6 hours ago
The Bobcat S185 skid steer loader is a versatile and powerful piece of equipment widely used in construction, landscaping, and other heavy-duty operations. However, like all machines, the S185 can experience issues from time to time. One such problem that many operators face is when the engine won’t turn off, especially when using the electric keypad for ignition. This issue can cause frustration and halt productivity, but with proper troubleshooting steps, it can often be resolved without the need for expensive repairs.
1. Understanding the Problem: Why Won’t the Engine Turn Off?
When the engine of the Bobcat S185 refuses to shut down, the first thing to check is the electric ignition keypad system. This system plays a critical role in starting and stopping the engine. A malfunctioning keypad, electrical issue, or faulty relay can prevent the engine from turning off, even when the operator attempts to engage the shutdown process.
Key Possible Causes for the Engine Not Turning Off:
If you find yourself in a situation where the Bobcat S185 engine won't turn off, follow these troubleshooting steps to isolate and fix the issue:
Step 1: Inspect the Ignition Keypad and Electrical Wiring
The first step is to inspect the electric ignition keypad. Check for any visible signs of wear or damage. If the keypad appears to be malfunctioning or the buttons are not responding, it might need to be replaced. Additionally, inspect the electrical wiring connected to the keypad. Any loose or frayed wires can cause an electrical short, preventing the engine from turning off.
Step 2: Check the Relays and Fuses
The next step is to check the relays and fuses that control the start and stop functions of the engine. If a relay is damaged or malfunctioning, it may not be sending the proper signal to stop the engine. Similarly, if a fuse has blown, it may prevent the engine from turning off as well. Replacing any faulty relays or fuses could resolve the issue.
The fuel shutoff valve is responsible for cutting off the fuel supply to the engine, which is crucial for turning it off. If the valve is sticking or malfunctioning, it may allow fuel to continue flowing to the engine even after the ignition has been turned off. Test the valve by manually engaging and disengaging it to ensure it is working properly.
Step 4: Reset the System
Sometimes, resetting the electrical system can resolve temporary glitches that cause the engine to stay on. To do this, disconnect the battery, wait for a few minutes, and reconnect it. This may help to reset the system and resolve the issue.
3. Preventing the Problem: Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Regular maintenance and inspection are key to preventing issues with the ignition system and ensuring that your Bobcat S185 continues to run smoothly. Here are some tips to help prevent engine shutdown problems:
Over the years, many Bobcat S185 operators have faced the engine shutdown issue. Here are a couple of stories that provide valuable insights into how others have dealt with this problem.
A Bobcat S185 engine that won’t turn off is a frustrating issue, but with proper troubleshooting, the cause can usually be identified and fixed. Whether it’s a faulty ignition keypad, electrical malfunction, or fuel shutoff issue, most problems can be addressed through basic diagnostic steps.
Regular maintenance, such as checking the keypad, relays, fuses, and fuel shutoff valve, is essential to keep your S185 in good working condition and avoid such issues in the future. By staying proactive with maintenance, you can ensure that your Bobcat S185 continues to perform at its best, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity on your job sites.
1. Understanding the Problem: Why Won’t the Engine Turn Off?
When the engine of the Bobcat S185 refuses to shut down, the first thing to check is the electric ignition keypad system. This system plays a critical role in starting and stopping the engine. A malfunctioning keypad, electrical issue, or faulty relay can prevent the engine from turning off, even when the operator attempts to engage the shutdown process.
Key Possible Causes for the Engine Not Turning Off:
- Faulty Ignition Keypad or Switch: The electric ignition keypad is a common culprit. If the system isn’t sending the proper signal to the engine to turn off, it can result in the engine continuing to run.
- Electrical System Malfunction: A malfunction in the electrical wiring or a short circuit in the system can cause the engine to remain on despite the operator's efforts to shut it off.
- Faulty Relays or Fuses: The relays responsible for controlling the engine's start and stop functions might be damaged or stuck, preventing the engine from shutting down. A blown fuse can also disrupt this process.
