Buying a Bobcat T190 Compact Track Loader

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat T190 compact track loader is a popular choice for those seeking a versatile, powerful, and reliable machine suitable for a wide range of applications including construction, landscaping, agriculture, and material handling. Understanding the technical specifications, capabilities, and cost factors is crucial for anyone looking to invest in this machine.
Key Specifications and Performance

• Engine: The T190 is powered by a 4-cylinder Kubota V2003T turbocharged diesel engine producing about 61 horsepower (45.5 kW) at 2800 RPM.
  
• Operating Weight: Approximately 7,612 to 7,775 pounds (3,453 kg), which enables excellent stability and traction, especially in soft or uneven terrain.
  
• Fuel Capacity: 28 gallons (106 liters), allowing for extended operational hours before refueling.
  
• Speed: It has a maximum travel speed of about 7.1 mph (11.4 km/h), suitable for efficient job site mobility.
  
• Lift and Tipping Capacity: Rated operating capacity is 1,900 lbs (862 kg), with a tipping load around 6,851 lbs (3,108 kg), balancing load handling and machine stability.
  
• Bucket and Attachments: Standard bucket capacity is about 0.52 cubic yards (0.4 m³). The machine supports multiple attachments like augers, breakers, and graders through quick couplers, enhancing versatility.
  

Dimensions and Maneuverability

• Width Over Tracks: Approximately 5.5 feet (1,676 mm), compact enough to access tight spaces on job sites.
  
• Length With Bucket: Close to 10.9 feet (3,310 mm); without bucket about 8.5 feet (2,584 mm).
  
• Height to Top of Cab: Around 6.4 feet (1,938 mm).
  
• Turning radius from center with bucket: Almost 79 inches (2,001 mm), enabling tight maneuvering in confined areas.
  

Hydraulic and Structural Specifications

• Hydraulic Pump Flow: Approximately 16.3 gallons per minute (61.7 liters/min), enabling fast and smooth operation of attachments.
  
• Relief Valve Pressure: About 3,300 psi (22,753 kPa), ensuring efficient force for lifting and digging.
  
• Track system includes 4 rollers per side, with track widths typically 12.6 inches (320 mm), supporting good ground contact and reduced soil compaction.
  

Applications
The Bobcat T190 excels in:

• Moving and loading materials such as dirt, sand, gravel, and debris.
  
• Landscaping projects including soil grading and planting preparation.
  
• Agricultural tasks like moving hay bales or feeding livestock.
  
• Construction site prep and cleanup.
  
• Snow removal armed with appropriate attachments.
  
• Specialized attachments enable use for drilling, breaking concrete, or grading.
  

Cost and Rental Options

• Purchase Price: Around $38,000 USD for a new or well-maintained used unit.
  
• Rental Costs: Approximately $300 per day, $150 for a half-day, or $1,200 per week, making it accessible for short-term projects.
  
• Maintenance Costs: Average operating maintenance costs estimated at roughly $4 per hour, with fuel consumption around 2 gallons per hour depending on workload.
  

Additional Recommendations for Buyers

• Verify machine history for used units, including hours, maintenance records, and any signs of wear or repair.
  
• Confirm inclusion of quick coupler and available attachment compatibility.
  
• Assess operator comfort features like cab visibility and control options.
  
• Consider warranty and dealer support in your region for parts and technical service.
  
• Compare with other models of similar size and power, such as the Bobcat T180 or T200, to ensure the right match for your needs.
  

Terminology

• Operating Weight: The total weight of the machine including standard equipment, fuel, fluids, and operator.
  
• Rated Operating Capacity: Maximum recommended load the machine can safely handle following ISO standards.
  
• Hydraulic Pump Flow: Volume of hydraulic fluid moved per minute, affecting how fast attachments operate.
  
• Tipping Load: The maximum load before the machine could lose stability and tip over.
  
• Quick Coupler: Mechanism for rapid changing of attachments without tools.
  

Small Story
A landscaping company in California purchased several Bobcat T190 loaders to improve their efficiency in tight, urban sites. The compact size combined with powerful hydraulics allowed quick switching between grading and material hauling. Their investment was justified as the loaders reduced labor time by 30%, and their fuel-efficient diesel engines helped lower operational costs significantly.
Summary List

• Engine: Kubota 4-cylinder, 61 hp turbocharged diesel.
  
• Operating weight: ~7,700 lbs.
  
• Fuel capacity: 28 gallons.
  
• Operating capacity: 1,900 lbs.
  
• Bucket size: 0.52 cubic yards.
  
• Speed: Max 7.1 mph.
  
• Applications: Construction, landscaping, agriculture, snow removal.
  
• Purchase price around $38,000; rental available.
  
• Maintenance approx. $4/hr; fuel usage ~2 gal/hr.
  

The Bobcat T190 remains a preferred compact loader for users who need power, versatility, and reliability without sacrificing maneuverability on diverse job sites.