Key Takeaways
- The Bobcat 853 is a mid-size skid steer loader produced in the mid-1990s, powered by a Kubota V2203 58 hp diesel engine with a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,700 lb (775 kg).
- Core dimensions include an operating weight of about 6,220 lb (3.1 t), width of roughly 68 in (1.6 m), height of 80.9 in (2.05 m), and length around 8 ft (3.26 m).
- The hydrostatic drive and auxiliary hydraulics (about 14 GPM at ~3,000 psi) allow the machine to run demanding attachments such as augers, trenchers, and breakers.
- This model is known for solid reliability, simple maintenance, and easy parts sourcing despite being decades old.
- The following sections break down full Bobcat 853 specifications, dimensions, performance data, and ownership considerations in clearly organized detail.
Introduction to the Bobcat 853 Skid Steer Loader
This guide is for equipment buyers, owners, and operators seeking detailed Bobcat 853 specifications and practical ownership advice. The Bobcat 853 specs are essential for anyone comparing models, planning transport, or ensuring safe operation. Understanding these specifications helps you compare models, plan transport, and ensure safe operation. The Bobcat 853 was manufactured from 1995 to 1996.
The Bobcat 853 skid steer remains a popular choice among contractors, landscapers, and farmers who need a capable mid-size loader without the price tag of newer equipment. Produced primarily around 1995–1996, this machine sits comfortably in the mid-size class of steer loaders and continues to work on job sites across North America.
What makes the 853 skid steer loader worth considering? It combines a compact footprint with a 58 hp diesel engine, strong lift capacity for its class, and compatibility with a wide range of hydraulic attachments. The manufacturer designed this equipment for versatility, and that design philosophy shows in its ability to handle everything from construction debris to agricultural feed handling.
This article covers engine specs, hydraulic system details, lifting capacity, detailed dimensions, and practical buying and ownership notes. Whether you’re looking to purchase a used unit or need full details on a machine you already own, you’ll find the 853 specifications laid out clearly below, and you can also compare them with Bobcat 743 specifications and data.
Bobcat 853 Engine Specifications
The powerplant driving the Bobcat 853 determines much of its on-site capability. Here’s what you need to know about what’s under the hood.
Engine Model and Type:
- Kubota V2203, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel
- Widely used in compact equipment throughout the 1990s
- Naturally aspirated design with mechanical fuel injection
Performance Figures:
|
Specification |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Gross Power |
58 hp (~43 kW) |
|
Displacement |
134.1 cu in (2.2 L) |
|
Cylinders |
4 |
|
Cooling |
Liquid-cooled |
Fuel System Details:
- Diesel fuel with mechanical injection system
- Fuel tank capacity approximately 14.3 gallons (54 L)
- Provides reasonable run time between refuels for most job-site applications
The Kubota V2203 delivers good low-end torque, which matters when you’re pushing material or lifting heavy loads. Compared to similar-era skid steers in the 50-60 hp class, the 853 holds its own in both power delivery and fuel efficiency. Models like the Bobcat 753 skid steer specifications provide a useful benchmark for this horsepower range. Cold starts are generally reliable when glow plugs are in good condition—a detail worth checking on older units.
Hydraulic System, Drive & Travel Speed
Hydraulic performance and the drive system determine how well the Bobcat 853 handles attachments and moves around the work area. This machine uses a proven hydrostatic setup that remains effective for its intended applications, similar in concept to the Bobcat 863 hydraulic and performance specifications.
Drive System:
- Hydrostatic drive with independent hydraulic motors at each wheel
- Smooth, infinitely variable forward and reverse speeds
- No two-speed option from the factory
Steering Controls:
- Twin-lever steering (left and right levers controlling drive functions)
- Designed for precise maneuvering in tight spaces
- Responsive enough for indoor warehouse work or crowded job sites
Hydraulic Specifications:
|
Parameter |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Main Hydraulic Flow |
~14 GPM |
|
System Pressure |
~3,000 psi |
|
Auxiliary High Flow (optional) |
17.9 GPM |
|
Quick Coupler Relief Pressure |
2,850 psi |
Standard auxiliary hydraulics come equipped on the 853, enabling operation of tools like trenchers, breakers, augers, sweepers, and grapple buckets. The hinge pin height of 119.6 inches provides solid reach for loading trucks and stockpiling material, putting it in the same general working class as the Bobcat 7753 specifications and capabilities.
