Bobcat 843 Breaker Attachment: A Powerful Tool for Demolition and Construction

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat 843 is a popular skid-steer loader that has earned its reputation for versatility and performance in various construction, landscaping, and demolition tasks. One of the most valuable attachments for this machine is the hydraulic breaker, which transforms the 843 into a powerful tool for breaking concrete, asphalt, and other hard surfaces. This article delves into the Bobcat 843 breaker attachment, its functionality, key considerations, and tips for maintenance and troubleshooting.
Overview of the Bobcat 843 Skid-Steer Loader
The Bobcat 843 is a mid-sized skid-steer loader that was produced by Bobcat Company in the early 1990s. Known for its rugged design, powerful hydraulics, and ease of operation, the 843 became a popular choice for contractors and operators looking for a versatile machine capable of handling a variety of attachments.
The 843 is equipped with a 46-horsepower engine, providing adequate power for its size. It has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of around 1,300 pounds, making it capable of lifting a variety of materials and performing demanding tasks. The compact size of the 843 allows it to operate in tight spaces, making it ideal for urban construction sites, landscaping projects, and demolition work.
The Bobcat 843 is designed to work with a range of attachments, such as buckets, augers, grapples, and breakers. Among these, the breaker attachment is particularly valued for its ability to perform heavy-duty demolition tasks like breaking through concrete and asphalt, making it an essential tool in construction and roadwork projects.
Functionality of the Bobcat 843 Breaker Attachment
The breaker attachment for the Bobcat 843 is a hydraulic-powered tool that uses high-frequency impacts to break up hard materials. It functions similarly to a jackhammer but with the added benefit of being mounted on a skid-steer loader, allowing for more precise control and greater maneuverability.

1. Hydraulic Operation
   The breaker is powered by the hydraulic system of the Bobcat 843, which provides the energy necessary to drive the hammering mechanism. The hydraulic fluid flows through the attachment, creating pressure that activates the piston inside the breaker. This piston delivers rapid, forceful blows to the material, effectively breaking it apart. The impact force can be adjusted depending on the task at hand, allowing operators to control the intensity of the strikes.
   
2. Impact Force and Efficiency
   The Bobcat 843 breaker attachment is designed to deliver high-impact blows, making it highly effective for breaking concrete, asphalt, and other hard surfaces. It can handle a variety of demolition tasks, from breaking up old pavement to cracking foundations and removing heavy materials.
   • Impact Energy: The impact energy produced by the breaker can range from 300 to 1,000 foot-pounds, depending on the model and the hydraulic pressure applied.
     
   • Frequency: The breaker typically operates at a frequency of 400 to 1,200 blows per minute (bpm), allowing it to efficiently break through tough materials.
     
3. Versatility
   The breaker attachment is highly versatile and can be used in a range of environments, including demolition sites, road repair projects, and utility work. Whether the task involves breaking up concrete slabs, busting through rock, or demolishing old buildings, the breaker attachment can handle it with ease. Its ability to operate in confined spaces, thanks to the compact size of the Bobcat 843, makes it ideal for urban construction or renovation projects.
   

Advantages of Using the Bobcat 843 Breaker Attachment
The Bobcat 843 breaker attachment offers several key benefits, making it an essential tool for many construction and demolition tasks. Some of the primary advantages include:

1. Enhanced Efficiency
   The breaker attachment allows for faster and more efficient demolition work. Rather than relying on manual labor or traditional tools like sledgehammers and jackhammers, the hydraulic breaker enables operators to break large sections of material with minimal effort, reducing time and labor costs.
   
2. Improved Precision
   The ability to control the Bobcat 843 skid-steer loader with a hydraulic breaker attachment allows operators to work with greater precision. This is especially important when working in tight or congested areas where precise control is necessary to avoid damaging surrounding structures or utilities.
   
3. Reduced Operator Fatigue
   Using a hydraulic breaker attachment reduces operator fatigue, as it eliminates the need for physically demanding manual labor. Operators can work longer hours without the physical strain associated with handheld tools, improving productivity and reducing the risk of injury.
   
4. Versatility Across Various Tasks
   The Bobcat 843 can easily switch between different attachments, making it a versatile tool for various applications. The breaker attachment is no exception, as it can be used for a variety of tasks, from road construction to demolition and site preparation. This versatility makes the 843 an essential machine for contractors who need to complete multiple types of work on a single job site.
   

Common Applications for the Bobcat 843 Breaker Attachment
The Bobcat 843 with the breaker attachment is highly effective for a range of construction and demolition tasks. Some of the most common applications include:

1. Breaking Concrete and Asphalt
   One of the primary uses for the breaker attachment is to break up concrete and asphalt, especially during road construction and repair. The high-impact force allows operators to quickly remove old pavement, making way for new road surfaces.
   
2. Demolition Work
   The breaker attachment is commonly used in building demolition. It can break through walls, foundations, and other structural elements with ease, speeding up the demolition process.
   
3. Utility Excavation
   For utility workers, the breaker attachment is a valuable tool for breaking through hard materials like concrete or asphalt when accessing underground utilities. It enables operators to work efficiently and without the need for manual labor or additional equipment.
   
4. Site Preparation
   During site preparation, the breaker can be used to remove old concrete slabs or break down boulders and other obstacles that may be in the way of new construction. Its ability to break hard surfaces quickly makes it a vital tool for getting the job done in a timely manner.
   

Maintenance and Troubleshooting for the Bobcat 843 Breaker Attachment
To keep the Bobcat 843 breaker attachment working efficiently, regular maintenance and care are essential. Here are some important maintenance tips and troubleshooting advice:

1. Regular Inspections
   Regularly inspect the breaker for signs of wear, such as cracks or damage to the housing or piston. Ensure that the hydraulic connections are tight and free of leaks. Check the seals, as worn seals can cause hydraulic fluid to leak, affecting the performance of the breaker.
   
2. Lubrication
   Proper lubrication is essential for ensuring smooth operation. Apply grease to the breaker’s moving parts according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This helps to prevent excessive wear and ensures that the breaker operates efficiently.
   
3. Hydraulic Fluid Maintenance
   Ensure that the hydraulic system of the Bobcat 843 is regularly checked and maintained. Low or dirty hydraulic fluid can impact the performance of the breaker. Replace the hydraulic fluid and filter as needed to maintain the hydraulic system’s efficiency.
   
4. Troubleshooting Common Issues
   • Breaker Not Operating Properly: If the breaker is not operating with the usual impact force, it may be a sign of low hydraulic pressure, air in the system, or a blockage in the hydraulic lines.
     
   • Excessive Vibration or Noise: If the breaker produces unusual vibrations or noise, inspect the breaker for any loose or damaged components. Check the hydraulic pump and lines for leaks or issues with pressure.
     

Conclusion
The Bobcat 843 with a breaker attachment is a powerful combination for any construction or demolition project. Its ability to efficiently break concrete, asphalt, and other tough materials makes it an invaluable tool for contractors. With the right maintenance and care, the Bobcat 843 can continue to deliver reliable performance, enhancing productivity while reducing the physical strain on operators. Whether it's breaking through concrete slabs, demolishing old buildings, or preparing a site for new construction, the Bobcat 843 breaker attachment proves to be a highly effective and versatile tool for a wide range of applications.