08-20-2025, 08:06 PM
Problem Overview
The Bobcat S185 turbo skid steer loader has experienced bogging down during combined hydraulic operations, especially when moving the bucket down and in simultaneously, often accompanied by engine sputtering and belt slippage. The machine also bogs down during rapid acceleration or reaching top speed, particularly when combining these movements.
Technical Specifications
Operators often find that minor neglect of belt tension or fuel contamination exacerbates performance issues during demanding hydraulic cycles. Preventive maintenance focusing on fluid cleanliness, fuel quality, and component wear extends service life. Some users report significant improvement after re-tensioning belts and cleaning fuel systems.
Conclusion
The Bobcat S185's bogging under intensive hydraulic and engine load likely stems from belt tension issues combined with possible fuel delivery or hydraulic system inefficiencies. Routine inspection and maintenance of belts, fuel filters, hydraulic fluids, and pumps are essential to ensure peak performance and prevent engine stalling during simultaneous heavy-duty functions.
The Bobcat S185 turbo skid steer loader has experienced bogging down during combined hydraulic operations, especially when moving the bucket down and in simultaneously, often accompanied by engine sputtering and belt slippage. The machine also bogs down during rapid acceleration or reaching top speed, particularly when combining these movements.
Technical Specifications
- Engine: Kubota V2003-M-DI-T, a four-cylinder turbocharged diesel delivering 56 hp at 2800 rpm.
- Operating Weight: Approximately 6220 lbs.
- Hydraulic System: Standard flow of about 16.9 gallons per minute, with auxiliary high flow up to 26.4 gpm at 3300 psi relief pressure.
- Bucket Capacity: About 0.5 cubic yards.
- Lift Capacity: Operating load rating is 1850 lbs, tipping load about 4076 lbs.
- Max Speed: Up to 11.1 mph, with operating speed around 7.3 mph.
- Fuel Delivery Issues: Contaminated or clogged fuel filters, although recently replaced, can cause insufficient fuel supply during high load conditions.
- Hydraulic Fluid Condition: Dirty or degraded hydraulic fluid can reduce pump efficiency and flow.
- Belt Tension Problems: Loose or worn belts on pulley systems can slip under heavy load, especially during coordinated hydraulic and engine load demand.
- Hydraulic Pump Wear: A failing pump may struggle to maintain flow when multiple hydraulic functions demand pressure.
- Engine Load Management: Turbo buildup and fuel delivery may be insufficient to match hydraulic system demands.
- Check and, if necessary, adjust belt tension ensuring proper grip to avoid slippage. Inspect belt condition for wear or damage.
- Conduct fuel system inspection beyond just the filter—clean the fuel tank, fuel lines, and check injectors.
- Replace or flush hydraulic fluid and filter again if contamination or degradation is suspected.
- Monitor hydraulic pressures and flow rates under load conditions to diagnose pump health.
- Confirm turbo boost function and engine air intake systems are operating properly.
- Consider professional diagnostic assessments for electronic control system faults impacting engine or hydraulics.
- Hydrostatic Pump: Delivers hydraulic fluid under pressure to actuators; performance vital for power and responsiveness.
- Relief Valve Pressure: Max pressure before hydraulic fluid is rerouted to prevent system damage.
- High Flow Auxiliary: Extra hydraulic fluid flow capacity enabling demanding attachments.
- Operating Load Rating: Rated safe lifting capacity at a specified load percentage.
- Tipping Load: Load at which machinery loses stability.
Operators often find that minor neglect of belt tension or fuel contamination exacerbates performance issues during demanding hydraulic cycles. Preventive maintenance focusing on fluid cleanliness, fuel quality, and component wear extends service life. Some users report significant improvement after re-tensioning belts and cleaning fuel systems.
Conclusion
The Bobcat S185's bogging under intensive hydraulic and engine load likely stems from belt tension issues combined with possible fuel delivery or hydraulic system inefficiencies. Routine inspection and maintenance of belts, fuel filters, hydraulic fluids, and pumps are essential to ensure peak performance and prevent engine stalling during simultaneous heavy-duty functions.
