Bobcat 3400 UTV: Specs and Review

The Bobcat 3400 is a reliable machine, ready to take on the toughest jobs. With a payload capacity of 1,250 lbs, you can fill it with almost anything: Supplies, gear, and more. Industry-leading towing allows you to pull trailers through rough terrain without compromising the ride. What else does the Bobcat 3400 offer?

The Bobcat 3400 is made to deliver on all fronts, with its modular design, work-focused performance, and off-roading capacities. It is robust, multifunctional, and unfailing. It provides the right balance of speed and torque and enables you to perform the most demanding tasks.

Successful Farming Magazine Executive Editor Dave Mowitz even commented on how it could be a best buy, recognizing it as a well-built, well-equipped machine. It is a tried-and-tested workhorse that you can take for some fun weekend riding around the homestead or through hard-packed surfaces and mud.

You may also be wondering how it is off-road? Well, you are about to find out in this article.

The Bold Move

Bobcat’s proven track record in producing compact equipment makes for the perfect baseline to transition to the ATV/UTV scene. In the past, consumers vouched for the reliability, toughness, and overall excellent quality of Bobcat tools and vehicles. And these same characteristics are what off-roaders look for in a quad or sport ATV.

Their entry into the UTV division began in 2002 with its first utility vehicle – the Bobcat 2100. Two years later, the 2200 4×4 made its debut.

Then in 2006, the company made significant developments with the Bobcat 2300, which operated front-mounted attachments and was a guinea pig for the RapidLinkTM attachment mounting system. These grandfathered models were crucial to finalizing the structure of the Bobcat 3400 released in 2010 – only second in popularity to the skid-steer loader that the firm invented.

Fast-forward to today; Bobcat offers four UTV configurations that provide ample speed and feature a 40-hp or 24-hp engine for their gasoline and diesel models, respectively. They all have a low or high-range transmission for carrying tools and supplies, light loads, and even heavy firewood after bucking up logs in the forest.

2017 Bobcat 3400 models come with 26-inch eight-ply radial constructed mud tires for better off-road performance and improved ground clearance.

Two hydrostatic models, 3600 and 3650, have Multi-Attachment X-Change, or MAX system, and provisions for Power Take-Off (PTO-driven) attachments that increase the vehicles’ versatility.

Bobcat 3400 UTV Specs & Features

Bobcat 3400 specs have gone through key improvements with both its gas and diesel-injected models. For comparison, let’s look at the 2012 model versus current Bobcat 3400XL specs:

Engine

Nothing much has changed in the vehicle’s engine except for increased horsepower, improved compression ratio, and bigger displacement.

2012 Bobcat 3400 4×4:

• Emissions Tier (EPA): N/A
• Engine Cooling: Liquid
• Engine Fuel: Gasoline
• Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
• Carburetion Type: Fuel-injected
• Horsepower: 32 hp
• Displacement: 498 c³ / 30.4 in³

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas:

• Emissions Tier (EPA): N/A
• Engine Cooling: Liquid
• Engine Fuel: Gasoline
• Engine Brand Name: ProStar™
• Engine Type: Single-Cylinder
• Carburetion Type: Fuel-injected
• Horsepower: 40 hp
• Bore x Stroke Ratio: 99 mm x 73.6 mm
• Compression Ratio: 10:01
• Displacement: 573.5 c³ / 35 in³

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas:

• Emissions Tier (EPA): Tier 4
• Engine Cooling: Liquid
• Engine Fuel: Diesel
• Engine Brand Name: Kohler®
• Engine Type: Longitudinal In-Line
• Carburetion Type: Fuel-injected
• Horsepower: 24 hp
• Bore x Stroke Ratio: 75 mm x 77.6 mm
• Compression Ratio: 22.8:1
• Displacement: 1,032.4 c³ / 63 in³

Drivetrain

Power comes from a Continuous Variable Transmission belt, inclusive of a reverse. The steering type is manual with the earlier models but changed to power steering in recent years – both types provide easy, low-effort maneuverability.

There are two driveline options offered for all models, but recent ones have been built as 4WD. Two-range transmission is in place for better handling during inclement road conditions, hauling, and rock crawling.

