Rebuilding the Bobcat LR-6B Landscape Rake for Long-Term Performance

[MikePhua]

The LR-6B and Its Role in Site Preparation
The Bobcat LR-6B landscape rake is a hydraulically driven attachment designed for skid steers and compact loaders. Its primary function is to remove debris, level soil, and prepare surfaces for seeding, paving, or turf installation. With a working width of approximately 72 inches, the LR-6B uses rotating rake bars mounted on drive chains to comb through soil and collect rocks, roots, and other unwanted material into a removable bucket.
Originally manufactured under the Bobcat brand, many LR-series rakes were produced by Paladin/Bradco and rebranded for OEMs like Bobcat, Caterpillar, and John Deere. These units are known for their robust construction and modular design, allowing for field repairs and component replacement without specialized tools.
Drive Chain Wear and Tensioning Challenges
A common maintenance task on the LR-6B involves replacing the three drive chains that power the rake bars. These chains transmit torque from the hydraulic motor to the rotating bars, and over time, they stretch, wear, or snap under load. Proper tensioning is critical to prevent premature failure and ensure smooth operation.
Industry recommendations for roller chain slack typically fall between 1.5 to 2 inches of deflection at mid-span. However, tensioning must account for thermal expansion, load variation, and bearing wear. Some operators report needing to reverse the position of jam nuts on jack screws to maintain bearing alignment as components settle.
To achieve optimal tension:

• Measure chain slack with the rake bars stationary and the machine off
  
• Adjust jack screws evenly to prevent misalignment
  
• Use a torque wrench on bearing mounts to avoid overtightening
  
• Recheck tension after 10 hours of operation to account for initial stretch
  

Rake Bar Repair and Replacement Strategy
Rake bars are bolt-on components that experience bending and wear from repeated contact with rocks and hard soil. While new bars can cost upwards of $300 each, many operators opt to straighten bent bars and reuse them with new hardware. This approach is cost-effective but requires careful inspection to avoid fatigue cracks or misalignment.
Recommended steps:

• Heat bent bars with a torch to reduce brittleness before straightening
  
• Use a press or vise to reshape bars gradually
  
• Replace mounting bolts with grade 8 hardware and lock washers
  
• Inspect bar ends for wear that could affect debris collection
  

In one case, a contractor salvaged 80% of his rake bars by straightening them and replacing only the most deformed units. The rebuilt rake performed reliably for an entire season, saving over $2,000 in parts.
Sourcing Manuals and Cross-Referencing Models
Because many LR-series rakes were manufactured by Paladin/Bradco, service manuals for similar models like the RockHound 72B often provide accurate specifications and diagrams. The LR-6B is functionally equivalent to the RockHound 72B, sharing components such as chain drives, rake bar spacing, and hydraulic motor mounts.
Operators seeking documentation should:

• Search by both Bobcat and RockHound model numbers
  
• Compare exploded diagrams to verify part compatibility
  
• Use parts books to identify bearing sizes, seal types, and chain specs
  
• Cross-reference torque values and adjustment procedures
  

In Pennsylvania, a technician rebuilt his LR-6B using a RockHound manual and found that all critical dimensions matched. He noted that the rake’s performance improved after following the recommended chain tensioning and bearing preload procedures.
Preventive Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
To extend the life of the LR-6B landscape rake:

• Grease all bearings every 20 hours of use
  
• Inspect chains weekly for stretch and wear
  
• Clean debris from the rake housing after each job
  
• Replace worn seals and gaskets during off-season maintenance
  
• Store the attachment indoors to prevent rust and UV degradation
  

Some operators install chain tension indicators or use paint markers to track adjustment points. This helps monitor wear over time and prevents over-adjustment that could damage bearings or sprockets.
Manufacturer Background and Market Impact
Paladin Attachments, now part of Stanley Infrastructure, has produced thousands of landscape rakes under various brand names. Their modular design philosophy allows for shared components across models, simplifying inventory and service. Bobcat, founded in 1947, has long partnered with Paladin to offer branded attachments that meet the demands of compact equipment users.
The LR-6B remains a popular choice for contractors, municipalities, and landscapers due to its versatility and rebuildability. While newer models offer electronic monitoring and quick-change features, the LR-6B’s mechanical simplicity continues to appeal to operators who value hands-on control and field serviceability.
Conclusion
Rebuilding the Bobcat LR-6B landscape rake is a practical and rewarding task that restores functionality and extends the life of a valuable attachment. By understanding chain tensioning, rake bar repair, and cross-referencing manuals, operators can maintain peak performance without excessive cost. In the world of compact equipment, the LR-6B stands as a testament to durable design and the ingenuity of those who keep it working.