The Bobcat T870 stands out with its impressive 12,925-pound operating weight and substantial $118,500 price tag. These numbers might grab your attention, but this compact track loader offers much more than its specifications suggest.
Our hands-on testing revealed that ground performance differs from what you see on paper. The machine packs a 100-horsepower turbocharged engine and boasts a 5,215-pound rated operating capacity. As equipment specialists who have thoroughly tested this machine, we're revealing details about the T870's actual capabilities that dealers and promotional materials rarely mention.
This detailed review shares our findings about ownership costs, including the $1,067 monthly maintenance expenses and fuel consumption rates that rarely come up in discussions. You'll learn if the T870 matches its impressive specifications, whether you're thinking over a purchase or just curious about its performance.
Bobcat T870 Specs: Beyond the Brochure Numbers
The Bobcat T870 made history as the first compact track loader to hit the 100-horsepower mark. The specs look great on paper, but operators have found big gaps between what's promised in brochures and how it actually performs in the field.
The real-life performance vs. advertised specs
The T870 looks impressive by the numbers: 12,925 pounds operating weight, 3,650 pounds rated operating capacity, and a tipping load of 10,430 pounds. But these numbers don't paint the full picture of its performance in tough conditions.
The specs suggest a powerhouse that can handle heavy loads, but operators say the T870's lifting power feels limited with dense materials. The 99-inch turning radius seems fine until you look at the Cat 299D3, which needs just 91.1 inches to turn.
The machine's listed ground pressure of 4.7 psi doesn't match its behavior on soft ground. The weight distribution makes it sink deeper than you'd expect in mud, even with this low pressure rating.
How the 100 horsepower engine actually performs under load
The turbocharged diesel engine hits its peak torque of 276.9 ft-lb at 1600 RPM. All the same, the engine behaves differently when you push it hard or run high-flow attachments.
The engine struggles more than expected under heavy loads, especially with hydraulic attachments that need the full 36.6 gallons per minute high-flow capacity. Fuel costs can add up fast - it drinks about 10 gallons per hour, which means you could spend around $1,500 monthly on fuel with regular use.
Weight distribution impacts you'll feel in the field
The T870's 5-link torsion suspension undercarriage should smooth out vibrations and make operation easier. This system creates a unique weight balance that takes some getting used to with heavy loads.
The machine's hefty 12,925-pound weight brings mixed results in the field. You get great stability for lifting, but the loader isn't as agile as lighter models, especially on rough ground at its top speed of 9.3 mph.
The torsion suspension system proves its worth by cutting down cab noise and vibration compared to older models. This means operators can work longer without getting as tired.
The True Cost of Ownership
Let's talk about what it really costs to own a Bobcat T870, beyond just the specs. Here's a detailed breakdown of your investment that goes way past the showroom floor.
The real price tag upfront
A new Bobcat T870 will set you back $118,500. This is a big investment when you look at other machines in the market. These machines hold their value amazingly well - 2020-2022 models sell between $67,900 and $79,500. Even the older 2014-2016 models still fetch $45,000 to $52,800.
You can rent one if buying isn't your thing. Rates run $500 per day, $250 per half-day, or $2,000 weekly. You'll need to weigh these costs against how much you plan to use it.
The maintenance costs dealers rarely mention
The bills add up fast. The 500-hour service costs about $972, and the 1,000-hour service costs almost twice that according to dealers. Monthly upkeep runs around $1,067, which works out to $12 for each hour you run it.
Simple service items cost you oil changes with filters ($75-$80), hydraulic oil and filter changes ($115-$120), and fuel filters ($75-$80). You'll also spend about $150 yearly on grease.
How much fuel it drinks
The T870's beefy 100-horsepower engine drinks about 10 gallons of fuel per hour. That means you're spending $15 an hour on fuel at today's prices. Most owners see $1,500 in monthly fuel costs with normal use.
You get a 32.6-gallon fuel tank that runs decently long, but expect to use more fuel when you're pushing the hydraulics hard.
Parts you'll end up replacing sooner than you think
Here are the parts that'll hit your wallet regularly:
- Tracks: A new set runs about $1,963, and you'll need them every 500-800 hours
- Bucket cutting edges: Plan on $250-$300 when they need replacing
- Hydraulic system parts: Face seal sets ($283) wear out after heavy use
- Brake disks: A full brake pack costs $889
Buckets usually last through the first 3,000 hours, unless you're working in tough conditions. Once you pass 4,000 hours, get ready for some major component replacements that will take a big bite out of your budget.
Common Bobcat T870 Problems Owners Face
Bobcat T870 owners face several mechanical and operational problems that dealers rarely mention during sales. These issues only show up after putting the machine through its paces on the ground.
Hydraulic system issues after extended use
The T870's hydraulic system tends to act up as the hours pile up. Owners often deal with slow hydraulic release problems because of bad check valves in the main control valve. This tiny part—a fitting with a poppet, spring, and screen—can hurt performance when it fails. The machine might show fault code M0514 (Hydraulic Charge Pressure Very Low) and suddenly stop moving during work.
Track durability and replacement frequency
The track systems give T870 owners plenty of headaches. A set of standard rubber tracks (size 450x86x58) runs about $1,360 and needs replacement after 500-800 hours of use. The track tension needs constant checking—you'll need to adjust it if the track sags more than three-quarters of an inch below the center roller.
The track drive sprocket bolts need special attention. You should check them every 50 hours and tighten them to exact specs to avoid complete breakdowns during operation.
Control system quirks and learning curve
The T870's control systems often have annoying communication failures. Code R7404 (No Communication to Main Controller) pops up even with good fuses. Some operators found that unplugging the drive control module fixes things temporarily, but the machine won't track right afterward.
On top of that, operators need to get used to different control options—ISO controls versus H-pattern. The machine works with both joystick setups, but switching between them takes time to adjust. Multiple drivers using the same machine with different control styles makes smooth operation tough.
Daily Operation Realities
Operating a Bobcat T870 for full workdays gives you a completely different experience than what the brochure suggests. Daily operation of this powerhouse shows both impressive strengths and notable limitations.
Operator comfort during 8+ hour workdays
The T870's 5-Link torsion suspension undercarriage reshapes the scene by reducing vibration and noise by a lot. Operators can work through extended periods without excessive fatigue thanks to this innovative system. To name just one example, operators can now complete full 8-hour shifts with nowhere near the physical strain of previous models.
The cab reveals premium features built for extended operation when you step inside. You'll find a pressurized cab that keeps dust out while maintaining climate control - a vital feature during seasonal extremes. The optional air suspension seat upgrade provides essential support for operators who spend their entire workdays in the machine.
The cab's interior space exceeds competitors by 10%, which makes a noticeable difference for taller operators. One owner put it perfectly: "There's tons of head and leg room with a suspension seat that ticks all the boxes." The strategically positioned fingertip controls for accessories help operators do precise work with less strain during long shifts.
These improvements help, but some operators still experience increasing discomfort from constant vibration after 6+ hours. The improved suspension system cannot completely eliminate this issue.
Visibility
The cab-forward design improves visibility by 30% compared to previous models - a vital advantage when working with attachments. Operators find it much easier to see attachments with raised lift arms through the larger top window, which helps especially when loading trucks or handling materials at height.
The door size has increased by 40% compared to earlier models, which improves side visibility. The lower door threshold gives better sightlines to the tracks and makes getting in and out easier.
Rear visibility shows mixed results. The design has improved from earlier versions, but the cab-forward setup creates some blindspots near the rear corners. Operators need extra caution when moving in tight spaces or backing onto trailers because of this limitation.
