Bobcat 953: An Iconic Compact Track Loader for Versatile Jobsite Performance

[MikePhua]

Overview of the Bobcat 953
The Bobcat 953 is a compact track loader renowned for its durability, versatility, and ability to operate efficiently in rough terrain where wheeled loaders struggle. Manufactured in the late 1990s and early 2000s, this model has earned a reputation as a reliable workhorse for construction, landscaping, forestry, and agricultural applications.
Powered by a turbocharged 3-cylinder Kubota diesel engine producing around 72 horsepower, the 953 offers balanced power delivery and fuel efficiency. Its rubber tracks provide superior traction and reduced ground pressure, making it ideal for soft or uneven surfaces.
Key Features and Specifications

• Engine: Kubota V1505-T, 3-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine with approximately 72 hp.
  
• Operating Weight: Roughly 8,300 pounds (3,765 kg), allowing it to work in tighter spaces while maintaining stability.
  
• Bucket Capacity: Typically around 0.5 cubic yards, suitable for earthmoving, grading, and material handling.
  
• Hydraulic System: Provides smooth and responsive control over attachments, with auxiliary hydraulics for powering tools like augers, breakers, and grapples.
  
• Track System: Rubber tracks with sealed and lubricated rollers ensure durability and minimize soil disturbance.
  
• Operating Controls: Conventional hand and foot controls allow precise machine maneuvering, favored by experienced operators.
  

Common Uses and Applications

• Landscaping and Site Preparation: Moving soil, gravel, and mulch; grading; and clearing brush.
  
• Forestry: Equipped with specialized attachments like mulchers and grapples, the 953 excels in clearing underbrush and hauling logs.
  
• Agriculture: Handling feed, cleaning barns, or digging fence post holes with an auger attachment.
  
• Construction: Trenching, backfilling, and loading trucks on jobsites with restricted access.
  

Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Proper maintenance can extend the life of the Bobcat 953 significantly. Recommended practices include:

• Daily Inspections:
  • Check engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant levels.
    
  • Inspect tracks and undercarriage for wear, damage, or debris.
    
  • Look for hydraulic leaks at hoses and connections.
    
• Weekly Care:
  • Clean air filters and replace if heavily soiled.
    
  • Grease all fittings, especially pivot points and track rollers.
    
  • Inspect belts for cracking or glazing.
    
• Periodic Services:
  • Change engine oil and filters every 250 hours.
    
  • Replace hydraulic oil and filters every 1000 hours.
    
  • Adjust track tension to manufacturer specs to prevent premature wear.
    

Troubleshooting Common Issues
Operators have reported several common issues and their typical solutions:

• Track Tension Problems: Loose tracks can derail; overly tight tracks cause excessive wear. Adjust tension using the grease fitting to set proper track sag.
  
• Hydraulic Leaks: Often from worn seals or damaged hoses. Regularly inspect and replace failing components promptly.
  
• Engine Starting Difficulties: May stem from dirty fuel filters or weak batteries. Ensuring clean fuel and good battery health prevents many start-up woes.
  
• Control Hesitation: Hydraulic system contamination or low fluid levels can cause sluggish controls. Regular fluid changes and filter maintenance are essential.
  

Real-World Case: Forestry Use in the Pacific Northwest
A forestry contractor in Oregon relied on a fleet of Bobcat 953 machines equipped with mulcher heads and grapple attachments. The 953’s low ground pressure minimized damage to sensitive forest floors, an important environmental consideration. Operators praised the machine’s agility in tight stands of timber and appreciated the responsive hydraulics for precise control. Despite the rugged use, diligent maintenance extended machine life beyond 8,000 hours.
Terminology and Technical Notes

• Operating Weight: Total weight of the machine including standard equipment and full fluids.
  
• Hydraulic Flow Rate: Volume of hydraulic fluid the system delivers, affecting attachment speed and power.
  
• Track Sag: The amount of slack or looseness in the track; proper adjustment is critical for performance and longevity.
  
• Auxiliary Hydraulics: Hydraulic lines and controls dedicated to powering attachments.
  
• Turbocharged Engine: An engine with a forced induction system that increases power and efficiency.
  

Upgrades and Popular Attachments
Owners often equip the 953 with various attachments to expand its versatility:

• Augers: For drilling holes in soil or ice, useful in fencing or landscaping.
  
• Brush Cutters / Mulchers: For clearing dense vegetation and small trees.
  
• Backhoes: Adding digging capability for trenching or excavation.
  
• Grapples: For handling logs, debris, and scrap materials.
  
• Snow Blowers and Plows: For winter maintenance applications.
  

Operator Tips for Optimal Use

• Smooth Controls: Avoid jerky movements to reduce wear on hydraulic components and attachments.
  
• Track Maintenance: Regularly clean undercarriage to prevent buildup of mud and debris.
  
• Attachment Care: Inspect and maintain attachment connections and hydraulic lines.
  
• Balanced Loads: Avoid overloading the bucket or attachments to maintain machine stability.
  

Conclusion
The Bobcat 953 remains a proven compact track loader that combines power, maneuverability, and durability. Its versatility across diverse applications—from forestry to construction—makes it a valuable asset for many contractors. By adhering to maintenance best practices and understanding the machine’s operational nuances, owners can ensure the 953 performs reliably and efficiently for years to come.