Bobcat Co. introduced a new compact track loader 5-Link torsion suspension undercarriage, providing increased performance, operator comfort and serviceability.
M2-Series T870 compact track loaders are the first Bobcat loaders manufactured with the new 5-Link torsion suspension undercarriage.
The 5-Link torsion suspension undercarriage is designed with a new drive motor. Bobcat said the drive motor’s outer bearing is more durable because it receives continuous lubrication from oil within the loader’s hydraulic system.
A 15 percent increase in diameter to the drive shaft inside the gearbox also increases the component’s durability. The inner gear box reservoir housed within the new drive motor has two service ports for easier flushing and filling, the manufacturer said.
Bobcat lengthened the undercarriage’s rubber tracks to increase surface area and ground contact, which in turn provides better flotation and improving machine performance in soft ground conditions such as sand or mud.
Bobcat 5-Link torsion suspension undercarriages are designed with a solid cast spindle mount. This design eliminates welds and distributes stress across one seamless piece. An inner bar in the axle system is heat-treated for maximum strength and surrounded by four rubber cords.
The undercarriage’s dual flange front idlers are made with forged steel and are designed to withstand harsh operating conditions. The steel idlers guide and support the rubber tracks around the ends of the compact track loader’s undercarriage. An additional fifth link on the rear axle stabilizes the undercarriage to minimize machine rocking.
Additionally, a larger rear idler positioned further back within the undercarriage provides more surface area for less wear per rotation, increasing overall component life, as well as supplying more down force to the cutting edge.
A new feature of Bobcat compact track loader undercarriages is an automatic hydraulic track tensioning system, which automatically ensures the proper track tension without the use of a grease gun.
A horizontally mounted hydraulic track tension cylinder provides more room between the undercarriage components and the track for easier cleanout. Plus, the undercarriage is sloped on both sides to shed sand, dirt, mud and other material. Raised cutouts between the rollers allow for easier cleaning.
Photo: Bobcat
