General Questions About Bobcat Compact Excavators

What is a compact excavator?

A compact excavator, or mini excavator, is a small, track-driven machine designed for digging, trenching, grading, and demolition work. It offers superior maneuverability and the ability to work in tight spaces where larger excavators cannot operate.

What are the benefits of using a Bobcat compact excavator?

Bobcat compact excavators provide several advantages, including:

• Compact size – Easily fits into tight workspaces and urban job sites.

• Powerful digging force – Stronger breakout force for excavation tasks.

• Zero or minimal tail swing – Allows for operation near walls and obstacles.

• Rubber tracks – Reduce ground disturbance and increase traction.

• Attachment versatility – Works with a wide range of Bobcat-approved attachments.

What industries use Bobcat compact excavators?

Bobcat compact excavators are used in:

• Construction – Trenching, site preparation, and foundation work.

• Landscaping – Digging ponds, grading land, and planting trees.

• Agriculture – Ditching, drainage, and material handling.

• Municipal Work – Utility maintenance, road repairs, and public works.

• Demolition – Breaking concrete and removing debris.

Choosing the Right Bobcat Compact Excavator

What Bobcat compact excavator models are available?

Bobcat offers a wide selection of compact excavators, including:

• Ultra-Compact Models: E10, E19 – Ideal for confined spaces and indoor work.

• Small Models: E26, E32 – Great for light-duty excavation and landscaping.

• Medium Models: E42, E50 – Balanced power and maneuverability for various applications.

• Large Compact Models: E60, E88 – Maximum digging depth and power for demanding tasks.

How do I choose the best Bobcat compact excavator for my needs?

Consider these key factors when selecting a compact excavator:

• Digging depth – Choose a model that meets your excavation requirements.

• Operating weight – Match the machine to your transport and lift capacity needs.

• Tail swing type – Zero tail swing for tight areas, minimal tail swing for added stability.

• Hydraulic capabilities – High-flow hydraulics support powerful attachments.

What is the difference between zero tail swing and conventional tail swing models?

• Zero tail swing models have no overhang beyond the tracks, allowing them to work next to walls or obstacles without risk of damage.

• Minimal tail swing models offer slightly more stability and lifting capacity while still being highly maneuverable.

Bobcat Compact Excavator Attachments

What attachments are available for Bobcat compact excavators?

Bobcat compact excavators can be equipped with various attachments to expand functionality, including:

• Buckets (Standard, Trenching, Grading, Heavy-Duty) for digging and material handling.

• Hydraulic Breakers for demolition and breaking concrete or rock.

• Augers for drilling post holes in landscaping and fencing projects.

• Grapples for picking up debris, logs, and brush.

• Compactors for compacting soil in construction projects.

• Trenchers for digging narrow trenches for utilities and irrigation.

How do I choose the right attachment for my Bobcat compact excavator?

Select attachments based on your primary tasks:

• Excavation: Buckets, trenchers, and grapples.

• Landscaping: Augers, soil conditioners, and grading buckets.

• Demolition: Hydraulic breakers and compactors.

Are Bobcat attachments interchangeable between different models?

Bobcat compact excavators use the X-Change™ mounting system, making it easy to swap attachments between compatible models. However, some high-flow hydraulic attachments require specific models with enhanced hydraulic systems.

Financing & Buying a Bobcat Compact Excavator

Where can I buy a Bobcat compact excavator?

Bobcat compact excavators are available at Bobcat GDN dealerships nationwide. Contact your nearest dealer for inventory, financing options, and special promotions.

Does Bobcat offer financing for compact excavators?

Yes! Bobcat Financial provides flexible financing solutions, including:

• Low-interest rate financing

• Lease-to-own programs

• Custom payment plans

Can I trade in my old machine for a new Bobcat compact excavator?

Yes! Bobcat GDN dealerships accept trade-ins. Visit a dealer for an equipment evaluation and trade-in value assessment.

Maintenance & Service

How often should I service my Bobcat compact excavator?

Routine maintenance ensures optimal performance and machine longevity. Follow these general guidelines:

• Daily: Inspect tracks, check fluid levels, and remove debris.

• Every 50 hours: Grease all fittings and inspect hydraulic hoses.

• Every 250 hours: Change engine oil and filters.

• Every 500 hours: Replace hydraulic and fuel filters.

What type of tracks should I use on my Bobcat compact excavator?

Bobcat offers several track options based on terrain:

• Rubber tracks – Ideal for turf, asphalt, and sensitive surfaces.

• Steel tracks – Best for rough terrains, demolition sites, and rocky areas.

• Wide rubber tracks – Provide better flotation on soft ground.

Where can I get my Bobcat compact excavator serviced?

Bobcat GDN dealerships nationwide provide full-service maintenance and repairs, including:

• Preventative maintenance programs

• Engine and hydraulic system diagnostics

• Track replacements

• Attachment repairs and servicing

Renting a Bobcat Compact Excavator

Can I rent a Bobcat compact excavator instead of buying one?

Yes! Bobcat GDN offers compact excavator rentals for temporary projects, seasonal work, and short-term needs. Renting is a great option for one-time jobs or trying out different models before purchasing.

What rental options are available?

• Daily, weekly, and monthly rentals

• Excavator + attachment rental packages

• Delivery and pickup services available at select locations

How much does it cost to rent a Bobcat compact excavator?

Rental rates vary by model, location, and rental duration. Contact your nearest Bobcat GDN dealership for pricing and availability.

Contact Bobcat GDN for Compact Excavators

Whether you're looking to buy, rent, or service a Bobcat compact excavator, Bobcat GDN has dealerships nationwide to support your equipment needs. Browse our selection, explore financing options, and find the perfect excavator for your work.