7 hours ago
The Bobcat S650 skid steer is a versatile and powerful machine, ideal for a variety of jobs, from landscaping to construction. One feature that can significantly improve its performance is adding high-flow hydraulics. High-flow hydraulics enable the machine to operate more demanding attachments, such as mulching heads, snow blowers, or larger augers. However, adding high flow to an existing S650 can be a complex modification that requires a clear understanding of the system and the necessary adjustments. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of high-flow hydraulics, considerations when upgrading, and the installation process.
What is High Flow Hydraulics and How Does it Benefit the S650?
High-flow hydraulics refers to a hydraulic system designed to deliver more flow—typically over 26 gallons per minute (GPM)—to attachments that require higher volumes of fluid for operation. In skid steers like the Bobcat S650, the standard flow might be around 17-21 GPM, while high-flow systems can deliver up to 40 GPM or more, depending on the setup.
The main benefit of high-flow hydraulics is that it allows the skid steer to power heavier or more specialized attachments. These attachments require more hydraulic flow to operate efficiently, and high-flow hydraulics make it possible to use them effectively.
Common Attachments That Benefit from High Flow
Certain attachments demand more hydraulic flow to function at full capacity. These attachments include, but are not limited to:
Considerations When Upgrading to High Flow
Before deciding to upgrade your Bobcat S650 to high-flow hydraulics, it's important to evaluate several key factors:
1. Attachment Compatibility
Ensure that the attachments you intend to use are designed to run on high-flow hydraulics. Some attachments are only capable of running on standard-flow systems, and using high-flow hydraulics could potentially damage the attachment or void warranties.
2. Hydraulic System Integrity
Upgrading to high flow places additional strain on the hydraulic system. If your machine's components, such as pumps, hoses, or valves, are not rated for the higher flow rates, they may wear out more quickly or fail under load. Before upgrading, you’ll need to assess whether the existing hydraulic system is capable of handling the additional flow without overheating or overloading.
3. Cost and Complexity of the Upgrade
Adding high-flow hydraulics to the Bobcat S650 involves both time and financial investment. This is not a simple plug-and-play modification; it requires the installation of a higher-capacity hydraulic pump, upgraded valves, and sometimes additional filtration systems to ensure that the system performs efficiently. You’ll need to decide if the cost of the upgrade justifies the increased performance for your specific work needs.
4. Fuel Consumption and Efficiency
High-flow hydraulics consume more power, which can place additional strain on the engine and increase fuel consumption. This is especially true when running high-flow attachments at full capacity for long periods. Operators must balance the increased performance with the potential impact on fuel efficiency, particularly when working in applications that demand consistent high flow.
Steps to Add High Flow to Your Bobcat S650
Upgrading to high-flow hydraulics on your Bobcat S650 is a step-by-step process that requires technical expertise. Below is a general overview of the installation process:
1. Assess the Current System
Before beginning the upgrade, thoroughly inspect the current hydraulic system of your S650. You’ll need to ensure that the existing pump and components can support the high-flow system without compromising reliability. If your machine has a lower-flow pump, you’ll need to replace it with a high-flow variant capable of delivering the required output.
2. Choose the Right High-Flow Kit
Bobcat offers specific high-flow hydraulic kits for various models, including the S650. These kits are designed to integrate seamlessly with the machine’s existing systems. Depending on the model and year of your S650, there are different kits available, each with various flow capacities and performance features.
3. Install the High-Flow Hydraulic Pump
The heart of the high-flow upgrade is the hydraulic pump. Depending on your S650’s configuration, you may need to replace the existing pump with one capable of delivering the increased flow rate. Installation typically involves removing the old pump and carefully aligning the new pump to ensure compatibility with the hydraulic lines and system.
4. Upgrade the Hydraulic Lines and Hoses
Since high-flow hydraulics require more fluid to be moved through the system, the hydraulic lines and hoses must also be upgraded to accommodate the increased flow. Ensure that all connections are tight and that the hoses are properly rated for the increased pressure.
