08-10-2025, 08:28 AM
Introduction
The Bobcat 873 is a powerful and versatile skid steer loader, widely used in construction, landscaping, and agricultural work. Like all machinery, the Bobcat 873 is made up of numerous parts that need to be correctly identified for maintenance, repairs, and replacement. Proper part identification ensures that repairs are carried out efficiently, reduces downtime, and helps prevent costly mistakes in purchasing or servicing the equipment.
This article covers the key parts of the Bobcat 873, how to identify them, common part replacement procedures, and tips on finding the right components for repairs.
Key Components of the Bobcat 873
Understanding the main components of the Bobcat 873 is essential for identifying parts. These components include the engine, hydraulic system, electrical system, undercarriage, and more. Below are the major systems and key parts to focus on:
A contractor using a 1998 Bobcat 873 noticed that the loader's hydraulic system was functioning slowly, and the arm struggled to lift heavy loads. After conducting a quick visual inspection, the contractor identified signs of fluid leakage around the hydraulic pump. By referring to the service manual, they cross-referenced the pump's part number and confirmed it needed replacement. The replacement hydraulic pump, obtained through an authorized dealer, restored full function to the skid steer.
Conclusion
Proper part identification for the Bobcat 873 is critical for maintaining the equipment's efficiency and performance. By familiarizing yourself with the major systems, such as the engine, hydraulics, electrical system, and undercarriage, you can quickly identify worn or damaged parts and ensure timely replacements. Always use the service manual, part catalogs, and cross-referencing tools to verify part numbers and avoid purchasing the wrong components. Regular maintenance and prompt identification of issues will prolong the life of your Bobcat 873 and ensure it remains a reliable workhorse on any job site.
The Bobcat 873 is a powerful and versatile skid steer loader, widely used in construction, landscaping, and agricultural work. Like all machinery, the Bobcat 873 is made up of numerous parts that need to be correctly identified for maintenance, repairs, and replacement. Proper part identification ensures that repairs are carried out efficiently, reduces downtime, and helps prevent costly mistakes in purchasing or servicing the equipment.
This article covers the key parts of the Bobcat 873, how to identify them, common part replacement procedures, and tips on finding the right components for repairs.
Key Components of the Bobcat 873
Understanding the main components of the Bobcat 873 is essential for identifying parts. These components include the engine, hydraulic system, electrical system, undercarriage, and more. Below are the major systems and key parts to focus on:
- Engine and Powertrain
- Engine: The Bobcat 873 is typically powered by a TLD or Perkins engine, depending on the specific model and its configuration. Engine parts such as the air filter, fuel injectors, alternator, and starter motor are crucial for smooth operation.
- Fuel System: The fuel tank, fuel filter, fuel pump, and fuel injectors are components to watch for wear and tear.
- Transmission: The powertrain includes the hydrostatic transmission system and related components, which are essential for driving the skid steer.
- Engine: The Bobcat 873 is typically powered by a TLD or Perkins engine, depending on the specific model and its configuration. Engine parts such as the air filter, fuel injectors, alternator, and starter motor are crucial for smooth operation.
- Hydraulic System
- Hydraulic Pumps: The 873 relies on hydraulic pumps for its lift arms, bucket, and other attachments. Issues with the hydraulic pump or hoses can result in a loss of power or control.
- Hydraulic Cylinders: The lift arm cylinders, bucket cylinders, and tilt cylinders are vital components. Over time, they may leak or require recalibration.
- Hydraulic Hoses: These are critical for transferring hydraulic fluid. Worn hoses can cause fluid leaks and system failures.
- Hydraulic Pumps: The 873 relies on hydraulic pumps for its lift arms, bucket, and other attachments. Issues with the hydraulic pump or hoses can result in a loss of power or control.
- Electrical System
- Alternator and Battery: The electrical system in the Bobcat 873 is essential for starting the engine and powering lights, sensors, and controls. A faulty alternator can result in battery discharge, while an old battery can fail to start the engine.
- Wiring Harness: Over time, wiring may become worn or corroded, leading to electrical failures or malfunctions.
- Alternator and Battery: The electrical system in the Bobcat 873 is essential for starting the engine and powering lights, sensors, and controls. A faulty alternator can result in battery discharge, while an old battery can fail to start the engine.
- Undercarriage and Track System
- Tracks: The 873 uses a track system to provide stability on rough terrain. Track tension, wear, and alignment are important to check regularly.
- Rollers and Idlers: These components support the tracks and guide them along the ground. Wear or damage can cause excessive track wear or failure.
- Track Drive Motors: If you experience reduced speed or erratic movements, the track drive motors may need to be inspected or replaced.
