There's a good reason why the engines of Bobcat skid-steer, compact track and all-wheel steer loaders run quieter, last longer and burn less fuel than other brands.
Adapting technology from the automotive industry, Bobcat loaders use a single belt and pulleys to transfer power from the engine to the hydraulic pump. Spring-loaded idlers keep proper tension on the belt. Plus, easy access makes replacing a belt simple and inexpensive.
Competitive loaders transfer power from the engine directly to the hydraulic pump. Because the pump runs at the same speed as the engine, the pump may not operate at the proper speed for optimal hydrostatic and hydraulic functions.
If a small-displacement pump is used, the engine must run at high speed to generate adequate flow. The result is increased fuel consumption, excessive noise, and shorter engine life. Using a larger displacement pump allows the engine to run slower, but sacrifices hydraulic efficiency.
The Bobcat solution allows uses a belt drive to increase speed form the engine. As a result smaller, more efficient pumps without having to run the engine at fuel-guzzling speeds.