[FONT=Verdana]With a retracted track width of less than 28 inches wide, the ultra-compact 418 can access jobsites where exhausting hand labor is your only other option. Only Bobcat gives you the features to be more comfortable, go through narrower openings and to operate in tighter conditions with confidence. The 418 Excavator is ideal in the construction, rental and utility markets. The 418 will be used by homeowners and contractors working in excavation, plumbing, landscaping, grading, demolition, electrical and cable applications.[/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana]Pilot-operated joysticks control the 418 excavator. With these joysticks, the operator has consistent, smooth and fluid control of the machine, increasing work efficiency and further reducing the possibility of the excavator coming in contact with buildings or other nearby objects. The operator may also choose between ISO and standard pattern joystick operation through a control pattern selector valve. An additional feature of the control system is operator comfort. Bobcat has given operators more room by creating an exclusive two-position joystick consoles. The operator can position the joystick control console in an outward position for greater comfort and lock the console in an inboard position for easier transport of the excavator through gates and doorways. In addition to the two-position joystick consoles, Bobcat has built other features into the 418 excavator that allow the machine to be easily moved into tight work areas. The undercarriage of the excavator retracts to less than 28 inches. The Tip-Over Protective Structure (TOPS) folds down so that the excavator can travel through a standard-size doorway and work in interior jobsites. The design of the 418 excavator promotes uptime by protecting machine components. The hydraulic cylinder is mounted on top of the boom to prevent the cylinder from coming into contact with the trench, bucket or nearby obstacles which may damage the cylinder. The hoses on the 418 excavator have been routed through the inside of the work group to protect them from damage.[/FONT]