Choosing a Farm-Sized Track Loader with a 4-in-1 Bucket and Teeth

[MikePhua]

The Role of Track Loaders in Agricultural Work
Track loaders have become indispensable on farms that require land clearing, fence line maintenance, grading, and material handling. Unlike wheeled loaders, track loaders offer superior traction on soft or uneven terrain, making them ideal for rural environments with clay, sand, or loam soils. Their ability to push, lift, dig, and grade with a single machine reduces the need for multiple pieces of equipment.
A 4-in-1 bucket adds even more versatility. This attachment combines a standard bucket, dozer blade, grapple, and clamshell into one tool. Farmers use it to scoop manure, level gravel, grab brush, and spread soil. When equipped with bolt-on or weld-on teeth, the bucket can also break through compacted ground and root systems, making it suitable for clearing overgrown fence rows or prepping new fields.
Understanding the 4-in-1 Bucket and Its Applications
The 4-in-1 bucket operates through hydraulic cylinders that open and close the clamshell. This allows the operator to:

• Scoop and dump like a standard bucket
  
• Open the jaws to grab logs, debris, or brush
  
• Use the rear edge for grading and back-dragging
  
• Spread material with precision by partially opening the bucket
  

When fitted with teeth, the bucket gains aggressive digging capability. Teeth are typically made of hardened steel and can be replaceable or welded. They improve penetration in rocky or root-bound soil and reduce wear on the bucket lip.
A rancher in Alberta retrofitted his loader’s 4-in-1 bucket with excavator-style teeth and used it to clear 3 miles of cedar and mesquite. The teeth allowed him to rip out stumps without switching to a dedicated root rake.
Recommended Loader Models for Farm Use
Farm-sized track loaders should balance power, weight, and ease of maintenance. Popular models include:

• Caterpillar 943
  • Rear engine for better visibility
    
  • Operating weight around 20,000 lbs
    
  • Known for fuel efficiency and mechanical simplicity
    
  • Ideal for heavy-duty clearing and grading
    
• Bobcat T870
  • Compact track loader with high flow hydraulics
    
  • Operating weight under 13,000 lbs
    
  • Compatible with a wide range of attachments
    
  • Excellent for fencing, trenching, and material handling
    
• Takeuchi TL150
  • Robust undercarriage and powerful hydraulics
    
  • Operating weight around 11,000 lbs
    
  • Known for reliability and smooth controls
    
  • Suitable for brush clearing and grading
    
• John Deere 333G
  

• Advanced controls and telematics
  
• Operating weight around 12,000 lbs
  
• High lift capacity and strong breakout force
  
• Good for multi-tasking with attachments
  

Each model supports quick attach systems for fast bucket changes. When selecting a loader, consider:

• Track width and ground pressure for soil type
  
• Hydraulic flow rate for operating 4-in-1 buckets
  
• Visibility and cab comfort for long workdays
  
• Service access and parts availability
  

A farmer in Texas chose a Bobcat T740 for its compact size and paired it with a Jenkins Iron & Steel 4-in-1 bucket. He used it to clear mesquite, spread gravel, and dig post holes with an auger—all from the same machine.
Inspection Tips When Buying Used
When purchasing a used track loader:

• Check sprocket teeth for sharpness and wear
  
• Inspect track chains and pins for play
  
• Lift the front end and check roller wobble
  
• Test hydraulic response and bucket articulation
  
• Look for leaks around cylinders and hoses
  
• Review service records and hours logged
  

Avoid machines with excessive play in the undercarriage or signs of frame cracking. Replacing tracks and rollers can cost thousands, so a thorough inspection is essential.
A restorer in Chile bought a used CAT 943 and discovered a worn equalizer bar. After replacing it and adjusting the track tension, the loader performed flawlessly for land clearing and gravel work.
Conclusion and Recommendations
A farm-sized track loader with a 4-in-1 bucket and teeth offers unmatched versatility for rural operations. Whether clearing brush, grading roads, or handling materials, this combination reduces labor and increases productivity.
Recommendations include:

• Choose a loader with hydraulic compatibility for 4-in-1 operation
  
• Select a bucket with reinforced sides and replaceable teeth
  
• Inspect undercarriage components before purchase
  
• Match machine weight and ground pressure to your soil type
  
• Invest in a quick attach system for multi-tool flexibility
  
• Maintain hydraulic seals and pivot points for long-term reliability
  

With the right machine and attachment pairing, farmers can tackle diverse tasks with confidence—turning a single loader into a year-round workhorse.