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The Bobcat 873 Series F skid-steer loader is a versatile and powerful piece of equipment designed for various industries, including construction, landscaping, and agriculture. One of its key features is the auxiliary hydraulic system, which allows operators to run a variety of attachments, expanding the loader's functionality. This system can be especially useful for tasks that require high hydraulic power, such as operating augers, breakers, and grapples. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of the 873’s auxiliary hydraulic system, how it works, and common questions and solutions that operators face with this feature.
The Bobcat 873 Series F and Its Auxiliary Hydraulics
Released in the late 1990s, the Bobcat 873 Series F skid-steer loader is known for its strength and durability. With a rated operating capacity of around 1,750 lbs (794 kg) and a lift height of over 11 feet (3.35 meters), the 873 Series F is designed to handle a wide range of attachments and challenging tasks.
The auxiliary hydraulic system on the 873 Series F allows the loader to power hydraulic attachments, such as hydraulic breakers, brush cutters, tilting buckets, and hydraulic hammers. This system is an essential part of the loader, especially for users who need versatility and power to operate different tools without the need for a separate hydraulic power unit.
Types of Auxiliary Hydraulics on the 873
There are generally two types of auxiliary hydraulic systems used in skid-steer loaders like the Bobcat 873: standard flow and high flow systems.
When dealing with the auxiliary hydraulics of the 873 Series F, understanding the system’s flow rate and pressure settings is crucial. The flow rate determines how much fluid the pump can supply to an attachment per minute, directly influencing the performance of the attachment. For example, high-flow attachments require a high GPM to operate at peak efficiency.
The pressure settings, usually indicated in PSI (pounds per square inch), determine the force exerted by the hydraulic system. Higher pressure allows attachments to perform more intense tasks but may also require a machine capable of handling such demands without overheating or causing system damage.
Common Issues with the Auxiliary Hydraulics on the Bobcat 873
Though the Bobcat 873 Series F is a highly reliable machine, operators may encounter some common issues with the auxiliary hydraulic system. Below are some of the most frequently reported problems and their potential solutions:
Maintaining the auxiliary hydraulics on the Bobcat 873 Series F is essential for ensuring the loader’s long-term reliability. Here are some maintenance tips to help keep the system running smoothly:
The ability to operate multiple attachments with a single machine is a game-changer for many industries. For instance, the Bobcat 873 with its auxiliary hydraulics system allows contractors to switch between attachments quickly, saving time and money. Instead of needing multiple machines to perform different tasks, a single 873 loader with a variety of compatible hydraulic attachments can handle everything from digging to grading and even demolition.
This versatility is especially important in industries where job site space is limited and time is of the essence. Whether it's a tight construction site or a busy agricultural operation, the 873 allows for seamless transitions between tasks, increasing efficiency and reducing the need for additional equipment.
Conclusion
The Bobcat 873 Series F skid-steer loader is a highly capable and versatile machine, with the auxiliary hydraulic system being a key feature that expands its range of applications. By understanding the different types of auxiliary hydraulics, as well as common issues and maintenance practices, operators can ensure the system functions at peak performance. Whether you’re using standard flow or high flow attachments, the Bobcat 873 delivers the power and flexibility needed for a wide variety of tasks, making it a reliable choice for operators in various industries.
The Bobcat 873 Series F and Its Auxiliary Hydraulics
Released in the late 1990s, the Bobcat 873 Series F skid-steer loader is known for its strength and durability. With a rated operating capacity of around 1,750 lbs (794 kg) and a lift height of over 11 feet (3.35 meters), the 873 Series F is designed to handle a wide range of attachments and challenging tasks.
The auxiliary hydraulic system on the 873 Series F allows the loader to power hydraulic attachments, such as hydraulic breakers, brush cutters, tilting buckets, and hydraulic hammers. This system is an essential part of the loader, especially for users who need versatility and power to operate different tools without the need for a separate hydraulic power unit.
Types of Auxiliary Hydraulics on the 873
There are generally two types of auxiliary hydraulic systems used in skid-steer loaders like the Bobcat 873: standard flow and high flow systems.
- Standard Flow Auxiliary Hydraulics: This system operates at a lower pressure and flow rate, typically ranging from 10-15 GPM (gallons per minute). It’s suitable for most attachments like augers and standard hydraulic breakers.
- High Flow Auxiliary Hydraulics: This system delivers higher pressure and flow rates, usually between 20-30 GPM, making it ideal for more demanding attachments like high-powered hydraulic hammers, snow blowers, and hydraulic mulchers. The high flow option allows the 873 to perform heavier-duty tasks with more efficiency.
