Bobcat S550 or S570

[Notforhire]

Since 90% of the work I do is loader work I've been thinking of selling my tractor and getting a skid steer. I used to own a S130 Bobcat but because of the very short wheelbase it proved to be unstable on any kind of slope. The other big downside for me was the inability to get off the machine with the loader raised, in order to hook up a chain etc. I understand that it's the nature of the beast for all except maybe JCBs.

I was looking at new Bobcat S550 and S570 machines with hand controls. This is something new for me. I have only operated the old foot control systems in the past and my exposure to new models is at least ten years old..

I would like to know if anyone has had bad experiences with hand controls. Or if you've had issues with the 550/570 models in general.
A machine that's trouble free is my goal.

 

[DJGTWO]

I have the T595 and love the hand controls. Mine has the SJC system, so I use the led hand for steering and the right hand for attachment control. I went with the tracks because our property is hilly and uneven. The tracks are so sure footed in this terrain.

 

[Shaneard]

Hand controls are awesome, especially if you have knee/leg problems. It doesn't take long to get use to them.

 

[Notforhire]

Thanks much for the info. The hand controls look like the best option for me.
Right now I'm looking at a Kubota L47 TLB, which would solve my getting off under a raised boom problem.
Not as fast as a skid steer, but...
It's all about compromise, I guess.

 

[DJGTWO]

Good luck with the new purchase.

 

[laurencen]

my machine isa S590, has joystick controls and I enjoy it, no more using the feet to control the bucket, the 590 can switch from the right control is bucket control and left drive control to the older control left is left drive and arm control right is right drive and bucket tilt.

 

[Notforhire]

Today I sealed a deal on a Kubota L47TL. I think it should work out better for me than the skid steer since I already own quite a few tractor attachments. If the deal bombs, I'll revisit the Bobcat.
It was a tough decision, I really liked the S550. Thanks again for the input.

........................... S130 OWNERS......................

I was going through my tractor manuals and ran accross a service manual for my Bobcat S130 that I no longer own.
If any TBN member wants it I'll mail it to them if they pay the postage. Just send me a PM.

 

[4570Man]

I think you’ll be happy with the L47. I bought a M59 over a skid steer. The advantages are it moves faster, quieter, and cheaper. It doesn’t destroy everywhere it drives, it goes more than 5 mph, you can get off with the loader in any position. it has a backhoe to dig with, rides a lot better than a wheeled skid. The pretty much only downside is the maneuverability and visibility compared to a skid steer