The Bobcat Tier 4 5600 Toolcat (shown with auger) and the 5610 Toolcat• utility work machines integrate a new traction control system and a non-DPF emissions solution.
Courtesy of Bobcat Company

Bobcat Company has released the Tier 4-compliant 5600 and 5610 Toolcat• utility work machines that incorporate a non-DPF (diesel particulate filter) engine solution. These machines also feature a traction control system designed to provide operators with better mobility when ground conditions are conducive to traction loss, or the machines' wheels encounter obstructions, such as rocks or debris.

Operator-activated traction control increases performance and confidence. A new illuminated rocker switch located on the dash of the 5600 and 5610 utility work machines allows operators to turn the traction control system on or off as needed.

The traction control feature is integrated with the machines' electronics, which allows it to sense speed differentials that typically occur when wheels experience traction loss due to soft ground, snow and ice, or terrain that causes a wheel to lose contact with the ground. The system also senses when wheels encounter obstructions, changes in grade and higher traction levels. Once engaged, as an operator holds a constant low-range speed, the system transfers torque to the wheels with the highest traction.

One of the most significant benefits of this traction engagement system is its ability to function like a locking differential while retaining the advantages of its limited slip differentials. This feature is especially useful to buildings and grounds crews, farmers and homeowners with acreage who are frequently working on terrain with changing conditions and grades. The traction control feature is an option on the 5600 model and is a standard configuration on the 5610 model.

The traction control system works in conjunction with the Bobcat???(R)???AE???? utility work machines' four-wheel independent suspension system. The long wheelbase of Toolcat machines allows the independent suspension of each tire more time to adjust between each impact when traveling over uneven ground.

The suspension system also maximizes traction by maintaining tire-to-ground contact while isolating the machine from changes in terrain, resulting in less impact to the frame, cab and attachments. This reduces bounce, spillage and vibration when carrying materials. In addition, the specially designed suspension stops provide support at maximum lift or payload capacity.