The maximum travel speed sits at approximately 6.2-7.1 mph (about 11-12 km/h). While not blazing fast, this speed works well for moving between work areas on smaller sites. The hydrostatic system responds smoothly to frequent direction changes, which helps reduce operator fatigue during repetitive loading tasks.
Dimensions, Weight & Operating Capacity
Physical dimensions and rated capacities matter for transport planning, site access, and understanding what the machine can safely handle. Here are the key measurements for the Bobcat 853.
Core Dimensions
|
Measurement |
Imperial |
Metric |
|---|---|---|
|
Overall Length (with bucket) |
128.5 in (~10.7 ft) |
3.26 m |
|
Overall Length (without bucket) |
101.8 in |
2.59 m |
|
Width (over tires) |
62.3-68 in |
1.6 m |
|
Overall Height |
80.9 in |
2.05 m |
|
Maximum Height (hinge pin) |
119.6 in |
3.04 m |
Wheelbase and Clearance
- Wheelbase: approximately 38.6-40.6 in (~1.03 m)
- Ground clearance: about 8.0 in (~0.2 m)
- The relatively short wheelbase aids maneuverability while ground clearance handles most terrain
Weight and Capacity
|
Specification |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Operating Weight |
~6,220-6,500 lb (3.1 t) |
|
Rated Operating Capacity (SAE) |
1,700 lb (775 kg) |
|
Tipping Load |
3,420 lb (1,540 kg) |
|
Bucket Capacity |
0.52 m³ |
The rated operating capacity is the maximum load the loader can safely carry, which for the Bobcat 853 is 775 kilograms. The rated operating capacity follows SAE standards at 50% of tipping load, giving you a safe working margin. When shopping for trailers, plan for a tandem-axle equipment trailer with at least 10,000-12,000 lb GVWR to safely transport the loader plus bucket and any additional tools, similar to requirements for machines like the Bobcat S205 skid steer loader.
Bobcat 853 Performance & Typical Applications
Raw specs translate into real-world capability when you match the machine to appropriate tasks. The 853 performs well as a mid-size loader—strong enough for heavy pallet handling, dirt excavation, and grading, yet compact enough for residential or urban sites where width and length restrictions apply, much like the Bobcat S300 skid steer specifications.
Construction Applications:
- Loading trucks with debris or aggregate
- Backfilling trenches and foundations
- Demolition cleanup and material transport
- Trench support work with appropriate attachments
- Small to medium job-site material handling
Agriculture and Landscaping:
- Moving feed, bedding, and hay bales
- Cleaning livestock pens and barns
- Grading driveways and parking areas
- Handling soil, mulch, and landscaping materials
- Snow removal with bucket or blade attachments
The 58 hp engine and 14 GPM hydraulics allow operation of more demanding attachments compared with smaller skid steers of the same era. You can run trenchers for irrigation work, augers for post holes, or grapple buckets for brush clearing without overwhelming the system, comparable in many ways to the Bobcat T190 compact track loader specifications.
Regarding operator experience, the cab space reflects 1990s design—functional but basic. Visibility is adequate for most tasks, and control responsiveness suits experienced operators. The bics system interlock and other safety features may be optional rather than standard, so check what’s equipped on any unit you’re evaluating.
Maintenance, Parts & Reliability
Many Bobcat 853 units remain in active service decades after production ended. Maintenance and parts availability become major considerations for anyone owning or purchasing this equipment, just as with newer models like the Bobcat T595 compact track loader.
Common Maintenance Tasks
- Engine oil and filter changes (every 250-500 hours)
- Fuel and air filter replacement
- Hydraulic fluid and filter service
- Greasing all pivot points regularly
- Checking and adjusting track tension if applicable
Parts Availability
Good news for 853 owners—Kubota V2203 engine parts (filters, glow plugs, gaskets, rebuild kits) remain widely available from both aftermarket and OEM sources. Bobcat-specific components like hydraulic cylinder seals, hoses, drive motor parts, and boom cylinders can be sourced through dealers and independent suppliers. A quick search will show multiple vendors stocking common replacement items.
