1533 vs Bobcat S175 loader comparison?

motochris · Mar 19, 2016

Anybody have a clue what the actual loader/dirt moving capabilities of a 1533 compared to a Bobcat S175?
I ask...because I currently have an S175, but need more overall capabilities from one machine, primarily with a 3 point hitch system and its implement abilities.. Thinking about selling my 175 and getting the 1533. I will be able to use some of my buckets (rock and digger) from the Bobcat on the 1533.
Just wondering how much difference there will be when it comes to the loader?

oldpilgrim · Mar 19, 2016

Mahindras website will give you all the specs on all their models.

motochris · Mar 20, 2016

I've got specs on both. Just wondering if anyone has used a skidsteer and something like the 1533 for a real world comparison.

ShowroomShine · Mar 20, 2016

Skidsteer vs tractor is no comparison. Tractive effort and breakout force will be much higher on the bobcat allowing for more dirt moving capabilities. You can "skid" steer and not have to make an actual turn, directional changes are easier.

I've got both, a tractor and a bobcat. The speed, power, and finesse of the Bobcat moving material leaves the tractor in the dust.

BobG_in_VA · Mar 20, 2016

Tractors and skid steers are apples and oranges...if you just want to use a bucket get a skid-- if you want/need to do other "stuff", well you know... BobG in VA

mike69440 · Mar 20, 2016

ShowroomShine said:
Skidsteer vs tractor is no comparison. Tractive effort and breakout force will be much higher on the bobcat allowing for more dirt moving capabilities. You can "skid" steer and not have to make an actual turn, directional changes are easier.

I've got both, a tractor and a bobcat. The speed, power, and finesse of the Bobcat moving material leaves the tractor in the dust.

I agree,
I have an L39, a bit modified, and it will pound for pound out dig most any ag based TLB, including Mahindra of similar size. However a skid steer will put it to shame. A track steer is even a better digger/mover/grader.

The above is true digging and most material handling situations. A tractor is a much better Swiss army knife. I get by very nicely with my equipment, without a skid or track steer.
If I were wealthier, I get a dump truck next, then add a track steer to have a complete tool set.

motochris · Mar 20, 2016

I've had the skidsteer for a few years now. For real digging and such it's great but I do so little of that that I figured a tractor could do what loader work I do (though at a slower rate) but also handle all the horse arena prep I do as well.
I'm currently using a homemade arena drag that has teeth to turn the dirt and a pipe to smooth it...towed behind a pickup truck. I go to horse events and see the great arena work the arena prep specific implements do behind a tractor that I'm wanting to go that way.
Mainly concerned that I'll be seriously bummed out at the tractors loader capabilities.

TechGuyTN · Mar 22, 2016

I own an S175 and my newly purchased 2538 TLB. The 2538 is very close to the 1533, so I think it would be a similar comparison tractor wise. However, to compare a bobcat to the tractor, two different animals for sure. The bobcat has the weight, flow, and power to do serious digging, and while the tractor does a great job, it is not in the same class. The loader on the tractor is a strong loader, but if you do a lot of finish type work, you are going to have a different experience for sure. If the implements and 3point capabilities are what you are really after, then the tractor obviously wins. For the arena type work, and general use of the 3point, you'll be happy with the 1533, but don't forget to check out the 2538, I went in for a 1500 series, and opted for it instead after seeing / driving up close.

If you don't have to sell / trade the S175, then I would keep it if that was an option! You always have it as the heavy lifter....

ShowroomShine · Mar 22, 2016

motochris said:
I've had the skidsteer for a few years now. For real digging and such it's great but I do so little of that that I figured a tractor could do what loader work I do (though at a slower rate) but also handle all the horse arena prep I do as well.
I'm currently using a homemade arena drag that has teeth to turn the dirt and a pipe to smooth it...towed behind a pickup truck. I go to horse events and see the great arena work the arena prep specific implements do behind a tractor that I'm wanting to go that way.
Mainly concerned that I'll be seriously bummed out at the tractors loader capabilities.

If you dont move lots of dirt, get the tractor. It will serve you much better. You will still be able to move, dig, load etc with the tractor, but not as fast or efficient.

Navasot · Mar 23, 2016

I have both.... mine is a 1540massey and a ghel 6640 loader... both have their place but if I want to do loader work the skid loader is hands down what I want to use... there is no absolutely no comparison with any tractor to skid steer... the pivot points and weight exchange are totally different not to mention steering... now ask me if I had to choose one to keep up my property (40) acres creek bottom land... it would be the 1540 I have or something like a 1526, 1533 that I would choose over a skid loader any day.... just more versatile and easier to maintain