yanmar, Mitsubishi, and Perkins. However, some manufacturers, including Yuchai, Changchai, and Quanchai, have ventured into using domestic engines for their products, especially in machines under 5 tons. The ZY60 is a notable addition to this category, and its launch by Rongsheng Heavy Industries has generated mixed reactions in the market.
Some experienced users from the machinery community have expressed their views on this new development, with varied opinions on the use of domestic engines in excavators.

• User "罩得住": While domestic engines like Weichai and Yuchai are mainstream, small excavators with domestic engines tend to have shorter lifespans. Many new domestic mini excavators are prone to issues, such as air conditioning failures and oil leaks, which can affect long-term durability.
  
• User "沐浴阳关": The small excavator market is seeing growth, especially due to lower purchase costs. The introduction of the ZY60 means more competition in the market. The benefit of using domestic engines is that they lower both purchase and maintenance costs, making it easier for users to manage repairs, though it may come with higher failure rates.
  
• User "汗鱼": The use of domestic engines in small excavators is not unprecedented. The key factor is whether the engine’s power output is well-matched to the machine’s design. The real challenge lies in the selection of hydraulic components.
  
• User "堕落天使": Domestic engines like Yuchai have been used in small excavators for some time. The ZY60 is not a groundbreaking example; it is a cost-effective machine. While domestic engines work in small excavators, they tend to be noisier and have shorter lifespans.
  

The Hitachi ZX70 mini excavator has gained popularity among users for its excellent fuel efficiency and stable performance. Discussions about the ZX70, especially regarding fuel consumption and machine performance, have been quite active in the machinery community. Below is a user report from chenwei, who has used his Hitachi ZX70 for 2100 hours, providing an in-depth look into his experience with this machine.
Purchase Background and Reason for Choosing the ZX70
Chenwei previously owned a Yuchai 85 mini excavator. In December 2010, he decided to sell it and purchased a Hitachi ZX70 for 480,000 RMB. He considered mini excavators from Komatsu and Caterpillar, but ultimately chose the ZX70 due to its larger size, inclusion of a bulldozer blade, and more favorable pricing. Since then, this ZX70 has been in operation for 2100 hours.
Machine Specifications

• Engine: Isuzu 6BD1, rated power of 40.5 kW
  
• Weight: 7.49 tons
  
• Bucket Capacity: 0.3m³ (optional 0.38m³)
  
• Chassis Dimensions: Length 2.76 meters, Width 2.2 meters
  
• Digging Radius: 6.32 meters
  
• Max Digging Depth: 4.17 meters
  
• Attachments: Equipped with a bulldozer blade, suitable for various types of work
  

The KATO HD820R excavator has received significant attention in the construction industry due to its speed and efficiency. While users generally appreciate its performance, there are also some drawbacks. This review, shared by a user named Dai Rui Rui, provides insights after 3,636 hours of usage. Let's dive into his experiences with the machine.
Machine Overview
Purchased in May 2010 from Tianjin, the KATO HD820R was bought with a financing plan over three years at nearly 1.2 million RMB. All of the work done with this machine has been related to earthmoving tasks, and the owner, Dai Rui Rui, highlights the impressive speed at which the HD820R handles this type of work.
Engine and Fuel Efficiency
The HD820R is powered by a Mitsubishi 6D34 engine, which provides a rated power of 110 kW at 2,050 RPM. According to Dai Rui Rui, the fuel consumption of the excavator in general working mode is between 15 to 16 liters per hour. When operating at full load, the fuel consumption increases to around 22 to 25 liters per hour. This fuel efficiency is relatively good, considering the machine’s power and the type of work it performs.
Performance and Maintenance Issues
At around 3,000 hours of use, Dai Rui Rui encountered a minor issue with an oil seal leak on the guide wheel. Apart from this, there have been no other significant oil leaks, which is a point of satisfaction for him.
However, at 500 hours, the machine started emitting black smoke during operation. When the issue was raised with after-sales service, the response was that the problem stemmed from poor fuel quality and no maintenance measures were taken. This lack of support after the warranty period left Dai Rui Rui disappointed with the customer service.
Design and Aesthetic Feedback
On the design front, Dai Rui Rui finds the black engine cover of the HD820R particularly stylish. He also appreciates the convenient maintenance information stickers located on the machine, which outline the key maintenance areas and methods. However, he was let down by some issues related to the paintwork, which showed signs of peeling or chipping. This quality issue diminished his overall satisfaction with the machine's aesthetics.
Cabin and Comfort
In terms of operator comfort, the HD820R shines. The seat is highly adjustable, allowing for height adjustments and customizable spring tension to reduce vibrations, making it easier for the operator to work for long hours without discomfort. Additionally, the joystick control system is user-friendly and easy to operate.
However, Dai Rui Rui expressed some dissatisfaction with the display screen. The machine lacks a tachometer, and more importantly, there is no rearview camera, which can be a significant safety concern, especially when working in tight spaces or around obstacles.
Additional Modifications and Customizations
To further protect the machine, Dai Rui Rui added friction pads in areas prone to wear. He recommends this modification to new owners to prevent friction-related issues in the long term.
Summary of User Feedback
In conclusion, the KATO HD820R excavator has demonstrated excellent speed and work efficiency, particularly in earthmoving applications. Dai Rui Rui is generally satisfied with the machine’s fuel efficiency, comfort, and performance, though there are some areas that could use improvement:

