Demystifying Bobcat Mounts: S-Series, T-Series, and the Mini Loader Curveball
If you're running Bobcat equipment, you know the drill: time is money, and swapping attachments needs to be fast and foolproof. But sometimes, figuring out what fits what can feel like a puzzle. You’ve got S-Series (wheeled) and T-Series (tracked) loaders, and then there are those smaller mini track loaders (MT series) that seem to play by their own rules. Let's break down the attachment mounting differences so you can hook up right, every time.
The Full-Size Bobcat S-Series & T-Series: More Alike Than You Think
Let's get straight to it: For full-size Bobcat skid steers (S-Series) and compact track loaders (T-Series), the quick-attach mounting system is fundamentally the same. Both utilize the industry-standard Bob-Tach® system, often referred to simply as the universal skid steer quick-attach.
- S-Series (Skid Steer Loaders): These are your wheeled workhorses. They excel on hard surfaces and offer maneuverability.
- T-Series (Compact Track Loaders): These are your tracked beasts. They provide superior flotation and traction on soft, muddy, or uneven terrain.
Because they share the Bob-Tach interface, the vast majority of attachments designed for full-size skid steers will technically connect to both S-Series and T-Series machines. This means your grapple, auger, trencher, or brush cutter can usually be moved between your wheeled and tracked Bobcat loaders without needing a different mount.
But hold on: While the mount fits, always double-check the attachment's requirements against your specific machine's capabilities. We're talking:
- Hydraulic Flow (GPM): Does your attachment need standard flow or high flow? Make sure your loader can supply the necessary gallons per minute.
- Operating Weight/Lift Capacity: An attachment that's too heavy for your smaller S70 or T110 might be perfectly fine on a larger S76 or T86. Don't overload your machine.
- Auxiliary Hydraulics: Some attachments require a specific 7-pin or 14-pin electrical connection for controls beyond basic hydraulics.
The Bobcat Mini Track Loader (MT Series): A Different Beast Entirely
Here's where things diverge. If you're running a Bobcat MT52, MT55, MT85, or the newer MT100, you've got a different quick-attach system altogether. These mini track loaders use a proprietary, smaller Bobcat mini attachment mount.
Crucial point: An attachment designed for a full-size skid steer (S-Series or T-Series) will NOT directly connect to a Bobcat MT series loader. The mount is physically smaller and uses a different locking mechanism.
This difference means you need specialized attachments built specifically for the Bobcat MT mini mount, or you need an adapter. Adapters are game-changers for these smaller machines, opening up a world of versatility.
Bridging the Gap: Adapters for Bobcat Mini Loaders
At SmithCustomz, we understand that you need your equipment to be as versatile as possible. That's why we build American-made solutions to connect your mini track loader to the attachments you already own or need to use.
1. Customizing for Your MT Series
If you're a fabricator or looking to create a custom attachment for your Bobcat MT series, you'll need the right starting point. Our Bobcat MT Mount Plate (Raw) gives you the robust, precise interface you need. It's built tough, ready for you to weld onto your custom bucket, grapple, or specialty tool, ensuring a perfect fit with your MT loader.
2. Using Full-Size Attachments on Your MT Series
Why buy another set of expensive attachments if you don't have to? With the right adapter, your Bobcat MT series loader can run many of the same standard skid steer attachments your full-size machines use (within the MT's lift capacity, of course).
Our Bobcat MT to Full Size Skid Steer Adapter is exactly what you need. This adapter quickly and securely converts your MT's mini mount to the universal Bob-Tach standard. This allows you to attach a wide range of full-size skid steer implements, dramatically expanding your mini loader's capabilities without breaking the bank on new dedicated mini attachments.
3. Cross-Brand Compatibility: Bobcat MT to Toro Dingo / CII
Sometimes your job site has a mix of mini loaders, or you find a great deal on an attachment designed for a different brand. If you're looking to use attachments with a Toro Dingo or ASV / Vermeer (Compact Interface 2, or CII) style mount on your Bobcat MT loader, we've got you covered.
Our Bobcat MT to Toro Dingo / CII Adapter provides that crucial cross-compatibility. This American-made adapter lets you maximize your attachment inventory, making your Bobcat MT even more versatile by fitting it with Dingo or CII-style attachments.
Key Takeaway: Know Your Mount, Check Your Specs
The main takeaway is simple: full-size Bobcat S-Series and T-Series loaders generally share the same universal Bob-Tach quick-attach system, making attachments largely interchangeable between them (capacity and flow permitting). However, Bobcat's smaller MT (Mini Track) series loaders use a distinct, smaller mounting system.
For your Bobcat MT series, adapters are essential for connecting to full-size skid steer attachments or even other mini loader brands like Toro Dingo. Always verify your specific loader's model, check its hydraulic flow, and understand its lift capacity before hooking up any attachment. With the right knowledge and quality SmithCustomz adapters, you'll always have the right tool for the job.
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