5. Install High-Flow Valves
High-flow systems often require specific valves designed to handle the higher flow rates. Install these valves as directed by the high-flow kit instructions. Ensure that the valves are set up properly to control the flow to the attachments efficiently.
6. Test the System
After installation, it's essential to test the high-flow system under various conditions. Run the system with compatible attachments to ensure the hydraulic system operates smoothly without leaks or overheating. Monitor the pressure readings and flow to make sure everything is functioning as expected.
7. Adjust Settings and Fine-Tuning
Fine-tuning the system may be necessary to optimize performance. This includes adjusting flow rates or recalibrating the control system to ensure that the attachment receives the right hydraulic pressure for its optimal performance.
Real-World Example: High Flow Upgrade in Action
A construction contractor based in the Pacific Northwest was using a Bobcat S650 with a standard-flow system. While the machine performed well for general tasks, the operator frequently struggled with larger attachments like the mulching head and snow blower, which required more power to function effectively.
The contractor decided to invest in a high-flow upgrade, opting for a Bobcat high-flow kit designed for the S650. After the upgrade, the performance was drastically improved. The mulching head operated with far more efficiency, and snow clearing during winter months became much faster, allowing the contractor to take on more jobs during the busy season.
While the initial investment was significant, the contractor quickly saw a return on investment with the increased productivity and versatility of the machine.
Conclusion: Is Adding High Flow to Your S650 Worth It?
Upgrading your Bobcat S650 to high-flow hydraulics is a great way to increase the versatility and efficiency of your skid steer, allowing it to handle larger, more powerful attachments. However, it’s crucial to evaluate the cost, benefits, and compatibility with your existing attachments before making the decision.
If your work involves demanding tasks that require higher hydraulic flow, such as land clearing or snow removal, the upgrade can significantly improve your productivity. However, for lighter work or if your attachments don’t require high flow, the upgrade may not offer a good return on investment.
As with any modification, thorough planning, proper installation, and ongoing maintenance are key to ensuring that your Bobcat S650 performs optimally with its new high-flow hydraulic system.
What is High Flow Hydraulics and How Does it Benefit the S650?
High-flow hydraulics refers to a hydraulic system designed to deliver more flow—typically over 26 gallons per minute (GPM)—to attachments that require higher volumes of fluid for operation. In skid steers like the Bobcat S650, the standard flow might be around 17-21 GPM, while high-flow systems can deliver up to 40 GPM or more, depending on the setup.
The main benefit of high-flow hydraulics is that it allows the skid steer to power heavier or more specialized attachments. These attachments require more hydraulic flow to operate efficiently, and high-flow hydraulics make it possible to use them effectively.
Common Attachments That Benefit from High Flow
Certain attachments demand more hydraulic flow to function at full capacity. These attachments include, but are not limited to:
- Mulching Heads: Used for land clearing, mulching heads demand significant hydraulic flow to operate the high-torque blades that grind trees, shrubs, and brush.
- Snow Blowers: Large snow blowers need high flow to efficiently throw snow over long distances.
- Concrete Mixers: These attachments require high flow for consistent and efficient mixing, which is crucial when working with large batches.
- Pavement Milling Attachments: These require high flow to break down asphalt or concrete effectively.
- Tree Shears: Tree shears for cutting down trees also benefit from the extra hydraulic power provided by high-flow systems.
Considerations When Upgrading to High Flow
Before deciding to upgrade your Bobcat S650 to high-flow hydraulics, it's important to evaluate several key factors:
1. Attachment Compatibility
Ensure that the attachments you intend to use are designed to run on high-flow hydraulics. Some attachments are only capable of running on standard-flow systems, and using high-flow hydraulics could potentially damage the attachment or void warranties.
2. Hydraulic System Integrity
Upgrading to high flow places additional strain on the hydraulic system. If your machine's components, such as pumps, hoses, or valves, are not rated for the higher flow rates, they may wear out more quickly or fail under load. Before upgrading, you’ll need to assess whether the existing hydraulic system is capable of handling the additional flow without overheating or overloading.
