3 hours ago
When servicing heavy equipment like the Bobcat 773G skid steer, one of the most common tasks that technicians and owners may encounter is removing or replacing the drive pump. This process can be a bit tricky, as it involves working with the machine's hydraulic system and requires careful handling to avoid causing further issues. In this article, we will walk through the key steps and considerations involved in safely removing a drive pump from a Bobcat 773G, as well as the tools and techniques that will help you complete the task efficiently.
Understanding the Drive Pump and Its Role
Before diving into the removal process, it is important to understand the function of the drive pump in a skid steer. The drive pump is a critical component of the hydraulic system. It provides the necessary hydraulic pressure to power the wheels or tracks of the skid steer, enabling it to move and perform heavy-duty tasks.
In the Bobcat 773G, the drive pump is directly connected to the hydraulic motor, and its failure can result in reduced mobility or complete loss of power. Common symptoms of a malfunctioning drive pump include sluggish movement, a failure to engage drive, or abnormal sounds coming from the pump area.
Preparing for the Drive Pump Removal
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before starting the removal process, it is important to gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right tools will make the process smoother and reduce the risk of damage to surrounding components. Here is a list of tools and items you will need:
Working with hydraulics and heavy equipment can be dangerous, so it is critical to follow safety protocols. Before starting, make sure to:
1. Locate the Drive Pump
The drive pump in the Bobcat 773G is typically located near the hydraulic motor and is connected to the machine’s engine via a drive shaft. To gain access, you may need to remove any covers or panels that are obstructing your view.
Once the pump is located, the next step is to disconnect the hydraulic lines connected to the drive pump. These lines carry pressurized hydraulic fluid, so it is crucial to handle them with care.
Next, use your wrenches or socket set to remove the bolts securing the pump to its mount. These bolts are often tightly secured, so make sure you have the proper leverage to loosen them.
The drive shaft is what connects the pump to the hydraulic motor or engine. Depending on your specific model, the drive shaft may require a special tool to detach it. Make sure to carefully note how the drive shaft is positioned so you can reinstall it properly later.
Once the hydraulic lines and drive shaft are disconnected, and the mounting bolts are removed, carefully lift the pump out of its housing. It may be heavy, so having a second set of hands is recommended. Ensure that you support the pump properly during removal to avoid damaging it or surrounding components.
After removing the drive pump, inspect it for signs of wear, cracks, or other damage. Common issues include damaged seals, worn-out gears, or clogged filters. If the pump is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced with a new unit.
1. Clean the Pump Area
Before installing the new or repaired drive pump, thoroughly clean the pump housing and surrounding components to remove dirt, debris, or old hydraulic fluid. This will ensure a proper seal and prevent contamination of the hydraulic system.
2. Install the New Pump
Carefully place the new or repaired drive pump into the housing. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the mounting holes and drive shaft.
Reconnect all hydraulic lines to the drive pump, making sure to tighten the fittings securely. Ensure there are no leaks when the system is pressurized.
4. Reinstall the Drive Shaft
Carefully align the drive shaft with the pump and secure it back into place. Ensure that the shaft is correctly oriented for proper functionality.
5. Tighten the Mounting Bolts
Secure the drive pump with the mounting bolts and tighten them to the recommended torque specification. A torque wrench should be used to ensure that the bolts are tightened correctly.
6. Refill Hydraulic Fluid
Once the pump is reinstalled, refill the hydraulic system with the appropriate type and amount of hydraulic fluid. Make sure to check for leaks before starting the machine.
Testing the Skid Steer
After reassembling everything, reconnect the battery and start the skid steer. Test the drive system by operating the machine at low speeds and checking for any unusual sounds or performance issues. Pay close attention to the hydraulic system for leaks or irregularities.
Removing and replacing a drive pump on a Bobcat 773G skid steer is a manageable task for skilled technicians, but it requires attention to detail and proper precautions. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can ensure that the job is done correctly, restoring your skid steer’s performance and keeping it running smoothly. Always remember to use the correct tools, prioritize safety, and check for leaks and proper function after the reinstallation.
Understanding the Drive Pump and Its Role
Before diving into the removal process, it is important to understand the function of the drive pump in a skid steer. The drive pump is a critical component of the hydraulic system. It provides the necessary hydraulic pressure to power the wheels or tracks of the skid steer, enabling it to move and perform heavy-duty tasks.