2012 Bobcat 3400 4×4:

• Transmission Type: Continuous Variable (CVT)
• Overdrive: No
• Primary Drive (Front Wheel): Shaft
• Primary Drive (Engine/Transmission): Belt
• Reverse: Yes
• High/Low Range: Yes
• Driveline Type: Selectable 2WD/4WD
• Rear Unlocking Differential: Standard
• Rear Solid Axle: None
• Limited Slip Differential Location: Front
• Differential Lock Location: Rear

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas:

• Transmission Type: Continuous Variable (CVT)
• Overdrive: No
• Primary Drive (Front Wheel): Shaft
• Primary Drive (Engine/Transmission): Belt
• Reverse: Yes
• High/Low Range: Yes
• Driveline Type: 4WD
• Rear Unlocking Differential: Standard
• Rear Solid Axle: None
• Limited Slip Differential Location: Front
• Differential Lock Location: Rear

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Diesel:

• Transmission Type: Continuous Variable (CVT)
• Overdrive: No
• Primary Drive (Front Wheel): Shaft
• Primary Drive (Engine/Transmission): Belt
• Reverse: Yes
• High/Low Range: Yes
• Driveline Type: 4WD
• Rear Unlocking Differential: Standard
• Rear Solid Axle: None
• Limited Slip Differential Location: Front
• Differential Lock Location: Rear

Ignition

The Bobcat uses a CDI electronic ignition with a power output of 8.3 kW (11.1 hp) at 7,000 RPM. It also has a three-phase A.C. generator system.

Tires

Tire sizes for both front and rear remain unchanged across all models since 2010, but 26-inch tires have become optional beginning 2017. Hydraulic disc brakes provide stopping power.

Despite the uniform wheels, there are slight differences in travel speeds between the vehicles.

2012 Bobcat 3400 4×4:

• Wheels Composition: Steel
• Front Tire: 25 x 10 – 12
• Rear Tire: 25 x 11 – 12
• Tread Type: All-Terrain
• Front Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc
• Rear Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc
• Linked Brake System (Front to Rear): Standard
• Engine Braking: Standard
• Travel Speed: 30 mph
• Travel Speed – Max: 30 mph
• Travel Speed – Low: 14 mph
• Travel Speed – Reverse: 14 mph

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas:

• Wheels Composition: Steel
• Front Tire: 25 x 10 – 12
• Rear Tire: 25 x 11 – 12
• Tread Type: All-Terrain
• Front Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc
• Rear Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc
• Linked Brake System (Front to Rear): Standard
• Engine Braking: Standard
• Travel Speed: 35 mph
• Travel Speed – Max: 40 mph
• Travel Speed – Low: 16 mph
• Travel Speed – Reverse: 16 mph

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Diesel:

• Wheels Composition: Steel
• Front Tire: 25 x 10 – 12
• Rear Tire: 25 x 11 – 12
• Tread Type: All-Terrain
• Front Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc
• Rear Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc
• Linked Brake System (Front to Rear): Standard
• Engine Braking: Standard
• Travel Speed: 35 mph
• Travel Speed – Max: 40 mph
• Travel Speed – Low: 16 mph
• Travel Speed – Reverse: 16 mph

Suspension

Changing from a McPherson Strut to an independent double A-arm front suspension and semi-independent rear suspension helped increase the Bobcat 3400XL Diesel and Gas models’ payload capacity.

Front independent suspension improved rider comfort and the vehicle’s agility over rough terrain. The rear de Dion suspension takes the weight off the chassis by distributing it across the back tires.

2012 Bobcat 3400 4×4:

• Front Suspension Type: McPherson Strut
• Front Adjustable Fork Pre-load: No
• Rear Suspension Type: Independent Double A-Arm
• Rear Adjustable Shock/Spring Pre-load: No
• Number Rear Shock Absorbers: 2
• Rear Stabilizer Bar: Yes
• Adjustment Type: Shock Mounted Adjustment
• Air Adjustable: No
• Fuel Tank: 9 gal
• Cargo Box Bed Load Capacity: 1,100 lbs
• Cargo Box Length: 36.5 in
• Cargo Box Width: 54 in
• Cargo Box Height: 11.5 in
• Cargo Box Bed Load Height: 33 in
• Seat Belts: Standard

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas:

