On Thursday, Bobcat disclosed its 5600 Toolcat utility work machine – part utility loader, pickup truck and attachment carrier – all wrapped up in a unit capable of handling a variety of jobsite conditions. The machine will be available in the first quarter of 2003.
The 4,400-pound Toolcat, which Bobcat says fits into its own compact product category called “utility work machines,” is designed around feedback the company received from equipment users in several markets, says Mike Henline, Bobcat utility products marketing manager. In addition to being versatile enough to work in several applications, the Toolcat is designed to meet customers’ need for a machine that “had four-wheel drive and could travel quickly from jobsite to jobsite,” Henline says. “It also has the ability to carry supplies and a co-worker.”
The dump box has a capacity of 2,000 pounds.
The front of the Toolcat features a 1,500-pound capacity loader arm equipped with the Bob-Tach attachment system, allowing the unit to use a variety of Bobcat attachments already on the market, including forks, augers and snow blades. In addition, a 72-inch mower attachment is being introduced with the Toolcat, which also fits on the company’s all-wheel-steer loaders.
Designed specifically for grounds maintenance, municipalities, schools, golf courses and landscape operations, the Toolcat has a rear box capacity of 2,000 pounds. Equipped with a hitch that has a trailer capacity, the rear of the machine can handle a variety of pull-type attachments, including small trailers.
Bobcat keep controls simple in the cab, including a steering wheel, drive and brake pedals and a joystick to control the loader/attachment functions.
With a tight 17-foot outside turn diameter, the machine is maneuverable in confine areas. The Toolcat’s 18 mph drive speed is achieved with a two-speed, hydrostatic drive system that can be shifted on the fly. An engine throttle lever operates independent of the drive pedal, which allows you to use maximum attachment hydraulic flow even at low travel speeds. The cab features a steering wheel, drive and brake pedals and a joystick for front loader functions.
