8 hours ago
The Bob-Tach System and Its Role in Skid Steer Evolution
Bobcat’s Bob-Tach quick attach system revolutionized attachment interchangeability in the compact equipment industry. Introduced in the late 1980s and refined through the 2000s, it allowed operators to switch buckets, forks, grapples, and specialty tools without leaving the cab. The system uses two locking levers that engage pins into the attachment frame, secured by spring-loaded mechanisms. Over time, rust, wear, and mechanical fatigue can make these levers difficult to operate, prompting owners to seek replacements or upgrades.
Bobcat Company, founded in North Dakota in 1947, became synonymous with skid steer innovation. By the mid-2000s, Bobcat had sold over 750,000 machines globally, with the S220 and 763G among the most popular mid-frame models. The S220, introduced in 2002, featured a turbocharged diesel engine and high-flow hydraulics, while the 763G, released in the late 1990s, was known for its mechanical simplicity and reliability.
Core Specifications
Owners often ask whether the Bob-Tach assembly from a newer model like the 2009 S220 can be retrofitted onto an older unit such as the 2001 763G. While both machines use similar attachment geometry, there are subtle differences in frame width, pin spacing, and lever design. The S220’s Bob-Tach may include reinforced lever arms and updated spring tension, which can improve usability.
In most cases, the Bob-Tach assembly from an S220 will physically fit the 763G, but minor modifications may be required. These include:
In Alberta, a contractor salvaged a Bob-Tach from a fire-damaged S220 and installed it on his aging 763G. The levers were smoother and required less force, but the mounting holes were slightly offset. He fabricated a pair of steel shims and drilled new bolt holes to secure the assembly. After 200 hours of use, the retrofit remained solid, and he reported faster attachment changes and reduced operator fatigue.
Inspection and Retrofit Guidelines
Swapping a Bob-Tach assembly from a newer Bobcat like the S220 onto an older 763G is feasible with minor adaptation. The improved lever design and spring tension can enhance usability, especially when original components are rusted or stiff. By measuring carefully and preparing for small modifications, owners can extend the life of their machines and improve attachment efficiency. In skid steer work, every second counts—and every lever should move like it means business.
Bobcat’s Bob-Tach quick attach system revolutionized attachment interchangeability in the compact equipment industry. Introduced in the late 1980s and refined through the 2000s, it allowed operators to switch buckets, forks, grapples, and specialty tools without leaving the cab. The system uses two locking levers that engage pins into the attachment frame, secured by spring-loaded mechanisms. Over time, rust, wear, and mechanical fatigue can make these levers difficult to operate, prompting owners to seek replacements or upgrades.
Bobcat Company, founded in North Dakota in 1947, became synonymous with skid steer innovation. By the mid-2000s, Bobcat had sold over 750,000 machines globally, with the S220 and 763G among the most popular mid-frame models. The S220, introduced in 2002, featured a turbocharged diesel engine and high-flow hydraulics, while the 763G, released in the late 1990s, was known for its mechanical simplicity and reliability.
Core Specifications
- S220: Turbocharged, ~75 hp, high-flow hydraulics, vertical lift
- 763G: Naturally aspirated, ~46 hp, standard flow, radial lift
- Bob-Tach width: ~44 inches (varies slightly by model)
- Lever mechanism: Dual spring-loaded handles with locking pins
- Attachment interface: ISO 24410 standard (post-2000 models)
- Bob-Tach: Bobcat’s proprietary quick attach system for skid steer attachments.
- Quick-Tach: A general term for quick attachment systems, often used interchangeably with Bob-Tach.
- Lever Assembly: The handle and linkage used to engage and disengage the locking pins.
- Burned Unit: A machine damaged by fire, often salvaged for parts.
Owners often ask whether the Bob-Tach assembly from a newer model like the 2009 S220 can be retrofitted onto an older unit such as the 2001 763G. While both machines use similar attachment geometry, there are subtle differences in frame width, pin spacing, and lever design. The S220’s Bob-Tach may include reinforced lever arms and updated spring tension, which can improve usability.
In most cases, the Bob-Tach assembly from an S220 will physically fit the 763G, but minor modifications may be required. These include:
- Shimming the mounting points to match frame contour
- Replacing or adapting hydraulic couplers if integrated
- Adjusting lever linkage to ensure full pin engagement
- Verifying pin diameter and spacing against attachment specs
In Alberta, a contractor salvaged a Bob-Tach from a fire-damaged S220 and installed it on his aging 763G. The levers were smoother and required less force, but the mounting holes were slightly offset. He fabricated a pair of steel shims and drilled new bolt holes to secure the assembly. After 200 hours of use, the retrofit remained solid, and he reported faster attachment changes and reduced operator fatigue.
Inspection and Retrofit Guidelines
- Measure pin spacing and frame width before purchase
- Inspect lever springs and locking pins for corrosion or fatigue
- Use anti-seize compound on pivot points during installation
- Test attachment engagement with multiple tools before field use
- Replace worn bushings and add grease fittings if absent
- Source Bob-Tach assemblies from machines with similar lift geometry
- Avoid assemblies from severely warped or heat-damaged frames
- Keep spare lever springs and pins in inventory
- Consider upgrading to hydraulic Bob-Tach if budget allows
- Document retrofit dimensions and part numbers for future reference
- Lubricate lever pivots monthly
- Clean locking pins and inspect for burrs
- Replace springs every 1,000 hours or if tension weakens
- Avoid forcing levers; use penetrating oil if seized
- Store attachments on level ground to prevent misalignment
Swapping a Bob-Tach assembly from a newer Bobcat like the S220 onto an older 763G is feasible with minor adaptation. The improved lever design and spring tension can enhance usability, especially when original components are rusted or stiff. By measuring carefully and preparing for small modifications, owners can extend the life of their machines and improve attachment efficiency. In skid steer work, every second counts—and every lever should move like it means business.