• Front Suspension Type: Independent Double A-Arm
• Front Adjustable Fork Pre-load: No
• Rear Suspension Type: De Dion Semi-Independent
• Rear Adjustable Shock/Spring Pre-load: No
• Number Rear Shock Absorbers: 2
• Rear Stabilizer Bar: Yes
• Adjustment Type: Shock Mounted Adjustment
• Air Adjustable: No
• Fuel Tank: 10 gal
• Cargo Box Bed Load Capacity: 1,250 lbs 
• Cargo Box Length: 43.5 in
• Cargo Box Width: 54 in
• Cargo Box Height: 11.5 in
• Cargo Box Bed Load Height: 33 in
• Seat Belts: Standard

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Diesel:

• Front Suspension Type: Independent Double A-Arm
• Front Adjustable Fork Pre-load: No
• Rear Suspension Type: De Dion Semi-Independent
• Rear Adjustable Shock/Spring Pre-load: No
• Number Rear Shock Absorbers: 2
• Rear Stabilizer Bar: Yes
• Adjustment Type: Shock Mounted Adjustment
• Air Adjustable: No
• Fuel Tank: 10 gal
• Cargo Box Bed Load Capacity: 1,250 lbs 
• Cargo Box Length: 43.5 in
• Cargo Box Width: 54 in
• Cargo Box Height: 11.5 in
• Cargo Box Bed Load Height: 33 in
• Seat Belts: Standard

Dimensions

Enhancements to the Bobcat 3400XL parts, particularly the increase in its overall length and wheelbase, is felt in the vehicle’s towing capacity. It also creates enough room for four people to fit in.

2012 Bobcat 3400 4×4:

• Length: 113 in
• Width: 60 in
• Height: 75 in
• Ground Clearance: 9.5 in
• Turning Radius: 122.4 in
• Wheelbase: 76 in
• Dry Weight: 1,440 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas:

• Length: 154.7 in
• Width: 64 in
• Height: 74 in
• Ground Clearance: 10.5 in
• Turning Radius: 129 in
• Wheelbase: 116 in
• Dry Weight: 1,900 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 2,260 lbs

2020 Bobcat 3400XL Diesel:

• Length: 154.7 in
• Width: 64 in
• Height: 74 in
• Ground Clearance: 10.5 in
• Turning Radius: 129 in
• Wheelbase: 116 in
• Dry Weight: 2,040 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 2,300 lbs

Exterior

Unlike most UTVs, the Bobcat side by side gives off a farmhouse appeal with its dark, matte-finish body color. While it comes equipped with fender flares and other staples, consider a skid plate by UTV Hitchworks (view on Amazon) and other Bobcat 3400 parts if you plan to rough it in the woods.

2012 Bobcat 3400 4×4, 2020 Bobcat 3400XL Gas, and 2020 Bobcat 3400XL Diesel:

• Frame: Steel
• Body Material: Plastic
• Radiator Guard: Yes
• CV Boot Cover: Yes
• Front Bumper: Standard
• Front Fender Flares: Standard
• Rear Fender Flares: Standard
• Bash Plate (Front): Yes
• Full-Length Skid Plate: Yes
• Cab Cage: Standard
• Cab Rollbar: Standard
• Cab/Bed Divider: Standard

True Four-Wheel Drive

This option is available only on the 3400 4×4, 3400XL, and 3450 models. This feature sends torque to every wheel to avoid slippage. Your front wheels power you through challenging terrain the moment your rear wheels begin to lose traction.

The Bobcat 3400 UTV comes with almost everything required for a hard day’s work, plus optional features. Depending on the Bobcat 3400 specs you need, you may add air-conditioning, a cab heater, a cab enclosure, and even front and rear wipers.

Bobcat 3400 Price

The gas-injected 2019 Bobcat 3400 is $13,420, while its 3400XL edition is $15,440. The diesel version of the Bobcat 3400 4×4 values at $16,005, with its Bobcat 3400XL price at $17,450.

Older model prices (for both gas and diesel types) range between $4,688 and $12,500 and are all in good working condition. Some owners sell 2019 diesel models for $16,900, which may already come with cab enclosures, heaters, and front blades.