Frequent Wear Points
- Hydraulic cylinder seals (check for leaks around rod ends)
- Hoses (inspect for cracking, abrasion, bulging)
- Tires (standard size is 12.0-16.5 or 8.25-15 depending on configuration)
- Control linkages and pivot bushings
- Quick-attach mechanism wear
Troubleshooting Hints
For engine-powered equipment in general, being alert to symptoms like unusual ticking noises, loss of power, or rough idle—as described for three key indicators of rocker arm failure—can help you catch problems early.
|
Symptom |
Likely Cause |
|---|---|
|
Weak lift or drifting boom |
Worn cylinder seals, internal leakage |
|
Poor cold starting |
Glow plug failure, fuel delivery issues |
|
Surging or hesitation in drive |
Low hydrostatic fluid, wheel motor wear |
|
Excessive play in loader arms |
Worn pivot pins and bushings |
With regular inspections and timely repairs, the 853 generally proves to be a durable, long-lived machine. ISO standards for parts and the manufacturer’s straightforward design make most repairs achievable without specialized tools, similar to larger machines detailed in the Bobcat T870 loader specifications.
Buying a Used Bobcat 853: What to Check
Finding a solid used Bobcat 853 requires knowing what to inspect before money changes hands. This section helps prospective buyers evaluate units and avoid expensive surprises.
Serial Number Verification:
- Locate the serial number on the frame near the operator’s left side or footwell
- Use it to verify year of manufacture and original configuration
- Contact Bobcat dealers or parts suppliers who can decode serial numbers for model details
Engine Inspection:
- Check for blow-by at the oil filler cap with engine running
- Look for oil leaks around gaskets, seals, and lines
- Note exhaust smoke color (blue = oil burning, black = rich fuel mixture, white = coolant)
- Listen for unusual knocks or rattles at various RPMs
Hydraulic System Checks:
- Cycle lift and tilt functions fully under load
- Watch for jerky movement or drifting when holding position
- Inspect visible hoses and fittings for leaks, abrasion, or swelling
- Check hydraulic fluid level and condition
Hydrostatic Drive Testing:
- Verify smooth forward and reverse operation
- Confirm equal power delivery to both sides
- Listen for excessive whining or vibration from drive motors
- Test on a slope if possible to reveal weak drive components
Structural Inspection:
- Examine loader arms carefully for cracks or weld repairs
- Check pivot pins and bushings for excessive play
- Inspect frame for signs of hard impacts or bending
- Look at quick-attach mechanism for wear or damage
Documentation Review:
- Request service history and maintenance records
- Note hour meter reading and compare to expected wear
- Ask about major component replacements (engine, pumps, motors)
- Verify any reported repairs with physical inspection
FAQ
Q1: What years was the Bobcat 853 produced?
A1: The Bobcat 853 was mainly produced in the mid-1990s, with most units built around 1995–1996. Production dates can be confirmed precisely by checking the individual machine’s serial number through Bobcat dealers or parts databases. Some sources indicate slight variations in production timeline, so serial number verification provides the most accurate dating.
Q2: What size trailer do I need to haul a Bobcat 853?
A2: With an operating weight of approximately 6,220-6,500 lb (3.1 t), most owners use a tandem-axle equipment trailer rated for at least 10,000–12,000 lb GVWR to safely carry the loader plus bucket and any extra tools. Single-axle trailers generally lack the capacity for safe transport. Always account for the weight of attachments when calculating total load.
Q3: What tires come on a Bobcat 853 and can they be upgraded?
A3: The Bobcat 853 typically uses 12.0-16.5 skid steer tires as standard equipment, though some units may have 8.25-15 tires depending on configuration. Owners can upgrade to heavy-duty or severe-service tread patterns for rough terrain, or even install solid or foam-filled tires to eliminate puncture risk in demolition or scrap yard applications.
Q4: Is the Bobcat 853 compatible with modern skid steer attachments?
A4: The 853 uses the standard Bob-Tach quick-attach system, which is the standard system on the Bobcat 853 for changing attachments, so most modern universal-mount skid steer attachments within its hydraulic flow and weight limits can be used. Always verify flow and pressure requirements before purchasing attachments—some newer high-flow tools may exceed the 853’s standard 14 GPM capacity unless the high-flow option is installed.
Q5: How does the Bobcat 853 compare to newer skid steers in performance?
A5: While newer models offer higher horsepower, more advanced controls (joysticks, electronic displays), improved operator comfort, and better fuel efficiency, the 853 still delivers competitive lifting capacity and hydraulic performance for many tasks. The trade-off comes down to cost—a used 853 typically sells for a fraction of new equipment prices, making it a cost-effective choice for buyers who prioritize function over features.
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