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The Origins of the Bobcat 975
The Bobcat 975 was introduced during an era when compact equipment manufacturers were pushing the limits of what skid steers could do. Bobcat, founded in 1947 and credited with inventing the skid steer loader in the late 1950s, had by the 1980s become a dominant force in compact construction machinery. The 975 was one of the largest skid steers ever produced by Bobcat, designed for heavy-duty applications that required more lifting capacity, reach, and stability than standard models.
With its imposing frame and high ground clearance, the 975 was built to handle oversized attachments and demanding tasks such as tree shearing, engine lifting, and material handling in industrial yards. It was not a mass-market machine but rather a specialized tool for contractors and mechanics who needed brute strength in a compact footprint.
Specifications and Performance
The Bobcat 975 featured:
Comparison to Other Bobcat Models
When compared to more common models like the Bobcat 250 or 300 series, the 975 felt like operating a two-story house. Its size and weight dwarfed the compact agility of smaller units, but it compensated with raw lifting power and durability. The 963, another large Bobcat model, was already considered massive by most operators—but the 975 and its sibling, the 980, pushed the envelope even further.
The 1080B, often mistaken for the 975, shared many components but included planetary drives at the wheels, enhancing torque delivery and reducing wear during heavy lifting. These machines were often used in shops to move engines, transmissions, and other large components with ease.
Field Use and Operator Stories
A mechanic in Georgia used his 1080B with a tree shear attachment to cut and carry 16-inch diameter trees. He also relied on it to move tractor engines and transmissions around his shop, noting that the machine’s stability and lifting power made it indispensable. Another operator in Kansas described driving the 975 as a surreal experience—like piloting a mobile fortress compared to the nimble 250s he used daily.
Despite its size, the 975 retained the maneuverability of a skid steer, allowing it to operate in tight spaces where wheel loaders or telehandlers might struggle. Its hydraulic system was robust enough to run high-demand attachments without overheating or stalling.
Maintenance and Longevity
The 975’s rugged build translated into long service life, especially when maintained properly. Key maintenance points included:
Market Presence and Collector Interest
While the 975 was never a high-volume seller, it has gained a cult following among equipment enthusiasts and collectors. Its rarity and size make it a conversation piece at equipment shows and auctions. In recent years, restored units have fetched premium prices, especially when paired with original attachments or documentation.
In 2023, a fully restored Bobcat 975 was featured at a machinery expo in Minnesota, drawing attention from contractors and historians alike. The machine was used to demonstrate tree shearing and engine lifting, showcasing its versatility and enduring power.
Conclusion
The Bobcat 975 stands as a testament to the brand’s willingness to innovate beyond the compact segment. With its massive frame, powerful hydraulics, and unique drive system, it carved out a niche among operators who needed more than a standard skid steer could offer. Though rare today, the 975 remains a symbol of industrial strength and mechanical ingenuity—a machine that could shear trees, lift engines, and still turn on a dime.
The Bobcat 975 was introduced during an era when compact equipment manufacturers were pushing the limits of what skid steers could do. Bobcat, founded in 1947 and credited with inventing the skid steer loader in the late 1950s, had by the 1980s become a dominant force in compact construction machinery. The 975 was one of the largest skid steers ever produced by Bobcat, designed for heavy-duty applications that required more lifting capacity, reach, and stability than standard models.
With its imposing frame and high ground clearance, the 975 was built to handle oversized attachments and demanding tasks such as tree shearing, engine lifting, and material handling in industrial yards. It was not a mass-market machine but rather a specialized tool for contractors and mechanics who needed brute strength in a compact footprint.
Specifications and Performance
The Bobcat 975 featured:
- Operating weight exceeding 9,000 pounds
- Rated operating capacity around 3,000 pounds
- Hydraulic flow capable of powering demanding attachments
- Wide stance and long wheelbase for stability
- High-lift arms suitable for loading tall trucks and handling bulky loads
Comparison to Other Bobcat Models
When compared to more common models like the Bobcat 250 or 300 series, the 975 felt like operating a two-story house. Its size and weight dwarfed the compact agility of smaller units, but it compensated with raw lifting power and durability. The 963, another large Bobcat model, was already considered massive by most operators—but the 975 and its sibling, the 980, pushed the envelope even further.
The 1080B, often mistaken for the 975, shared many components but included planetary drives at the wheels, enhancing torque delivery and reducing wear during heavy lifting. These machines were often used in shops to move engines, transmissions, and other large components with ease.
Field Use and Operator Stories
A mechanic in Georgia used his 1080B with a tree shear attachment to cut and carry 16-inch diameter trees. He also relied on it to move tractor engines and transmissions around his shop, noting that the machine’s stability and lifting power made it indispensable. Another operator in Kansas described driving the 975 as a surreal experience—like piloting a mobile fortress compared to the nimble 250s he used daily.
Despite its size, the 975 retained the maneuverability of a skid steer, allowing it to operate in tight spaces where wheel loaders or telehandlers might struggle. Its hydraulic system was robust enough to run high-demand attachments without overheating or stalling.
Maintenance and Longevity
The 975’s rugged build translated into long service life, especially when maintained properly. Key maintenance points included:
- Regular hydraulic filter changes to prevent contamination
- Inspection of planetary drives for wear and lubrication
- Monitoring tire pressure and tread wear due to the machine’s weight
- Greasing pivot points and lift arm bushings to prevent binding
Market Presence and Collector Interest
While the 975 was never a high-volume seller, it has gained a cult following among equipment enthusiasts and collectors. Its rarity and size make it a conversation piece at equipment shows and auctions. In recent years, restored units have fetched premium prices, especially when paired with original attachments or documentation.
In 2023, a fully restored Bobcat 975 was featured at a machinery expo in Minnesota, drawing attention from contractors and historians alike. The machine was used to demonstrate tree shearing and engine lifting, showcasing its versatility and enduring power.
Conclusion
The Bobcat 975 stands as a testament to the brand’s willingness to innovate beyond the compact segment. With its massive frame, powerful hydraulics, and unique drive system, it carved out a niche among operators who needed more than a standard skid steer could offer. Though rare today, the 975 remains a symbol of industrial strength and mechanical ingenuity—a machine that could shear trees, lift engines, and still turn on a dime.