3. Cost and Complexity of the Upgrade
Adding high-flow hydraulics to the Bobcat S650 involves both time and financial investment. This is not a simple plug-and-play modification; it requires the installation of a higher-capacity hydraulic pump, upgraded valves, and sometimes additional filtration systems to ensure that the system performs efficiently. You’ll need to decide if the cost of the upgrade justifies the increased performance for your specific work needs.
4. Fuel Consumption and Efficiency
High-flow hydraulics consume more power, which can place additional strain on the engine and increase fuel consumption. This is especially true when running high-flow attachments at full capacity for long periods. Operators must balance the increased performance with the potential impact on fuel efficiency, particularly when working in applications that demand consistent high flow.
Steps to Add High Flow to Your Bobcat S650
Upgrading to high-flow hydraulics on your Bobcat S650 is a step-by-step process that requires technical expertise. Below is a general overview of the installation process:
1. Assess the Current System
Before beginning the upgrade, thoroughly inspect the current hydraulic system of your S650. You’ll need to ensure that the existing pump and components can support the high-flow system without compromising reliability. If your machine has a lower-flow pump, you’ll need to replace it with a high-flow variant capable of delivering the required output.
2. Choose the Right High-Flow Kit
Bobcat offers specific high-flow hydraulic kits for various models, including the S650. These kits are designed to integrate seamlessly with the machine’s existing systems. Depending on the model and year of your S650, there are different kits available, each with various flow capacities and performance features.
3. Install the High-Flow Hydraulic Pump
The heart of the high-flow upgrade is the hydraulic pump. Depending on your S650’s configuration, you may need to replace the existing pump with one capable of delivering the increased flow rate. Installation typically involves removing the old pump and carefully aligning the new pump to ensure compatibility with the hydraulic lines and system.
4. Upgrade the Hydraulic Lines and Hoses
Since high-flow hydraulics require more fluid to be moved through the system, the hydraulic lines and hoses must also be upgraded to accommodate the increased flow. Ensure that all connections are tight and that the hoses are properly rated for the increased pressure.
5. Install High-Flow Valves
High-flow systems often require specific valves designed to handle the higher flow rates. Install these valves as directed by the high-flow kit instructions. Ensure that the valves are set up properly to control the flow to the attachments efficiently.
6. Test the System
After installation, it's essential to test the high-flow system under various conditions. Run the system with compatible attachments to ensure the hydraulic system operates smoothly without leaks or overheating. Monitor the pressure readings and flow to make sure everything is functioning as expected.
7. Adjust Settings and Fine-Tuning
Fine-tuning the system may be necessary to optimize performance. This includes adjusting flow rates or recalibrating the control system to ensure that the attachment receives the right hydraulic pressure for its optimal performance.
Real-World Example: High Flow Upgrade in Action
A construction contractor based in the Pacific Northwest was using a Bobcat S650 with a standard-flow system. While the machine performed well for general tasks, the operator frequently struggled with larger attachments like the mulching head and snow blower, which required more power to function effectively.
The contractor decided to invest in a high-flow upgrade, opting for a Bobcat high-flow kit designed for the S650. After the upgrade, the performance was drastically improved. The mulching head operated with far more efficiency, and snow clearing during winter months became much faster, allowing the contractor to take on more jobs during the busy season.
While the initial investment was significant, the contractor quickly saw a return on investment with the increased productivity and versatility of the machine.
Conclusion: Is Adding High Flow to Your S650 Worth It?
Upgrading your Bobcat S650 to high-flow hydraulics is a great way to increase the versatility and efficiency of your skid steer, allowing it to handle larger, more powerful attachments. However, it’s crucial to evaluate the cost, benefits, and compatibility with your existing attachments before making the decision.
If your work involves demanding tasks that require higher hydraulic flow, such as land clearing or snow removal, the upgrade can significantly improve your productivity. However, for lighter work or if your attachments don’t require high flow, the upgrade may not offer a good return on investment.
As with any modification, thorough planning, proper installation, and ongoing maintenance are key to ensuring that your Bobcat S650 performs optimally with its new high-flow hydraulic system.