• Fuel Efficiency: 15–16 L/h in regular mode, 22–25 L/h under full load.
  
• Minor Leaks: A guide wheel oil seal leak at 3,000 hours.
  
• Customer Service: Disappointing response from after-sales service, especially after the warranty expired.
  
• Aesthetic Quality: Issues with peeling paint.
  
• Comfort: Excellent seat comfort and easy-to-use joystick.
  
• Display: Lack of tachometer and rearview camera.
  
• Modifications: Useful friction pad additions to reduce wear and tear.
  

The Caterpillar 390D is the largest tracked excavator in the Caterpillar 300 series, and it has garnered significant attention in the construction machinery industry. Known for its robust performance, the 390D is recognized as a "giant" in the industry, both in terms of its size and capability. However, like any machine of its scale, it has faced rigorous scrutiny and feedback from users. While users are generally pleased with its performance, there are areas where improvements could enhance the overall experience.
User Background and Work Environment
Since its release, the Caterpillar 390D has attracted attention from users, particularly those in harsh working conditions such as coal mining. In one of the earliest user cases, six units of the 390D were deployed in Xinjiang, China. The primary task of these machines is to handle the removal of soil and coal from mining sites and load it onto transport vehicles. The work environment is particularly challenging, with extreme dust and heavy-duty operation conditions that test the machine's performance, durability, and operator control.
User Feedback and Performance
According to the first batch of users, the overall experience with the Caterpillar 390D is highly positive. Here are some key takeaways from their feedback:

1. Excellent Engine Performance: The engine delivers exceptional power and high efficiency, making it ideal for demanding jobs.
   
2. High Work Efficiency: The machine can complete between 9,000 and 13,000 cubic meters of work in 24 hours of continuous operation.
   
3. Effective Cooling System: The 390D is equipped with two large water tanks to help regulate the engine's temperature, ensuring continuous operation in high-stress environments.
   
4. Automatic Hydraulic Fan: The hydraulic fan is fully automatic, ensuring optimal cooling even in low temperatures when the machine starts.
   
5. Night Operation Support: Four batteries and eight lights are installed, ensuring sufficient lighting for nighttime work.
   
6. Comfortable Operator’s Cabin: The cabin features an airbag-style seat and comes standard with a radio for operator comfort during long hours of work.
   
7. Safe and Convenient Design: The machine has walkways on both sides for easy and safe access, enhancing operator safety.
   
8. Maintenance and Service: The machine has completed the first 500-hour service with relatively easy maintenance.
   
9. Fuel Consumption: Under full-load working conditions, the fuel consumption is approximately 80 liters per hour, which results in a daily fuel cost of around 10,000 RMB.
   
10. Minor Mechanical Issues: There have been occasional issues with bucket arm bolts breaking, but this was resolved by replacing the parts.
    
11. Optional Auto Greasing System: The automatic lubrication system is an optional feature, not standard, which adds to maintenance time if not chosen.
    
12. Bucket and Teeth Configuration: The machine comes with a 5.4 cubic meter bucket, but only four bucket teeth, which have a relatively wide spacing.
    
13. Balance Issues: Due to the shorter tracks, some users have reported a "tail swing" problem, affecting the machine’s balance.
    
14. Size and Maintenance Access: The machine is quite large, and maintenance cannot be performed on the ground without special equipment.
    
15. Camera Quality: The rear-view camera, while helpful, has low color saturation, which affects visibility.
    
16. Dust Issues: The working site is highly dusty, and the air filter needs to be cleaned every two days to ensure proper function.
    
