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Introduction to Bobcat S185 and Backhoe Attachments
The Bobcat S185 skid-steer loader is a compact, highly maneuverable machine popular among small contractors and landowners for its versatility. Introduced in the early 2000s, the S185 has a rated operating capacity of 1,850 lbs, 56 hp from a liquid-cooled diesel engine, and can be fitted with a broad range of attachments, most notably the 709 backhoe attachment. Bobcat’s backhoe attachments are engineered for compatibility, reliability, and straightforward installation, allowing a loader to perform trenching, digging, and material handling tasks typically reserved for standalone excavators.
Backhoe Attachment Technical Profile
Buying a used Bobcat 709 backhoe attachment for $4,000 presents key advantages for property owners:
Performance and Practical Limitations
While the 709 attachment is highly effective for light to moderate trenching and digging in single-operator environments, it is inherently less productive than a purpose-built excavator or full backhoe, especially in rocky, root-laden, or frozen ground. Digging speed and force are limited by the loader’s hydraulic capacity and backhoe subframe structure. Rocky mountain soils, as described in the use case, may slow trencher attachments and require patience for large boulders.
Attachments also require the loader to be parked and stabilized; frequent repositioning is needed for long trenches. Some tasks—deep pit excavation, large-diameter boulder removal—may stretch the attachment’s practical limits.
Operation and Maintenance Recommendations
A ranch owner in Colorado faced similar needs: foundation earthmoving, septic tests, and seasonal trenching. Investing in a used Bobcat backhoe attachment, he completed major groundwork over two years at his own pace, then sold the attachment to a neighbor—recouping 80% of the original expense while saving time and travel compared to renting. The flexibility enabled slower work during poor weather and allowed immediate response to new site requirements.
Glossary of Terms
For landowners balancing cost, project time, and logistics, a used Bobcat backhoe attachment often delivers the best value and flexibility for multi-stage building or maintenance. Renting remains advantageous for high-productivity demand or occasional specialized jobs, but owning the attachment provides personal control over pace and budget—boosting both project satisfaction and equipment return on investment.
The Bobcat S185 skid-steer loader is a compact, highly maneuverable machine popular among small contractors and landowners for its versatility. Introduced in the early 2000s, the S185 has a rated operating capacity of 1,850 lbs, 56 hp from a liquid-cooled diesel engine, and can be fitted with a broad range of attachments, most notably the 709 backhoe attachment. Bobcat’s backhoe attachments are engineered for compatibility, reliability, and straightforward installation, allowing a loader to perform trenching, digging, and material handling tasks typically reserved for standalone excavators.
Backhoe Attachment Technical Profile
- Digging Depth: 9 ft to 11 ft, depending on model
- Bucket Width: 9 to 24 inches, interchangeable via quick coupler
- Hydraulic Flow: Utilizes S185 auxiliary hydraulics, ensuring efficient performance
- Weight: Lightweight relative to standalone excavator, easier for transport and mounting
- Swing Arc: Usually 180 degrees for optimal digging flexibility
Buying a used Bobcat 709 backhoe attachment for $4,000 presents key advantages for property owners:
- Upfront investment can be partially or fully recovered by reselling the attachment after project completion
- Eliminates multiple rental trips and fees, especially valuable for remote or extended jobs where rental pickup/delivery is inconvenient or costly
- Offers maximum schedule flexibility—work can be performed whenever conditions and personal time allow
- Enables multi-phase projects (grading, trenching, septic, utility repair) to proceed at the owner’s pace without repeated equipment changes
Performance and Practical Limitations
While the 709 attachment is highly effective for light to moderate trenching and digging in single-operator environments, it is inherently less productive than a purpose-built excavator or full backhoe, especially in rocky, root-laden, or frozen ground. Digging speed and force are limited by the loader’s hydraulic capacity and backhoe subframe structure. Rocky mountain soils, as described in the use case, may slow trencher attachments and require patience for large boulders.
Attachments also require the loader to be parked and stabilized; frequent repositioning is needed for long trenches. Some tasks—deep pit excavation, large-diameter boulder removal—may stretch the attachment’s practical limits.
Operation and Maintenance Recommendations
- Pair the S185 and 709 backhoe with stabilizer kits to keep the loader steady during digging
- Inspect bucket teeth, pins, and hydraulic lines before each use to avoid downtime
- If encountering excessive rock, use an excavator for those elements and the S185 for lighter work
- Maintain detailed records of hours used; this facilitates better resale value and shows care for the equipment
- Clean and store the backhoe indoors when not in use to maximize resale potential
A ranch owner in Colorado faced similar needs: foundation earthmoving, septic tests, and seasonal trenching. Investing in a used Bobcat backhoe attachment, he completed major groundwork over two years at his own pace, then sold the attachment to a neighbor—recouping 80% of the original expense while saving time and travel compared to renting. The flexibility enabled slower work during poor weather and allowed immediate response to new site requirements.
Glossary of Terms
- Skid Steer Loader: A four-wheel or tracked loader that turns via differential wheel speed, extremely maneuverable in tight areas
- Backhoe Attachment: An excavator arm and bucket add-on to a loader, used for trenching and digging
- Rental Equipment: Machines hired temporarily, requiring contracts and time-based fees
- Auxiliary Hydraulics: Additional hydraulic lines used to power attachments
- Quick Coupler: Device allowing rapid swapping of buckets on a backhoe or excavator arm
For landowners balancing cost, project time, and logistics, a used Bobcat backhoe attachment often delivers the best value and flexibility for multi-stage building or maintenance. Renting remains advantageous for high-productivity demand or occasional specialized jobs, but owning the attachment provides personal control over pace and budget—boosting both project satisfaction and equipment return on investment.
