Advanced Hydraulic Systems Help Compact Loaders Tackle Bigger Jobs

As skid steers and compact track loaders continue to evolve, operators are looking for their loaders to handle larger, more intensive tasks and run attachments that need higher hydraulic flow. To answer that demand, manufacturers such as Bobcat, Kioti, Caterpillar, JCB and more are releasing their own advanced hydraulic systems. This extra flow is exactly what’s needed to succeed on the job.

“Advanced hydraulic systems are designed for demanding, continuous-duty attachment work that requires high hydraulic horsepower and precise control,” says Ryan Saunders, senior product marketing specialist at Bobcat. “These systems excel in applications including disc mulching in dense vegetation, cold planing for asphalt milling, heavy snow blowing and other jobs where sustained power and consistent performance are critical.”

A wide variety of operators can benefit from the addition of an advanced hydraulic system. For example, Saunders says contractors, municipalities, land management professionals and roadwork and site-prep crews all come to mind as potential users. These systems allow operators to handle a large range of attachments without investing in multiple loaders.

“Operators are always looking for ways to be more efficient and expect one machine to perform more jobs,” says Joel Hicks, product line manager at Kioti. “Advanced hydraulic systems expand versatility without forcing owners into high-flow systems that may exceed their needs or budget.”
Let’s take a closer look at advanced hydraulic systems from Bobcat and Kioti.

Bobcat’s Super Flow

Bobcat’s super flow is available as an optional feature exclusively on the company’s T86 compact track loader and S86 skid steer loader. It’s designed to deliver increased hydraulic flow and pressure for enhanced attachment productivity. Saunders explains that the T86 and S86 are the first compact loaders to offer three hydraulic flow settings — standard, high and super — in one machine. This flexibility allows operators to move seamlessly from lower-demand tools to the most power-intensive attachments.

“Bobcat compact track and skid steer loaders come with standard flow, typically ranging from 17.6 to 23.6 gpm,” he says. “Bobcat’s high flow delivers more power for demanding applications and typically ranges from 26.9 to 36.6 gpm. For the toughest work, operators can opt for Bobcat’s super flow which achieves 42 gpm.”

Properly matching hydraulic flow and an attachment plays a major role in overall performance, uptime and value. With that, the super flow option is an ideal choice for operators who expect to run a variety of attachments that require different flow settings. Saunders explains that loaders equipped with super flow can use attachments designed specifically for super flow hydraulics, such as snowblowers, planers and drum mulchers. Operators are also able to power standard and high-flow attachments thanks to the two other settings.

“Super flow simplifies fleet management and maximizes productivity,” says Saunders. “With one machine capable of running a full range of attachments, operators can accomplish more jobs with less downtime.”

Another impressive feature on the T86 and S86 loaders is an integrated cooling system that’s designed for sustained, heavy-duty attachment work. The system is a core feature of the loaders and supports all hydraulic flow settings — including super flow — ensuring optimal performance during demanding applications.

When using a loader with an advanced hydraulic system, like Bobcat’s super flow, Saunders offers these tips for safe and productive operation:

• Always match the attachment to the machine’s flow setting — never run a standard flow attachment in high or super flow.
• Inspect couplers and hoses before operation.
• Monitor hydraulic temperature during long jobs.
• Use the reversing fan to clear debris and maintain cooling.
• Follow attachment-specific instructions for safe operation.

Kioti’s Flow+

Thanks to Flow+ technology from Kioti Tractor, operators have hydraulic capabilities that are just right for their tasks at hand. Kioti’s Flow+ skid steers and compact track loaders provide power that goes beyond standard flow, but without the excessive cost or fuel consumption of full high-flow systems. Introduced in early 2025, Kioti’s Flow+ is available on the company’s TL750 compact track loader and SL750 skid steer models.

“The Kioti Flow+ models are engineered for operators who need more from their compact loaders,” says Hicks. “It bridges the gap between standard and high-flow systems, providing operators with the hydraulic power needed to handle more demanding tasks, while improving engine functionality, fuel savings and overall versatility. Designed specifically for light- to medium-duty hydraulic attachments, it empowers users to handle more jobs with fewer interruptions.”

According to Hicks, the TL750 and SL750 models deliver powerful performance and versatility with a 74-hp engine, vertical-lift path and robust undercarriage. They also feature pilot joystick controls, a spacious cab, smooth operation and maximum comfort. With Flow+, operators can use light- to medium-duty hydraulic attachments such as rotary cutters, trenchers, snowblowers, augers, brooms and similar implements. Hicks says the hydraulic system supports both Kioti-specific attachments and standard-flow attachments — giving operators flexibility across a wide range of jobs. Flow+ was designed to deliver stable, predictable flow to attachments.

“The new Flow+ models offer a significant upgrade in hydraulic performance compared to the standard models, delivering enhanced power and efficiency for demanding tasks,” says Hicks. “Built with a five-port coupler block, dedicated Flow+ tube lines and valve, and an added gear pump, this system ensures seamless hydraulic operation. While the standard models operate at 3,335 psi with a hydraulic flow of 21.9 gpm and 41.80 hp, the Flow+ models operate at a lower pressure of 2,900 psi but provide a higher hydraulic flow of 34 gpm and an impressive 65.70 hp.”

Features such as the dedicated hydraulic circuitry and five-port coupler block help reduce heat and wear. Hicks explains the smoother power delivery also gives operators more precise control. This is especially important when working around debris, uneven terrain, tight spaces and other people on the jobsite.

“The Flow+ system is focused on longevity and reliability for your compact loader,” he says. “By minimizing heat generation and mechanical stress, the Flow+ helps operators avoid premature wear to pumps, motors, seals and hoses, while still being able to accomplish any job.”