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Upgrading the Bobcat 773G with High Flow Hydraulics: A Practical Guide
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The Bobcat 773G is a versatile skid steer loader used in various industries such as construction, landscaping, and agriculture. Known for its reliability and maneuverability, the 773G is equipped with standard hydraulic systems that can handle basic attachments like buckets, forks, and grapples. However, to maximize the machine's capabilities, operators often look to add high-flow hydraulics to support more demanding attachments such as stump grinders, augers, and cold planers.
Upgrading to high-flow hydraulics allows the Bobcat 773G to operate attachments that require more hydraulic pressure and flow, ultimately expanding its versatility and productivity. In this article, we’ll walk through the process of adding high flow to the Bobcat 773G, discuss the benefits, and touch on common issues that operators might face.
What is High Flow Hydraulics?
Before diving into the specifics of adding high flow, it’s essential to understand what high-flow hydraulics are and how they differ from standard systems. In a standard hydraulic system, the pump produces a certain amount of hydraulic flow (measured in gallons per minute, or GPM) to power the loader's attachments. However, some attachments require more flow to operate effectively, such as hydraulic-powered attachments for digging, cutting, or milling.
High-flow hydraulics offer a higher flow rate, typically between 26 and 40 GPM, as compared to standard systems which usually provide 16 to 20 GPM. This increase in flow allows operators to use more demanding attachments that require increased power to function, such as:
  • Hydraulic breakers
  • Stump grinders
  • Cold planers
  • Large augers
  • High-flow trenchers
Benefits of Adding High Flow to the Bobcat 773G
Upgrading the 773G with high-flow hydraulics offers several benefits that can significantly enhance productivity and performance. Some of the key advantages include:
  1. Increased Attachment Versatility: High-flow hydraulics allow the machine to operate a broader range of attachments, such as those mentioned earlier. This can make the 773G more useful in more tasks and job sites, increasing its return on investment.
  2. Improved Efficiency: Attachments that require high-flow hydraulic systems generally perform better, completing tasks faster and with greater precision. For instance, high-flow hydraulic breakers will work more effectively, breaking up concrete or rock much quicker than when using standard flow.
  3. Reduced Operator Fatigue: Using more powerful attachments means tasks that would take longer with standard flow systems can be completed quicker. This reduces the number of hours needed to finish a job, ultimately decreasing operator fatigue and improving overall job site efficiency.
  4. Better Performance for Heavy-Duty Tasks: For more demanding tasks such as trenching or asphalt milling, high-flow hydraulics provide the additional power required to handle these operations efficiently, making the Bobcat 773G a more capable machine for heavy-duty work.
Adding High Flow Hydraulics to the Bobcat 773G
Upgrading to high-flow hydraulics on the Bobcat 773G involves several steps. While this process can be completed by a qualified mechanic or dealer, here’s an outline of the general procedure:
  1. Check Compatibility:
    • Not all Bobcat 773G models come equipped with a high-flow option, so the first step is to verify if the machine is compatible with a high-flow upgrade. Some models may require a retrofit kit, while others may already be equipped with the necessary hydraulic plumbing.
  2. Obtain the Necessary Parts:
    • For models that need to be retrofitted, you will need to source the appropriate high-flow hydraulic kit. Bobcat offers official high-flow kits, which include the required hydraulic hoses, fittings, and controls to increase the machine’s flow rate. Be sure to use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts to maintain the integrity of the system.
  3. Install the High-Flow Kit:
    • Begin by disconnecting the machine from any power source, including the battery.
    • Next, install the high-flow hydraulic pump, which will replace the standard pump. This pump is typically larger and designed to handle the increased flow.
    • Once the pump is in place, install the necessary hydraulic hoses and fittings that connect the pump to the hydraulic control valve.
    • Lastly, install the high-flow hydraulic valve that will control the flow rate to the attachments. Ensure all connections are tight and leak-free.
  4. Adjust the Flow Control:
    • After installation, adjust the flow control to ensure that the machine’s hydraulic system is delivering the proper flow rate for the intended attachments. Incorrect flow rates can cause damage to both the machine and the attachment.
  5. Test the System:
    • Once the installation is complete, perform a test run with a high-flow attachment to verify that the system is working properly. Check for any leaks, abnormal sounds, or performance issues. Make sure the attachment operates at the desired efficiency level.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Adding high-flow hydraulics can improve the Bobcat 773G’s performance, but there are also potential issues that operators may face. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:
  1. Hydraulic Fluid Leaks:
    • Cause: If hoses or fittings are not properly tightened, hydraulic fluid may leak.
    • Solution: Double-check all hose connections and fittings for tightness. If any seals or hoses are damaged, replace them immediately to avoid further issues.
  2. Overheating:
    • Cause: High-flow hydraulics generate more heat due to the increased flow, which can lead to overheating if the cooling system is not functioning properly.
    • Solution: Regularly monitor the machine’s temperature and make sure the hydraulic fluid is at the proper level. Inspect the cooling system and clean any debris from the radiator or cooler to allow for optimal airflow.
  3. Inadequate Flow to Attachments:
    • Cause: If the flow control valve is not set correctly, or if the wrong kit is used, the flow to the attachment may be inadequate.
    • Solution: Check the flow settings on the machine and adjust them accordingly. Consult the machine’s manual for the correct flow rate for the attachment in use.
  4. Reduced Performance with Non-High Flow Attachments:
    • Cause: If high-flow hydraulics are used with attachments designed for standard flow, the attachments may not perform as expected.
    • Solution: Be sure to use the correct attachment for the high-flow system. Always verify that the attachment is rated for high-flow hydraulics before use.
Real-World Example: High Flow Upgrade for the Bobcat 773G
A landscaping company working in dense urban environments with a fleet of Bobcat 773G machines decided to upgrade their machines with high-flow hydraulics. Their main objective was to operate high-flow stump grinders and larger augers for digging tree planting holes. After the upgrade, the company saw a noticeable improvement in productivity, as the stump grinders could now grind through stubborn tree stumps in half the time it used to take with a standard-flow setup.
The added power of the high-flow hydraulics not only sped up the process but also made the machine more versatile, allowing them to take on larger projects. With the increased efficiency, the company was able to take on more work, and their equipment proved to be even more reliable on jobs where power and precision were critical.
Conclusion: Maximizing the Potential of Your Bobcat 773G
Upgrading your Bobcat 773G with high-flow hydraulics is an excellent way to enhance the machine's performance and expand its capabilities. Whether you’re using high-flow attachments for digging, cutting, or milling, the upgrade can significantly improve productivity and efficiency on job sites. However, proper installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting are crucial to ensure that the high-flow system works optimally and to avoid potential issues like hydraulic fluid leaks or overheating.
With the right setup, your Bobcat 773G can become an even more versatile and powerful asset in your fleet, tackling a wider range of tasks more effectively than ever before.
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