17. Price: The price of each Caterpillar 390D unit is approximately 6 million RMB.
    
18. Manual: The user manual comes in English, which may require translation or a localized version for some users.
    

The Komatsu PC200-6E excavator, a model from the early 1990s, remains highly popular in the Chinese market, especially in the second-hand segment. Despite newer models being released, such as the PC200-8, the PC200-6E continues to stand out, particularly among users in Nigeria. The key reason for its popularity lies in the fact that many construction projects in Nigeria focus on earthwork, and the local labor rates are relatively low compared to other regions. As a result, users in Nigeria need machinery that provides high return on investment to adapt to the competitive environment, making the PC200-6E their go-to choice. Additionally, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are some of the busiest hubs for second-hand construction machinery, with many imported machines entering through Hong Kong and reaching Nigerian users, who are then able to access quality second-hand equipment.
A Well-Known Name Among Users
Purchasing one's first excavator can be a daunting decision, and reliable information often comes from word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and peers. In Nigeria, Japanese imported second-hand excavators are the most sought-after, and word-of-mouth is far more effective than heavy advertising. As a result, the reputation of the Komatsu PC200-6E has spread over the years, influencing new users entering the field. Mr. Zhan, a user who owns three Komatsu excavators, shares his personal experience with the PC200-6E. He started in 2008 with little knowledge of construction machinery, but after receiving recommendations from friends, he purchased the Komatsu PC200-6E. Over time, he found the machine reliable and was able to build his business on it.
User Experiences with the Komatsu PC200-6E
Durability, Low Maintenance Costs, and Fuel Efficiency
Mr. Zhan’s first PC200-6E had already accumulated around 5,000 hours when he purchased it, and now it has reached almost 10,000 hours of operation without any major repairs, only routine maintenance. This level of reliability has made him very satisfied with the machine, especially since he purchased the model with an intercooler, which further stabilized its performance. This durability is crucial in Nigeria, where labor costs are low, and an unreliable machine could result in significant losses due to downtime and repair costs. The PC200-6E's engine, the 6D95LE2, consumes only 11 to 12.5 liters of fuel per hour, making it highly fuel-efficient, which is especially beneficial for work on an hourly or daily basis.
Although no machine is completely free from issues, Mr. Zhan did experience minor failures in the generator and air conditioning system. However, the local repair shops in Nigeria are plentiful, skilled, and provide low-cost services, which helped him resolve the problems quickly and affordably. In his own words: “The fuel efficiency is excellent, and the machine rarely breaks down.”
Comfortable Operation
Though Mr. Zhan is not a professional operator, he occasionally uses the excavator and has developed an appreciation for its smooth and comfortable operation. He highlights that the PC200-6E's handling is particularly user-friendly compared to other brands, which can often feel clunky and unstable during operation. This positive feedback is consistent among many experienced operators, and it’s one of the reasons the PC200-6E remains so popular.
High Resale Value and Easy Marketability
After years of usage, an excavator will eventually be sold, and its resale value is a key factor. Thanks to the PC200-6E’s solid performance, demand for it remains strong in the second-hand market. In fact, some construction companies even request this specific model for their projects. When Mr. Zhan purchased his PC200-6E in 2008, it cost him around 550,000 yuan. Today, he estimates its resale value at around 400,000 to 650,000 yuan, depending on the market conditions. This high resale value shows just how well the machine holds its value, something that newer models can struggle to achieve after just a few years.
Tips for Maintaining the PC200-6E
While the PC200-6E is durable, regular maintenance is essential for long-term performance. Mr. Zhan emphasizes that operators should take good care of the machine, as it’s the key to maintaining its longevity and resale value. According to his experience, oil changes should be performed every 300 hours, and air filters and other consumables should be replaced regularly. He advises against cutting corners on these parts, either by finding trustworthy suppliers or opting for genuine parts.
When large components break, it’s better to repair them rather than replace them with cheaper, locally made parts. For example, Mr. Zhan had the generator repaired rather than replaced, and it continued to work fine afterward. He also mentions that the large arm occasionally experiences minor oil leakage, a common issue with this model. However, he suggests that if the leakage isn’t severe, operators shouldn’t rush to replace the seals, as the problem may resolve itself over time.
Final Thoughts
The Komatsu PC200-6E continues to be a strong performer in the second-hand market, particularly in Nigeria, where its durability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable operation make it the go-to choice for many users. Despite being an older model, it remains highly relevant and sought after, thanks to its reliable performance and strong resale value. For anyone considering a used excavator, the PC200-6E offers a proven track record that ensures both performance and profitability.

