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The Bobcat M Series skid steer loaders represent one of the most influential product lines in compact construction equipment. Introduced during the late 1960s and refined through the 1970s and 1980s, these machines helped establish Bobcat as a global leader in compact loaders. Their design emphasized durability, maneuverability, and versatility, making them indispensable for contractors, farmers, and municipalities.
Company Background
Bobcat originated in North Dakota in the late 1950s when two brothers developed a small front-end loader to meet the needs of turkey farmers. By 1960, the company had introduced the first skid steer loader, revolutionizing compact equipment. Through the 1970s and 1980s, Bobcat expanded internationally, and the M Series became a cornerstone of its product line. By the 1990s, Bobcat had sold hundreds of thousands of units worldwide, cementing its reputation for reliability and innovation.
Technical Parameters of M Series
The M Series included several models, each tailored to different workloads. Typical specifications included:
Like all equipment, the M Series faced challenges over time:
Contractors often recall the M Series as a “workhorse” that could handle jobs larger than its size suggested. In one Midwest construction company, an M600 model was used daily for over 20 years, only requiring a major overhaul once. Farmers in Europe adopted the M Series for barn cleaning and silage handling, praising its ability to maneuver in tight quarters. Municipalities in Canada used the machines for snow removal, proving their adaptability across climates.
Industry Impact
The M Series helped define the skid steer category. By the 1980s, Bobcat controlled a significant share of the global compact loader market, with sales exceeding 100,000 units. Competitors such as Case and John Deere later introduced similar machines, but Bobcat’s early dominance gave it a lasting advantage. The M Series also paved the way for the modern S Series and T Series loaders, which incorporate advanced hydraulics, electronic controls, and improved operator comfort.
Recommendations for Owners
Owners of surviving M Series machines can extend their lifespan with careful maintenance:
The Bobcat M Series was more than just a line of skid steer loaders; it was a turning point in compact equipment history. Its combination of rugged design, versatility, and affordability made it a global success. Even decades later, many M Series machines remain in operation, a testament to their engineering quality. The legacy of the M Series continues to influence modern Bobcat designs, ensuring that the brand remains synonymous with reliability and innovation in compact construction equipment.
Company Background
Bobcat originated in North Dakota in the late 1950s when two brothers developed a small front-end loader to meet the needs of turkey farmers. By 1960, the company had introduced the first skid steer loader, revolutionizing compact equipment. Through the 1970s and 1980s, Bobcat expanded internationally, and the M Series became a cornerstone of its product line. By the 1990s, Bobcat had sold hundreds of thousands of units worldwide, cementing its reputation for reliability and innovation.
Technical Parameters of M Series
The M Series included several models, each tailored to different workloads. Typical specifications included:
- Operating weight: 4,000 to 5,500 pounds depending on model
- Rated operating capacity: 1,200 to 1,700 pounds
- Engine power: 40 to 55 horsepower diesel engines
- Hydraulic flow: 15 to 18 gallons per minute
- Lift height: approximately 9 feet to hinge pin
- Compact width: around 5 feet, allowing access to tight spaces
- Skid Steer Loader: A compact machine with fixed wheels that turn by skidding, allowing tight maneuverability.
- Rated Operating Capacity: The maximum load the machine can safely carry without tipping.
- Hydraulic Flow: The volume of hydraulic fluid pumped per minute, determining attachment performance.
- Hinge Pin Height: The maximum vertical reach of the loader arms, critical for loading trucks or bins.
Like all equipment, the M Series faced challenges over time:
- Hydraulic leaks due to worn seals
- Engine wear from heavy use in dusty environments
- Electrical system corrosion in older models
- Limited operator comfort compared to modern machines
- Regular replacement of hydraulic hoses and seals
- Use of high-quality filters and scheduled engine maintenance
- Upgrading electrical wiring with modern replacements
- Installing aftermarket cab improvements for noise and vibration reduction
Contractors often recall the M Series as a “workhorse” that could handle jobs larger than its size suggested. In one Midwest construction company, an M600 model was used daily for over 20 years, only requiring a major overhaul once. Farmers in Europe adopted the M Series for barn cleaning and silage handling, praising its ability to maneuver in tight quarters. Municipalities in Canada used the machines for snow removal, proving their adaptability across climates.
Industry Impact
The M Series helped define the skid steer category. By the 1980s, Bobcat controlled a significant share of the global compact loader market, with sales exceeding 100,000 units. Competitors such as Case and John Deere later introduced similar machines, but Bobcat’s early dominance gave it a lasting advantage. The M Series also paved the way for the modern S Series and T Series loaders, which incorporate advanced hydraulics, electronic controls, and improved operator comfort.
Recommendations for Owners
Owners of surviving M Series machines can extend their lifespan with careful maintenance:
- Conduct hydraulic system inspections every 500 hours
- Replace filters and fluids on schedule to prevent contamination
- Retrofit modern attachments with proper hydraulic compatibility checks
- Store machines indoors to reduce corrosion and extend electrical system life
The Bobcat M Series was more than just a line of skid steer loaders; it was a turning point in compact equipment history. Its combination of rugged design, versatility, and affordability made it a global success. Even decades later, many M Series machines remain in operation, a testament to their engineering quality. The legacy of the M Series continues to influence modern Bobcat designs, ensuring that the brand remains synonymous with reliability and innovation in compact construction equipment.