- Tracks: The 873 uses a track system to provide stability on rough terrain. Track tension, wear, and alignment are important to check regularly.
- Cab and Controls
- Joystick Controllers: The joystick controls are essential for maneuvering the skid steer and operating its various functions. Faulty joysticks can lead to poor control or loss of function.
- Seat and Operator Comfort: The seat, suspension, and seatbelt are often overlooked but should be inspected for wear, comfort, and safety.
- Joystick Controllers: The joystick controls are essential for maneuvering the skid steer and operating its various functions. Faulty joysticks can lead to poor control or loss of function.
- Engine or Power Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty starting, poor fuel economy.
- Potential Causes: Worn fuel filters, clogged injectors, air filter blockages, or malfunctioning pumps.
- Part Identification: Refer to the engine model (TLD or Perkins) to find specific parts like air filters, fuel filters, or fuel pumps. Cross-reference part numbers from the manual or parts catalog to ensure compatibility.
- Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty starting, poor fuel economy.
- Hydraulic Failures
- Symptoms: Slow response, weak lifting ability, leaks.
- Potential Causes: Worn hydraulic hoses, faulty hydraulic cylinders, or a malfunctioning pump.
- Part Identification: Use the machine's hydraulic system specifications to identify the correct cylinders, hoses, or pumps. Ensure that the part numbers match those in the Bobcat 873 service manual.
- Symptoms: Slow response, weak lifting ability, leaks.
- Electrical Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Inconsistent starting, dead battery, malfunctioning lights.
- Potential Causes: Faulty alternator, corroded wiring, or dead battery.
- Part Identification: Start by identifying the alternator's specifications and model. For wiring issues, check the wiring harness for continuity and signs of damage. Refer to the service manual for specific electrical components.
- Symptoms: Inconsistent starting, dead battery, malfunctioning lights.
- Track or Undercarriage Issues
- Symptoms: Uneven wear, loss of traction, difficulty turning.
- Potential Causes: Misaligned tracks, worn-out rollers or drive motors.
- Part Identification: Track rollers and drive motors should be identified by their part numbers, which can be cross-referenced against the manufacturer’s catalog. If the tracks are worn, replacing them with OEM parts is recommended to ensure compatibility.
- Symptoms: Uneven wear, loss of traction, difficulty turning.
- Consult the Service Manual
- Always refer to the Bobcat 873 service manual for part numbers, specifications, and diagrams. The manual will provide detailed instructions on how to identify and replace specific parts.
- Always refer to the Bobcat 873 service manual for part numbers, specifications, and diagrams. The manual will provide detailed instructions on how to identify and replace specific parts.
- Use Part Identification Tools
- Bobcat provides an online parts lookup tool that allows you to search by model number, component, or part number. This tool is helpful for locating exact part specifications and ordering replacements.
- Many parts distributors and manufacturers offer detailed parts catalogs, which can also assist in finding the correct components.
- Bobcat provides an online parts lookup tool that allows you to search by model number, component, or part number. This tool is helpful for locating exact part specifications and ordering replacements.
- Cross-Referencing Part Numbers
- When identifying parts, it is essential to cross-reference part numbers from the machine’s manual or from online tools with the part you need to replace. This ensures that you order the correct part and avoid mistakes.
- When identifying parts, it is essential to cross-reference part numbers from the machine’s manual or from online tools with the part you need to replace. This ensures that you order the correct part and avoid mistakes.
- Check Manufacturer Labels
- Many parts, such as hydraulic pumps or engine components, have manufacturer labels that include the part number, model, and other identifying information. Use this information to confirm the part you need.
- Many parts, such as hydraulic pumps or engine components, have manufacturer labels that include the part number, model, and other identifying information. Use this information to confirm the part you need.
A contractor using a 1998 Bobcat 873 noticed that the loader's hydraulic system was functioning slowly, and the arm struggled to lift heavy loads. After conducting a quick visual inspection, the contractor identified signs of fluid leakage around the hydraulic pump. By referring to the service manual, they cross-referenced the pump's part number and confirmed it needed replacement. The replacement hydraulic pump, obtained through an authorized dealer, restored full function to the skid steer.
Conclusion
Proper part identification for the Bobcat 873 is critical for maintaining the equipment's efficiency and performance. By familiarizing yourself with the major systems, such as the engine, hydraulics, electrical system, and undercarriage, you can quickly identify worn or damaged parts and ensure timely replacements. Always use the service manual, part catalogs, and cross-referencing tools to verify part numbers and avoid purchasing the wrong components. Regular maintenance and prompt identification of issues will prolong the life of your Bobcat 873 and ensure it remains a reliable workhorse on any job site.
