Backhoe Attachments

HOW TO CHOOSE BACKHOE ATTACHMENTS

Having a Bobcat® backhoe attachment gives you excavator-like digging without adding another machine. Start by matching the backhoe to your carrier, then size it for your typical trench depth and bucket width. 

Start With Your Carrier

Bobcat backhoe options break down by machine type: 

• Compact tractor backhoe: Rear-mounted digging for property work and light utility trenching. 
• Loader backhoe attachment: A full lineup for skid-steer loaders and compact track loaders, with dig depths from 6 to 11 feet depending on model. 
• Bob-Tach backhoe: A loader-mounted backhoe that mounts directly to the loader for fast changeovers and less setup. 

When to Choose a Compact Tractor Backhoe Attachment

Choose the compact tractor backhoe when you want a straightforward excavating tool for routine trenching and landscape work with minimal ground disturbance. It includes a required sub-frame for added strength and durability and gives you a clear view into the hole for accurate digging.

Best fit for: 

• Irrigation, water and power line trenching. 
• Ditches, drainage work and retaining wall projects. 
• Septic tank and landscape excavation. 

Quick sizing notes: 

• Three backhoe sizes with dig depths of 73, 90 or 96 inches. 
• 13-inch bucket standard, 16-inch bucket optional.

When to Choose a Loader Backhoe Attachment

Pick the loader backhoe attachment when you need more model choices and deeper reach across a range of loader sizes. It’s designed to be easy to transport between jobs, offers strong down-hole visibility from the operator’s seat, and lets you use excavator-style buckets to match the trench to the job.

Ideal for: 

• Landscaping and nursery excavation. 
• Septic and drainage installs. 
• Utility maintenance where you want a backhoe one day and a different attachment the next. 

When to Choose a Bob-Tach Backhoe

Go with the Bob-Tach backhoe when speed, convenience and reduced ground disturbance matter most. It attaches without mounting kits or stabilizers, and the dipper can swing 48 degrees left or right so you can dump spoil without constantly repositioning the loader. Add the optional clamp when you want extra handling ability for rocks, logs and debris.

Good match for: 

• Frequent attachment swaps on the same job. 
• Tight areas where repositioning the carrier is a pain. 
• Utility trenching where clean, controlled digging matters. 

  Bucket choices: 

• 13-inch, 16-inch or 20-inch (purchased separately) 

Quick Checklist

1. Your machine: Sub-compact or compact tractor vs. skid-steer or compact track loader.
2. Typical depth: Shallow property trenches or deeper utility work. 
3. Bucket width: Narrow for lines and tight trenches; wider for faster cleanup. 
4. Changeover speed: Standard mount vs. Bob-Tach® convenience. 
5. Extras: Bucket selection, optional clamp, and matching hydraulics/compatibility. 

Once you’ve narrowed it down, your local Bobcat dealer can help confirm fit, bucket options and setup so your backhoe attachment shows up ready to dig on day one.