Bobcat has introduced a new version of the 463 skid-steer loader.
New Bobcat loader improves operations
The new 463 skid-steer loader from Bobcat has enhanced performance as well as improved hydraulic and cooling systems, says the company.
01 April 2003
Bobcat, the manufacturer of a wide range of market-leading compact equipment, has introduced a new version of the 463 skid-steer loader, the smallest model in the Bobcat skid-steer loader range.
The 463 provides a significant improvement in performance, says the company. Its engine has been changed to the Kubota D1005-E diesel engine, increasing power by more than 40 per cent from 11.7 kW to 16.8 kW, and boosting engine torque from 42 to 58 Nm. The rated operating capacity has also increased from 317 kg to 329 kg.
There have also been significant enhancements to the hydraulic and cooling systems on the 463. The hydraulic system features more robust hoses, improved hose routing and additional reverse relief values in the hydrostatic pump to reduce pressure spikes. The 463 loader also has an entirely new modular cooling system which can quickly be taken out of the loader by removing only four bolts after disconnecting the hoses. Air flow is supplied by two electric cooling fans which do not run until the engine warms up.
With a hydraulic flow of 34.1 litres per minute, the 463 offers excellent productivity when working with an extensive range of Bobcat attachments, the company says. It is equipped with a quick-change Bob-Tach frame, ensuring that attachments can be fitted securely and safely in seconds and allowing it to accept attachments for the larger 553 loader. As a result, the 463 skid-steer loader can be combined with a choice of around 15 Bobcat attachments including the breaker, the dumper, dozer blade, scraper, sweeper, trencher, auger and backhoe.
One of eight basic models in the Bobcat skid-steer loader range offering rated operating capacities up to 1,400 kg, the 463 is a versatile, compact solution in demolition, construction, farming, landscaping and general material handling applications. With its small dimensions, the 463 is particularly suited to applications with small or narrow openings such as gates, alleys or aisles as well as low ceilings, and with a height of only 1,818 mm and a width of 914 mm, it is ideal for work in tight areas where larger machines cannot manoeuvre.
The loader is equally adept on landscaping projects where minimal ground disturbance is an essential requirement, and the 463 can be fitted with special turf tyres to further minimise damage. The turf tyres are the same size as the standard flotation tyres to ensure that the dimensions of the loader remain constant.
The Bobcat 463 has been specially designed with safety in mind, with the operator's cab offering both falling object and rollover protection. The loader is fitted with a seat belt and a seat bar that doubles as both a secondary restraint and a convenient armrest. Additional safety features include Bobcat's patented Interlock Control System, which prevents operation of the machine's lift and tilt hydraulic functions and the traction drive system if the operator is not in the seat with the seat bar down and the engine running.
The tip-up operator cab provides complete access to hydraulic and hydrostatic components for servicing and this is an easy process achieved simply by removing two nuts from the front of the loader and opening the tailgate to allow the cab to lift freely.
Furthermore, the swing-out tailgate and rear upright design improves service access to the rear of the machine. All routine maintenance components such as the oil dipstick, fuel filters, battery and coolant fill are conveniently located just inside the tailgate.
