Bobcat Compact Excavators (Mini-Ex) are known for their longevity. It is common to see a 20-year-old Bobcat 331 working right alongside a brand-new E35 on the same job site.
However, identifying these machines can be tricky. Bobcat has released multiple generations of excavators, often with similar model numbers but vastly different structures. Knowing exactly which machine you have is critical for downloading the correct operator's manual, ensuring you have the right insurance coverage, and tracking the value of your asset.
The key to all of this is the Product Identification Number (PIN).
In this article, we will explain the unique locations where Bobcat hides these plates on excavators, the difference between the "House" and the "Swing Frame," and how to verify you are looking at the right number.
The Short Answer: Where is the Serial Number?
Start looking here.
For most Bobcat Compact Excavators, the serial number plate is located on the front right corner of the upper structure (the "House").
To locate it:
- Stand facing the front of the machine (looking at the boom).
- Focus on the "House"—this is the upper cabin assembly that rotates 360 degrees.
- Look at the front right corner vertical face.
- There is usually a black or silver plate riveted to the steel, often low down near where the house meets the track carriage.
Note: If you have an older model (300 series), the location is different. See the detailed breakdown below.
Detailed Locations by Series
The location of the ID plate depends heavily on whether you have a modern "E-Series" or a classic "Numbered Series."
1. The E-Series (Modern Machines)
Common Models: E20, E26, E32, E35, E42, E50, E63, E85.
The E-Series represents the current generation of Bobcat excavators.
- Primary Location: Exterior front right corner of the upper carriage (House).
- Secondary Location: Open the rear tailgate (engine cover). Look for a duplicate sticker on the frame of the cooling module or inside the engine bay door panel.
- Inside the Cab: Look at the right-hand console pedestal. Near the floor mat, where the joystick console rises up, there is often a decal with the VIN/PIN.
2. The 300 and 400 Series (The Classics)
Common Models: 325, 331, 334, 337, 430, 435.
These machines are still very common on job sites. Their ID plates are often located on the Swing Frame.
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What is the Swing Frame?
- This is the heavy cast-iron pivot piece that connects the boom (the arm) to the house. It allows the boom to offset left and right.
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The Location:
- Look on the right-hand side of this casting. Note that this part moves when you operate the boom offset, so be sure the machine is off before inspecting it.
3. The 200 Series (Vintage)
Common Models: 220, 225.
For these older units, the plate is almost always on the Swing Frame pivot point or inside the operator area near the control levers.
Understanding Excavator Components: House vs. Undercarriage vs. Blade
When inspecting a used excavator or logging information for your records, it is easy to get confused by the various tags found on the machine. An excavator is made of modular components, and each often has its own tag.
1. The Machine PIN (The Main ID): This is the number you want. It identifies the excavator as a complete unit. It is found on the main structure (House or Swing Frame). It is a 9-digit code (e.g., AC2N11001).
2. The Blade Serial Number: The dozer blade on the front of the tracks is often considered an "attachment" by the factory. It may have its own small serial number tag. Do not use this to identify the machine year or model. It only identifies the steel blade itself.
3. The ROPS/FOPS Tag: Inside the cab, you will see a metal tag on the roll bar frame. This certifies the safety rating of the Roll Over Protection Structure. While it sometimes lists the machine VIN, it is primarily a safety certification tag.
Why the Serial Number Matters for Owners
Checking for "Grey Market" Machines: A "Grey Market" machine is a unit that was manufactured for a different region (like Japan or Europe) but was imported into North America unofficially.
- These machines often have different safety decals, different wiring, and sometimes different engines that don't meet local emissions standards.
- By checking your Serial Number with a dealer, you can confirm if your machine is a North American unit. This is vital for resale value, as Grey Market machines often sell for less and are harder to service.
Manuals and Safety: If you need to buy a replacement Operator's Manual or Service Manual, you cannot just buy one for a "Bobcat 331." The manuals are updated constantly. You must match the manual to your specific serial number range to ensure the wiring diagrams and safety instructions are correct for your specific unit.
Ordering Parts: The serial number helps you identify fitment of parts and the parts you need with 100% accuracy.
What if the Plate is Missing?
If the exterior plate has been scraped off:
- Check the Stamping: On the Swing Frame (300 series) or the House Frame (E-Series), look for the number stamped directly into the steel. It is usually right next to where the sticker was.
- Inside the Cab: Check the base of the seat pedestal or the console.
- Dealer Lookup: If you can find the Engine Serial Number (on the valve cover of the engine), a dealer can sometimes reverse-search the system to find which Machine PIN that engine was installed in at the factory.
Summary
Knowing the identity of your Bobcat Excavator is about more than just numbers; it's about managing your asset. From ensuring you have the right insurance coverage to verifying you aren't buying a stolen or Grey Market machine, that 9-digit code is the machine's fingerprint.
Quick Review:
- E-Series: Check the front right corner of the House.
- 300 Series: Check the Swing Frame pivot.
- Verify: Ensure you have the Machine PIN, not the Blade or Engine number.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the serial number on a Bobcat E35?
A: On the Bobcat E35, the serial number is typically found on the front right corner of the upper structure (the House), on a plate near the bottom edge. It can also be found on a decal inside the cab near the floor on the right-hand side.
Q: How do I know what year my mini excavator is?
A: The 9-digit serial number does not contain the year. It represents the model and production sequence. To confirm the model year, you must contact a dealer who can verify the manufacture date in their database using your serial number.
Q: Can I use the number on the blade to insure the machine?
A: No. The blade number is specific to that attachment. If you insure the machine using the blade number, your policy may be invalid. Always use the PIN found on the main house structure.
Q: What is the difference between the Swing Frame and the House?
A: The "House" is the main upper cabin that contains the engine and operator seat. The "Swing Frame" is the heavy steel pivot that connects the boom arm to the House. Older excavators usually stamped the ID on the Swing Frame, while newer models stamp it on the House.