The SEM919 grader is a new product from Caterpillar SEM, retaining the design characteristics of Caterpillar graders. Compared to similar graders from other domestic brands, its appearance is similar, but it stands out in several areas with unique advantages and advanced features.
1. Key Configurations with Proven Technology from Reputable Brands

• Engine: The SEM919 is powered by the Shandong D9 turbocharged engine. This engine belongs to the D114 series, which has been under development since the mid-1980s. After more than 20 years of continuous improvement and innovation, it has become a mature and widely used engine in the construction machinery industry. It is compact, lightweight, durable, fuel-efficient, low noise, low emissions, and highly reliable, making it an excellent engine choice.
  
• Torque Converter and Transmission: The grader features the Hangzhou ZF WG180 torque converter and transmission system. It includes a torque converter and a multi-speed gearbox with an integrated transmission. This setup ensures smooth power delivery, minimal vibration, and stable operation. The transmission system is commonly used in domestic 180-horsepower graders, known for its low failure rate, high transmission efficiency, and ease of maintenance.
  
• Drive Axle: The drive axle is supplied by Xuzhou Meichi, which is known for its strong product development and innovation capabilities. The drive axles are durable, have a long lifespan, and can handle various working conditions. Meichi has established itself as an industry leader.
  
• Hydraulic System: The hydraulic system uses Rexroth load-sensing pumps, CAT directional control valves, and high-quality domestic components. This system is robust, long-lasting, and capable of handling various construction tasks.
  

SEM is set to launch two new motor graders, the SEM919 and SEM921, in the domestic market. In anticipation of the product release, SEM invited operators to experience these machines firsthand and provide valuable feedback to develop more targeted marketing strategies. To gain a deeper understanding of user impressions, SEM invited four experienced motor grader operators to participate in a test drive at their factory in Qingzhou, Shandong.
The test drive took place on July 22 in a spacious dirt field near the SEM factory, which provided an ideal terrain for various grader operations. After an in-depth introduction to the new products by SEM staff, operators began working with the SEM919 and another competing product currently available on the market.
According to SEM, both the SEM919 and SEM921 integrate Caterpillar’s proprietary technology, such as proportional priority and pressure-compensating control valves (PPPC). This technology makes the machines more responsive, improving overall performance and efficiency. The graders also feature world-class blade control systems, and the use of a control linkage pin and seven-hole connecting rods allows for fast and precise blade positioning. The optimized blade curvature and larger throat clearance improve material flow and passability, enhancing production efficiency. Furthermore, the new cooling system design ensures the machines can operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 50°C.
The SEM919 and SEM921 are designed to offer three key features: fuel savings, ease of operation, and broad adaptability.
Test Drive Performance
During the test drive, operators put the SEM919 through various tasks including heavy load, light load, trenching, turning (to test maneuverability, turning radius, and efficiency), fly-cutting, and road grading. These tests evaluated the machine's handling capabilities. The machines' configuration, built with mature technology from well-known brands, earned high scores for control performance. Key configurations include:

• Engine: The SEM919 features a Shangchai D9 turbocharged engine, known for its compact size, lightweight design, long service life, good fuel economy, low noise, and high reliability.
  
• Hydrostatic Transmission: The SEM919 uses the Hangzhou ZF WG180 transmission, which combines a torque converter and a multi-gear power shift transmission. This system provides smooth transmission, low vibration, and minimal impact. Additionally, the rear-mounted hydrostatic transmission design saves space in the front and makes maintenance easier.
  
• Hydraulic System: The hydraulic system incorporates Rexroth load-sensing piston pumps, Caterpillar's directional control valves, and domestically recognized components. This robust system ensures long service life and supports various construction conditions.
  

