Dec 10, 2002 12:00 PM, Karen McMahon

Combine a skid steer loader with a utility vehicle and you get a Toolcat. Bobcat just introduced the 5600 Toolcat as the first in its new line of equipment called “utility work machines,” which look like skid-steer loaders with utility vehicle beds on the back.

The Toolcat offers considerably more versatility than a skid-steer loader. Equipped with a 44-hp Kubota engine, the Toolcat features all-wheel steering and 4-wd. The vehicle maneuvers well in all conditions, from mud and snow to turf and grass. Its tight 17-ft. outside turn diameter still makes it highly maneuverable in confined areas.

The new vehicle cruises at 18 mph with a two-speed hydrostatic drive system that can be shifted on the fly. The suspension system allows flex and axle oscillation to help increase pushing force and the use of implements.

Customer feedback. The Toolcat line of vehicles represents three years of planning and development at the West Fargo, ND, company. Bobcat officials say they designed the unique vehicle after customers asked for a more versatile skid-steer loader that could handle several jobs, such as mowing, snow removal, ground leveling, lifting pallets, fencing, hauling supplies and carrying a passenger. They also wanted 4-wd and faster ground speeds.

“The design and functionality of the Toolcat work machine is based on the feedback we got from compact equipment users in several markets,” says Mike Henline, Bobcat utility products marketing manager. “The multi-attachment versatility of the Toolcat machine will make it ideal for many different markets.”

Implements. A hydraulic system that provides 17 gpm and 3000 psi of auxiliary hydraulic flow runs a variety of attachments, including a mower, box blade, snow blower, auger, utility grapple and trencher. The Bob-Tach attachment change system makes switching attachments easy.

In the back, the Toolcat’s box will hold 2,000 lbs. and a 2-in. receiver hitch to pull a trailer.

The cab has room for a passenger and features controls found in utility vehicles such as a speedometer, cruise control, steering wheel, joystick for the loader, and drive and brake pedals. The hydrostatic dynamic braking system automatically provides stopping power to all four wheels.

Price: $30,000. Contact Bobcat Co., Dept. FIN, 250 E. Beaton, Dr., West Fargo, ND 58078-6000, 701/241-8700, or visit www.bobcat.com/toolcat or www.freeproductinfo.net/fin.

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