- Sticking Fuel Shutoff Valve: Another possibility is that the fuel shutoff valve is not properly engaging, causing fuel to continue flowing into the engine and preventing it from turning off.
If you find yourself in a situation where the Bobcat S185 engine won't turn off, follow these troubleshooting steps to isolate and fix the issue:
Step 1: Inspect the Ignition Keypad and Electrical Wiring
The first step is to inspect the electric ignition keypad. Check for any visible signs of wear or damage. If the keypad appears to be malfunctioning or the buttons are not responding, it might need to be replaced. Additionally, inspect the electrical wiring connected to the keypad. Any loose or frayed wires can cause an electrical short, preventing the engine from turning off.
Step 2: Check the Relays and Fuses
The next step is to check the relays and fuses that control the start and stop functions of the engine. If a relay is damaged or malfunctioning, it may not be sending the proper signal to stop the engine. Similarly, if a fuse has blown, it may prevent the engine from turning off as well. Replacing any faulty relays or fuses could resolve the issue.
- Tip: Always keep spare relays and fuses on hand for quick replacements, especially in the field where downtime can be costly.
The fuel shutoff valve is responsible for cutting off the fuel supply to the engine, which is crucial for turning it off. If the valve is sticking or malfunctioning, it may allow fuel to continue flowing to the engine even after the ignition has been turned off. Test the valve by manually engaging and disengaging it to ensure it is working properly.
Step 4: Reset the System
Sometimes, resetting the electrical system can resolve temporary glitches that cause the engine to stay on. To do this, disconnect the battery, wait for a few minutes, and reconnect it. This may help to reset the system and resolve the issue.
3. Preventing the Problem: Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Regular maintenance and inspection are key to preventing issues with the ignition system and ensuring that your Bobcat S185 continues to run smoothly. Here are some tips to help prevent engine shutdown problems:
- Inspect and Clean the Keypad: The keypad is a crucial component of the ignition system. Make sure it is clean and free of dirt or debris that could interfere with its function. Regularly inspect the keypad for signs of wear or damage.
- Check Electrical Connections: Make sure all electrical connections are tight and free from corrosion. Corroded or loose connections can cause malfunctions in the ignition system.
- Replace Worn Relays and Fuses: Regularly check the relays and fuses in the system, and replace any that show signs of wear or damage. This can help prevent unexpected failures.
- Lubricate the Fuel Shutoff Valve: Ensure that the fuel shutoff valve is properly lubricated and free from debris. A stuck or dirty valve can cause the engine to continue running even after the ignition is turned off.
- Perform Regular System Diagnostics: Regularly use a diagnostic tool to check for any potential electrical issues or error codes. Catching problems early can prevent more severe malfunctions down the road.
Over the years, many Bobcat S185 operators have faced the engine shutdown issue. Here are a couple of stories that provide valuable insights into how others have dealt with this problem.
- Story 1: Quick Fix for Ignition Keypad Issue
One operator shared his experience with a malfunctioning ignition keypad. He explained that after extensive troubleshooting, he discovered that the keypad’s internal circuit board had failed. Replacing the keypad resolved the issue, and the engine started turning off normally again. This case highlighted the importance of keeping spare parts on hand for quick fixes.
- Story 2: Electrical System Reset
Another operator had trouble with his S185 engine staying on after turning the key off. After checking the ignition system and relays with no success, he decided to disconnect the battery for several minutes and reconnect it. This simple reset resolved the issue, and the engine started turning off without any further problems. This operator emphasized the importance of performing resets in cases where electrical glitches might be the cause.
A Bobcat S185 engine that won’t turn off is a frustrating issue, but with proper troubleshooting, the cause can usually be identified and fixed. Whether it’s a faulty ignition keypad, electrical malfunction, or fuel shutoff issue, most problems can be addressed through basic diagnostic steps.
Regular maintenance, such as checking the keypad, relays, fuses, and fuel shutoff valve, is essential to keep your S185 in good working condition and avoid such issues in the future. By staying proactive with maintenance, you can ensure that your Bobcat S185 continues to perform at its best, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity on your job sites.