Benefits of Riding a Bobcat 3400

Here are some of the positive Bobcat 3400 reviews that consumers have – worth noting if you are deciding on your next UTV purchase:

• This UTV can carry up to 1,250 lbs, which is nearly as much as a pickup – with less insurance spending and a fraction of the pickup’s cost. Not only that, but both licensed and unlicensed drivers can use the vehicle.
• On the Bobcat 3400 4×4, you can transport at least two passengers at a time. The 3400XL models’ ergonomic bench rear seating is coupled with front seats to allow up to five total riders.
• Attachments such as a snow blade or rear-mounted sprayer allow you to do work from your cab. Add-ons like cargo box wall extensions enhance the load-carrying capability of your four-wheeler.
• Variable-rate acceleration allows for ease of control at any speed. During the first half of the pedal stroke, the Bobcat increases the speed at a slower rate and responds faster during the second half to quickly reach operating speed.
• Ample legroom, a spacious glove compartment, and integrated accessories are small comforts that add to an enjoyable (and clutter-free) riding experience.
• It does not take much to keep this four-wheeler well-maintained, with its conveniently located fuel tank, engine compartment, battery, engine oil, and air filter, among others. Service codes and warning displays are also easy to understand and quickly allow you to get to the bottom of any service issues.

No wonder the Bobcat 3400 ranked 2nd out of 103 utility vehicles on ATV.com, just behind Polaris Ranger. This vehicle may not be a speed demon, but it does not need racing-level speed to get things done.

Consider this hardworking beast if you want top-notch performance, quality, comfort, and value while balancing work and fun.

Bobcat 3400 Problems & Repairs

Most problems with the Bobcat 3400 4×4 can be easily fixed. But there are some issue consumers have reported:

2018 Recall

The August 2018 recall of 2,700 units of 3400 and 3400XL UTVS is probably the only major issue that the Bobcat has had. The firm received seven reports of cracked exhaust header pipes involving 2015 through 2018 models, which posed safety hazards.

Although there were no injuries or fires, the manufacturer saw it best to recall the affected units.

Diesel Shifting Issue

Some pre-loved models would only shift gears when off or when being rocked forward and backward. To fix, first inspect that the secondary clutch is not spinning while idle, as this only loads up the output shaft to where shifting would be next to impossible.

Look into the primary clutch and see if it sticks a little off the throttle and then jerks back, as this can be caused by sticking clutch weights or worn bushings.

Drive Belt Issue

Owners noticed that it takes quite a few revs above idle to get the clutches to start shifting. And once it does work, it lurches the vehicle forward. Other times, the engine could barely maintain an idle in low range or could not start in high-range gear due to too much drag.

These symptoms would need one of the following remedies. Adjust the sheave width on the secondary CVT to get proper belt deflection or replace the belt altogether.

EFI Problems

2012 Bobcat 3400 gas models have engines starving for fuel despite a clean fuel pump. Usually, this would be an indicator of insufficient fuel pressure.

Once you pick up on this, get the pressure tested, and clean the fuel system and electrical connections. You may also need to replace your pressure gauge to ensure that it does not give you faulty readings.

Timing a Bobcat 3400 Engine

For an XL edition (gas-injected), you need to take the spark plug out and bring the top of the piston up to Top Dead Center or TDC. With a pencil, press inwards to feel the piston top come up to its maximum travel.

About Bobcat

Bobcat is an American firm based in North Dakota that produces equipment used in construction, agriculture, landscaping, rental, grounds maintenance, utilities, and other applications. The firm has been the world leader in the compact equipment industry since they invented the skid-steer loader.

They leverage technology and innovation to become more productive while minimizing their impact on the environment, partnering with nonprofit organizations, and volunteering time in their local communities. This subsidiary of Doosan Group of South Korea is the maker of the Bobcat 3400.

Conclusion – Bobcat 3400 UTV

Though not the best in straight-line performance, the Bobcat 3400 aptly delivers quality. It is an excellent machine for exploring places where other UTVs would be hardpressed to ride. Cold-starting is never an issue during winter, even if kept outside with temperatures around 0°F.

Its four-wheel independent suspension and drive mode selection options provide maximum drive torque on hills, easy navigation in shallow streams, and faster travel under light loads.

This 4×4 vehicle is as dependable as a workhorse as it is an off-roading companion. It is unquestionably a one-trip-wonder for any job. With this article’s help, the Bobcat 3400 may well be on its one-way trip to your garage, too.