Bucket Size

I have a bobcat 753, with 4 in 1 bucket, and was hoping some one might know what the bucket capacity is. for example is it .3 cubic metres/yards

Reason for this is currently having a think about wether I up size to a S185/S205 or go for a real loader but just a smaller size (around the 2.5/3 tonne)

Most of the work I am doing doesnt need me to be getting into small areas and those jobs I can give to others better suited.

For example I am getting jobs where I am taking away dirt by the truck load (last job was 120 tonne) so anything that can load quicker would be a good start.

So am looking at comparing the bucket capacity to start with to see if there is a advantage going for a wheel loader.

Then will look at the power/etc as not sure yet if they will have the grunt to still do the job.

cheers for any help.

From an older Bobcat Sales Brochure

4 in 1 Bucket Heaped Capacities:
60" - 11.4 cubic feet weight 700 lbs
66" - 12.9 cubic feet weight 800 lbs
74" - 13.9 cubic feet weight 870 lbs

Compare that to Low profile buckets:
62" - 14.5 cubic feet weight 451 lbs
68" - 16.0 cubic feet weight 479 lbs
74" - 17.6 cubic feet weight 506 lbs


With a 1300 lb ROC on a 753 and a 60" 4 in 1
1300 - (700 lb 4in1) leaves you only 600 lb capacity for material. Using 76 lb per cubic foot for dry earth (600/76= 7.9 cubic feet) would put you at rated capacity. A full bucket would put you at 1566 lbs which is over ROC but well below tip at 2600 lbs.

Using a 62" LP would equal (451 + (14.5x76)) = 1553 lbs similar load but you are moving about 3 cubic feet more per cycle which is 26% more dirt per cycle.

Using a 68" LP would equal (479 + (16x76)) = 1695 lbs which is 395 lbs over ROC but still 905 lbs below tip, but now you are moving 4.3 cubic feet more per cycle which is 40% more per cycle.

I am not advocating you overload your machine. You will have to evaluate the weight of the actual material you are moving and decide if the decrease in safety and increased wear on your equipment is worth it.

You also need to concentrate on filling the bucket to capacity. If you don't, you will significantly decrease the yards/hr you are able to move.

I have a 763 and have 3 buckets (68" 4in1, 74" 4in1, and 68" LP). Depending upon the material to be moved I choose the appropriate bucket. Buckets on loaders are like blades on saws; they are the point where the work is done and choosing the correct one for the job will allow you to get maximum productivity and efficiency.

IMO, if you're going to be loading trucks, get the bigger machine...
I have a 751...and it does ok grading & moving stone, mulch, dirt...but the bigger machine is much more stable when you have the bucket way up in the air...