When dealing with the auxiliary hydraulics of the 873 Series F, understanding the system’s flow rate and pressure settings is crucial. The flow rate determines how much fluid the pump can supply to an attachment per minute, directly influencing the performance of the attachment. For example, high-flow attachments require a high GPM to operate at peak efficiency.
The pressure settings, usually indicated in PSI (pounds per square inch), determine the force exerted by the hydraulic system. Higher pressure allows attachments to perform more intense tasks but may also require a machine capable of handling such demands without overheating or causing system damage.
Common Issues with the Auxiliary Hydraulics on the Bobcat 873
Though the Bobcat 873 Series F is a highly reliable machine, operators may encounter some common issues with the auxiliary hydraulic system. Below are some of the most frequently reported problems and their potential solutions:
- Low Hydraulic Pressure
- Problem: If the hydraulic pressure is lower than expected, attachments may not function properly, or they may operate sluggishly.
- Solution: Check for hydraulic fluid levels and leaks in the system. Low fluid or leaks can cause pressure loss. Also, inspect the hydraulic filter for blockages or damage, and replace it if necessary.
- Problem: If the hydraulic pressure is lower than expected, attachments may not function properly, or they may operate sluggishly.
- Inconsistent Hydraulic Flow
- Problem: Inconsistent or erratic flow can cause attachments to operate unevenly or fail to function entirely.
- Solution: Inspect the auxiliary hydraulic lines for blockages or damage. Air trapped in the system could also cause flow inconsistencies, so bleeding the system may help. Additionally, check the flow control valve and ensure it’s set correctly.
- Problem: Inconsistent or erratic flow can cause attachments to operate unevenly or fail to function entirely.
- Attachment Compatibility
- Problem: Some attachments may not perform optimally if they are not properly matched to the 873’s auxiliary hydraulic system.
- Solution: Always check the required hydraulic flow and pressure specifications for the attachments. Using an attachment that exceeds the system's flow or pressure limits can result in poor performance or damage.
- Problem: Some attachments may not perform optimally if they are not properly matched to the 873’s auxiliary hydraulic system.
- Overheating
- Problem: Excessive use of high-flow attachments can lead to overheating of the hydraulic system, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging components.
- Solution: Regularly monitor the temperature of the hydraulic fluid, and ensure that the machine is being used within its design limits. If overheating continues, consider adding an additional cooling system or reducing the workload on the auxiliary hydraulics.
- Problem: Excessive use of high-flow attachments can lead to overheating of the hydraulic system, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging components.
Maintaining the auxiliary hydraulics on the Bobcat 873 Series F is essential for ensuring the loader’s long-term reliability. Here are some maintenance tips to help keep the system running smoothly:
- Regular Fluid Changes: Hydraulic fluid should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Old or contaminated fluid can lead to poor performance and damage the system.
- Check Filters: The hydraulic system has filters that need to be cleaned or replaced regularly to ensure smooth operation.
- Inspect Hoses and Fittings: Regularly check the hoses and fittings for wear, cracks, or leaks. Worn hoses should be replaced immediately to avoid fluid loss and ensure safety.
- Bleed the System: If you notice inconsistent performance from your attachments, air in the hydraulic lines might be the cause. Bleeding the system can resolve this issue and restore proper flow.
- Check for Proper Attachment Connection: Ensure that the attachment is properly connected to the hydraulic couplings. A poor connection can cause the attachment to perform poorly or even fail.
The ability to operate multiple attachments with a single machine is a game-changer for many industries. For instance, the Bobcat 873 with its auxiliary hydraulics system allows contractors to switch between attachments quickly, saving time and money. Instead of needing multiple machines to perform different tasks, a single 873 loader with a variety of compatible hydraulic attachments can handle everything from digging to grading and even demolition.
This versatility is especially important in industries where job site space is limited and time is of the essence. Whether it's a tight construction site or a busy agricultural operation, the 873 allows for seamless transitions between tasks, increasing efficiency and reducing the need for additional equipment.
Conclusion
The Bobcat 873 Series F skid-steer loader is a highly capable and versatile machine, with the auxiliary hydraulic system being a key feature that expands its range of applications. By understanding the different types of auxiliary hydraulics, as well as common issues and maintenance practices, operators can ensure the system functions at peak performance. Whether you’re using standard flow or high flow attachments, the Bobcat 873 delivers the power and flexibility needed for a wide variety of tasks, making it a reliable choice for operators in various industries.
