Installing a Rear Window in a Bobcat T190 Compact Track Loader

[MikePhua]

The T190 and Its Cab Configuration
The Bobcat T190 compact track loader was introduced in the early 2000s as part of Bobcat’s push into the mid-size CTL market. With a rated operating capacity of 1,900 pounds and a turbocharged diesel engine producing around 66 horsepower, the T190 became a popular choice for contractors, landscapers, and utility crews. Its compact footprint and rubber track system allowed it to operate efficiently on soft terrain and in confined spaces.
The cab of the T190 was designed for modularity, with optional enclosures, HVAC systems, and safety glass. However, many units were sold with open ROPS or partial enclosures, leaving the rear window absent or removed. Retrofitting a rear window into an existing cab requires understanding the moulding system, glass seating technique, and safety considerations.
Terminology and Component Notes
- ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure): A structural frame designed to protect the operator in case of rollover, often used as the mounting base for cab enclosures.
- Rubber Moulding: A flexible gasket that holds the window glass in place and seals it against the cab frame.
- Locking Cord: A rubber or plastic insert that secures the glass within the moulding groove, preventing movement or ejection.
- Safety Tag: A small insert or marker used to indicate the locking cord’s position and ensure proper installation.
- Plastic Stick: A non-metallic tool used to guide the moulding lip over the glass edge without damaging the seal.
Preparing the Cab for Window Installation
Before installing the rear window, the cab opening must be inspected for rust, deformation, or leftover adhesive. Clean the perimeter thoroughly and ensure the mounting flange is smooth and free of burrs. If the original moulding is missing or damaged, a new universal moulding kit can be trimmed to fit.
Preparation steps:

• Measure the window opening and confirm glass dimensions
  
• Clean the cab flange with solvent and remove old sealant
  
• Test-fit the moulding around the perimeter and trim to length
  
• Apply liquid soap or silicone lubricant to the moulding channel
  
• Insert the locking cord into the moulding groove on the cab side
  

One technician shared that using dish soap as a lubricant made the installation smoother and reduced the risk of tearing the rubber during seating.
Installing the Window Safely and Securely
The window should be installed from the outside of the cab, starting at a bottom corner. Align the glass carefully and work it into the moulding using gentle pressure. Once the lower edge is seated, guide the opposite corner into place and gradually press the glass downward until fully seated.
Installation tips:

• Use a plastic stick to lift the moulding lip and guide the glass edge into the groove
  
• Avoid using metal tools, which can damage the rubber or scratch the glass
  
• Tap the window corners lightly with a rubber mallet to help seat the glass
  
• Insert the locking cord using a plastic stick, starting from the top center
  
• Confirm that the cord is fully seated around the perimeter and that the safety tag is visible
  

If the window resists seating, reapply lubricant and check for misalignment. Forcing the glass can lead to cracking or improper sealing.
Sourcing Drawings and Replacement Parts
While official shop drawings for the T190 rear window installation may be difficult to obtain, workshop manuals often include exploded diagrams and installation notes. These manuals are available through Bobcat dealers or aftermarket technical publishers. Some operators have successfully installed windows using only the manual’s brief instructions and visual references.
Alternative sourcing strategies:

• Contact salvage yards for used window assemblies and mouldings
  
• Use universal moulding kits from automotive glass suppliers
  
• Request installation guidance from Bobcat service departments
  
• Consult online forums for user-generated diagrams and photos
  

One operator in Australia noted that his workshop manual included black-and-white illustrations that, while not ideal for reproduction, were sufficient for guiding the installation.
Bobcat’s Compact Loader Legacy and T190 Market Impact
Bobcat, originally Melroe Manufacturing, revolutionized compact equipment with the introduction of the skid steer in the 1960s. The T190, part of the CTL expansion, offered improved traction and reduced ground disturbance compared to wheeled models. Its success led to the development of larger models like the T250 and T300, and eventually the M-series with enhanced cab comfort and electronic controls.
Sales of the T190 were strong across North America and Europe, with thousands of units still in operation. Its mechanical simplicity and modular design make it a favorite for retrofits and field repairs.
Conclusion
Installing a rear window in a Bobcat T190 is a manageable task with the right tools, patience, and understanding of the moulding system. While shop drawings may be elusive, practical experience and workshop manuals offer sufficient guidance. In the world of compact loaders, visibility isn’t just a convenience—it’s a safety feature, a comfort upgrade, and a mark of a well-maintained machine. And when the glass finally seats with a satisfying click, it’s a small victory that reflects care, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.