Adapting a Bobcat Dozer 80 Blade to a Terex Skid Steer Loader

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat Dozer 80 and Its Versatility
The Bobcat Dozer 80 is a hydraulically controlled dozer blade attachment designed for compact loaders. With a working width of approximately 80 inches and full six-way blade articulation, it allows operators to perform grading, leveling, backfilling, and light dozing tasks with precision. Originally engineered for Bobcat skid steers and compact track loaders, the Dozer 80 integrates with the loader’s auxiliary hydraulics and quick-attach system.
Bobcat, founded in North Dakota in the 1940s, revolutionized compact equipment with its skid steer loader design. The Dozer 80 blade became a popular accessory in the 2000s, especially among landscapers and utility contractors who needed fine grading capability without investing in a dedicated dozer.
Terminology Clarification

• Quick-attach system: A standardized mounting interface that allows rapid swapping of attachments on skid steers.
  
• Auxiliary hydraulics: Additional hydraulic circuits used to power attachments beyond the loader arms.
  
• Six-way blade: A dozer blade capable of up/down, left/right angle, and tilt adjustments.
  
• Solenoid valve: An electrically actuated valve used to control hydraulic flow to specific functions.
  

Compatibility Challenges with Terex Loaders
Terex skid steers, while robust and capable, often use slightly different quick-attach geometries and hydraulic coupler placements compared to Bobcat machines. This can lead to several integration issues when attempting to mount a Bobcat Dozer 80 blade:

• Mounting plate misalignment
  
• Hydraulic coupler incompatibility
  
• Electrical connector mismatch for solenoid control
  
• Frame clearance issues during blade tilt or angle
  

A contractor in Pennsylvania attempted to mount a Dozer 80 on his Terex PT70 and found that the blade’s tilt cylinders contacted the loader arms during full articulation. He resolved the issue by fabricating 2-inch offset brackets and repositioning the blade mount.
Hydraulic and Electrical Integration
The Dozer 80 requires two hydraulic circuits: one for blade lift and one for angle/tilt control. These are typically managed via a solenoid valve block mounted on the blade, which receives 12V signals from the loader’s cab switches.
Steps for integration:

• Verify hydraulic flow rate (minimum 12 GPM recommended)
  
• Install flat-face couplers compatible with Terex auxiliary ports
  
• Route electrical wires from the solenoid block to the cab
  
• Use a toggle switch or joystick button to control blade functions
  
• Fuse the circuit and protect wires with loom tubing
  

A technician in Alberta added a relay and fuse block to his Terex loader to power the Dozer 80’s solenoids. He used a weatherproof rocker switch mounted on the dash and labeled each function for clarity.
Fabrication and Mounting Solutions
If the quick-attach system does not align perfectly, fabrication may be necessary. Options include:

• Welding adapter plates to match pin spacing
  
• Using bolt-on conversion brackets
  
• Reinforcing the blade frame to handle offset loads
  
• Adding gussets to prevent flexing during tilt operations
  

Material recommendations:

• Use ⅜-inch or thicker steel for adapter plates
  
• Grade 8 bolts for all structural connections
  
• Powder coat or paint exposed metal to prevent corrosion
  

A fabricator in Georgia built a universal adapter for his Terex loader using laser-cut steel and slotted holes for fine adjustment. The blade mounted securely and operated without interference.
Operational Considerations and Safety
Once mounted, the Dozer 80 blade adds significant length and weight to the loader. Operators should:

• Avoid aggressive turns at full blade angle
  
• Monitor hydraulic temperature during extended use
  
• Use counterweights if necessary to maintain balance
  
• Keep blade pins greased and inspect for wear monthly
  

Safety tips:

• Disconnect hydraulic lines before servicing the blade
  
• Use lockout switches when working near solenoids
  
• Avoid operating on steep slopes with blade fully angled
  
• Train operators on blade articulation limits and response
  

A crew in Colorado added reflective tape and LED markers to their Dozer 80 blade after a near miss during night grading. Visibility improved, and incidents dropped to zero.
Conclusion
Adapting a Bobcat Dozer 80 blade to a Terex skid steer loader is entirely feasible with thoughtful planning and minor fabrication. By addressing mounting geometry, hydraulic flow, and electrical control, operators can unlock the full grading potential of their machines. Whether shaping driveways, backfilling trenches, or leveling pads, this combination offers precision and power in a compact footprint. With proper integration and routine inspection, the blade becomes a seamless extension of the loader’s capabilities.