As small-scale engineering projects continue to increase, there is a growing demand for compact and flexible machinery. Skid steer loaders, in particular, have gained popularity due to their small size and versatility. These machines are widely used in road maintenance, snow removal, landscaping, as well as in forestry, farming, and construction sites. BobCat, the global leader in skid steer loaders, recently launched its latest M Series model, the S770, in China. Compared to its predecessor, the S300, the S770 offers increased lifting capacity, greater lift height, and significantly improved hydraulic flow, delivering impressive power. The S770 belongs to BobCat's M Series, which was introduced in 2011 as the company's flagship lineup, representing the highest standard in skid steer loader technology today.
Exterior Design
The S300 belongs to BobCat's K Series, with "300" indicating the rated load capacity. In contrast, the S770 is part of BobCat's M Series, and its "770" refers to the model number within the series, marking a shift in naming conventions where the model numbers no longer reflect the load capacity.
The M Series has a more robust and commanding appearance. Notably, the S770 features a wider rear door panel and introduces a rear door locking mechanism, a standard feature across all M Series machines. The M Series also provides 30% greater visibility compared to the K Series, thanks to improved door design. Additionally, the M Series eliminates the front footstep found in the K Series by lowering the bottom edge of the door, making it easier to access the machine.
The "cat ears," the lighting system on BobCat skid steer loaders, also received a design update. The M Series offers a rounder shape compared to the K Series, featuring robust steel plate protection around the headlights. These new vacuum-sealed headlights provide 50% greater illumination, ensuring excellent visibility during nighttime operations.
Cab and Operator Comfort
The M Series represents a significant step forward in operator comfort and ergonomics. The S770’s cabin is far more luxurious compared to the S300, featuring standard adjustable suspension seats for comfort, 10 air conditioning vents to prevent temperature variations, and a 60% reduction in cabin noise levels compared to the K Series. The external noise is also reduced by 50%, ensuring a quieter working environment.
The S770 is equipped with a pressurized cabin, which prevents dust from entering the interior, a crucial feature when working in harsh environments such as cement plants or mining sites. All M Series machines, including the S770, come standard with this pressurized cabin.
Additionally, the M Series offers more storage compartments and a cup holder, addressing long-standing convenience issues. Legroom is more spacious than in the K Series, providing greater comfort for operators. As more younger workers enter the construction machinery industry, the demand for in-cabin entertainment has risen. In response, BobCat has designed the M Series to accommodate an optional audio system, allowing operators to enjoy music during long hours of work.
Internal Components and Hydraulic System
The M Series introduces several updates to key internal components, including the hydraulic quick-connect system. The hydraulic lines are now routed inside the lift arms, offering better protection for the quick-change mechanism. During the launch event, many attendees expressed interest in the air filter location, which has been relocated in the M Series to a more accessible position on top of the engine, replacing the previous round air filter with a square one. The M Series also adds a centrifugal filter, improving filtration efficiency by 30%.
The M Series also uses a three-point engine mounting system, compared to the K Series’ four-point system. This change results in reduced engine noise and improved stability. The radiator cleaning process has also been simplified; the M Series features a support rod fixation method for easier maintenance compared to the K Series' snap-on system.
Work Performance
Since its debut in 2011, the M Series has been synonymous with high-performance machinery. The S770 is a prime example, with a 15% increase in traction capacity and an 18% faster cycle time for dumping and turning. The S770 achieves a remarkable vertical lift height of 3.35 meters, supported by a hydraulic system with a flow rate of 23gpm and a high-flow rate of 36.5gpm, with a hydraulic pressure of 3500psi, providing substantial power for various tasks.
For example, the S850, another powerful model in the M Series, has an operating weight of 4540kg and a maximum lifting capacity of 1792kg. It also boasts a maximum lift height of 3.66 meters, making it ideal for a variety of tasks.
Each BobCat skid steer loader comes with numerous configuration options, including four control modes (Standard, Power Assist, Advanced Control System, and optional Joystick Control). Additional optional features include a deluxe dashboard, climate control, travel control, Bob-Tach attachment system, high-flow hydraulics, and a power management system.
Standard and Optional Features
Each BobCat skid steer loader comes with the following standard configurations:

• Bob-Tach attachment mounting system
  
• High-strength rear steel plates
  
• Reinforced lift arms
  
• Dual-channel cooling system
  
• Maintenance-free chain systems
  

• Model: S770
  
• Series: M Series
  
• Rated Load Capacity: 1520kg
  
• Tipping Load: 3039kg
  
• Max Lift Height: 3353mm
  
• Operating Weight: 4162kg
  
• Engine Power: 92hp
  
• Engine Type: Turbocharged Diesel
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity (dual fuel tanks): 124.3L (103.1L + 21.2L)
  
• Hydraulic System Pressure: 3500psi
  
• Hydraulic Flow Rate: 87.1L/min
  
• High Flow Rate (optional): 138.2L/min
  
• Travel Speed (Low): 11.4km/h
  
• Travel Speed (High): 19.8km/h