How to Adjust the Drive Control Arms on a Bobcat 863 with Cables

[MikePhua]

Introduction to the Bobcat 863 and Its Drive Control System
The Bobcat 863 is a well-known and durable skid-steer loader that is used in a variety of construction and landscaping tasks. One of the key components of the Bobcat 863 is the drive control system, which allows operators to control the machine’s movements. The 863 uses a cable-operated control system to manage the drive arms, providing precise control over forward, reverse, and turning motions. Over time, these control arms may require adjustments to maintain optimal performance and ensure smooth operation.
In this article, we will walk you through the process of adjusting the drive control arms on a Bobcat 863 with cables, helping you keep your machine in top condition.
Why Adjust the Drive Control Arms?

1. Uneven Control Response
   • Over time, the cables that control the drive arms can stretch, wear out, or become misaligned, leading to uneven response when moving forward or backward. Adjusting the control arms ensures that both sides of the loader operate symmetrically, providing more consistent and balanced performance.
     
2. Increased Operator Comfort
   • Properly adjusted control arms make the machine easier and more comfortable to operate. With balanced controls, operators will experience smoother transitions between forward and reverse, reducing fatigue and improving overall productivity.
     
3. Preventive Maintenance
   • Regular adjustments to the control arms are part of routine maintenance that helps prevent further issues such as cable slippage, misalignment, or even cable breakage, all of which can result in costly repairs or downtime.
     

Steps to Adjust the Drive Control Arms on a Bobcat 863
1. Safety First

• Power Off the Machine: Before starting any adjustments, make sure the Bobcat 863 is powered off, and the key is removed from the ignition to prevent accidental starting.
  
• Lift the Machine: Use the machine’s lift arms to raise it slightly off the ground, if necessary. This ensures stability and provides easy access to the control arm area.
  

2. Inspect the Drive Control Cables

• Check for Damage: Inspect the cables for any visible signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Damaged cables may need to be replaced before adjusting the control arms.
  
• Look for Loose or Taut Cables: If the cables are loose or excessively tight, this may indicate that they need adjustment. Loose cables can cause delayed responses, while overly tight cables can lead to jerky movements or excessive strain on the control system.
  

3. Locate the Control Arm Adjustment Mechanism

• The Bobcat 863 features an adjustment mechanism near the base of each control arm. These mechanisms are usually located at the front of the machine, near the drive motors.
  
• You’ll typically find an adjustment nut or bolt that controls the tension on the cables. These nuts are used to fine-tune the response of the control arms.
  

4. Adjust the Tension on the Control Cables

• Adjusting Forward and Reverse Controls: Start by adjusting one of the control arms at a time. Use a wrench or socket set to loosen the adjustment nut or bolt on the cable. Turn the nut to either tighten or loosen the cable tension.
  
• Balance the Tension: Make sure that both sides of the machine have equal cable tension. The goal is for both control arms to respond evenly when moving forward, backward, or turning.
  

5. Test the Controls

• Once you’ve made the adjustments, test the controls to ensure both sides of the machine are operating smoothly and simultaneously. Engage the drive control to check for smooth transitions between forward and reverse motions.
  
• If one side of the loader is still sluggish or jerky, go back and make further adjustments to ensure both sides are balanced.
  

6. Secure the Adjustments

• Once you’re satisfied with the control response, tighten the adjustment nuts or bolts securely to hold the new tension in place. Double-check the tightness to ensure the adjustments won’t shift during operation.
  

7. Final Inspection

• Perform a final inspection to ensure the cables are seated properly and the control arms are functioning correctly. Pay attention to any signs of slack, rubbing, or other potential issues that might affect performance.
  

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Uneven Movement Between Forward and Reverse
   • If one side of the loader moves more quickly than the other, it could be due to uneven cable tension. Adjust the tension on the control cables to ensure equal response from both sides.
     
2. Stiff or Jerky Controls
   • If the controls feel stiff or jerky, it may indicate that the cables are too tight. Loosen the cables slightly to allow for smoother operation. Ensure the cables are lubricated to reduce friction.
     
3. Loose or Slipping Cables
   • If the cables are loose or slipping, it’s likely due to stretched or worn cables. You may need to replace the cables or check the cable routing to ensure they are properly aligned.
     

Conclusion
Adjusting the drive control arms on your Bobcat 863 is a straightforward process that can significantly improve the performance and comfort of the machine. By regularly checking and adjusting the cable tension, operators can ensure smooth, balanced control, preventing uneven movements and reducing strain on the machine. Properly maintained control arms help extend the life of the backhoe and make operation more efficient, ultimately saving time and money on repairs.
By following these steps, you’ll keep your Bobcat 863 in optimal working condition, ensuring it performs reliably for years to come.