In the Bobcat 773G, the drive pump is directly connected to the hydraulic motor, and its failure can result in reduced mobility or complete loss of power. Common symptoms of a malfunctioning drive pump include sluggish movement, a failure to engage drive, or abnormal sounds coming from the pump area.
Preparing for the Drive Pump Removal
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before starting the removal process, it is important to gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right tools will make the process smoother and reduce the risk of damage to surrounding components. Here is a list of tools and items you will need:
- Hydraulic fluid to top off the system
- Wrenches (including adjustable wrenches)
- Socket set and ratchet wrench
- Hydraulic jack or lift for support
- Torque wrench for reassembly
- Loctite or thread sealant for reinstallation
- Replacement seals and gaskets (if necessary)
Working with hydraulics and heavy equipment can be dangerous, so it is critical to follow safety protocols. Before starting, make sure to:
- Disconnect the Battery: This will prevent any electrical accidents or accidental engagement of machinery while you are working on the drive pump.
- Release Hydraulic Pressure: Before loosening any hydraulic fittings, release the pressure from the system. This can be done by starting the machine and allowing it to operate for a few seconds, then turning it off and draining the hydraulic fluid if necessary.
- Lift the Skid Steer: Use a hydraulic jack or lift to raise the front of the skid steer if needed to give yourself better access to the drive pump.
1. Locate the Drive Pump
The drive pump in the Bobcat 773G is typically located near the hydraulic motor and is connected to the machine’s engine via a drive shaft. To gain access, you may need to remove any covers or panels that are obstructing your view.
- Pro Tip: Refer to the Bobcat 773G operator manual for specific diagrams and details on the pump’s location to avoid unnecessary disassembly.
Once the pump is located, the next step is to disconnect the hydraulic lines connected to the drive pump. These lines carry pressurized hydraulic fluid, so it is crucial to handle them with care.
- Tip: Place a bucket or container underneath to catch any fluid that may spill when disconnecting the lines.
- Caution: Use caution when loosening hydraulic fittings, as hydraulic fluid can be under high pressure. Wear safety gloves and eye protection.
Next, use your wrenches or socket set to remove the bolts securing the pump to its mount. These bolts are often tightly secured, so make sure you have the proper leverage to loosen them.
- Tip: If the bolts are difficult to remove, try applying some penetrating oil to ease the process.
The drive shaft is what connects the pump to the hydraulic motor or engine. Depending on your specific model, the drive shaft may require a special tool to detach it. Make sure to carefully note how the drive shaft is positioned so you can reinstall it properly later.
- Tip: Mark the orientation of the drive shaft or take photos for easier reassembly.
Once the hydraulic lines and drive shaft are disconnected, and the mounting bolts are removed, carefully lift the pump out of its housing. It may be heavy, so having a second set of hands is recommended. Ensure that you support the pump properly during removal to avoid damaging it or surrounding components.
- Pro Tip: If the pump is stuck, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Avoid using excessive force.
After removing the drive pump, inspect it for signs of wear, cracks, or other damage. Common issues include damaged seals, worn-out gears, or clogged filters. If the pump is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced with a new unit.
- Tip: If the pump appears to be in good condition but is not functioning properly, consider checking for issues with the hydraulic motor, control valve, or other components in the hydraulic system.
1. Clean the Pump Area
Before installing the new or repaired drive pump, thoroughly clean the pump housing and surrounding components to remove dirt, debris, or old hydraulic fluid. This will ensure a proper seal and prevent contamination of the hydraulic system.
2. Install the New Pump
Carefully place the new or repaired drive pump into the housing. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the mounting holes and drive shaft.
- Tip: Apply a small amount of thread sealant or Loctite to the mounting bolts to prevent leaks or loosening over time.
Reconnect all hydraulic lines to the drive pump, making sure to tighten the fittings securely. Ensure there are no leaks when the system is pressurized.
4. Reinstall the Drive Shaft
Carefully align the drive shaft with the pump and secure it back into place. Ensure that the shaft is correctly oriented for proper functionality.
5. Tighten the Mounting Bolts
Secure the drive pump with the mounting bolts and tighten them to the recommended torque specification. A torque wrench should be used to ensure that the bolts are tightened correctly.
6. Refill Hydraulic Fluid
Once the pump is reinstalled, refill the hydraulic system with the appropriate type and amount of hydraulic fluid. Make sure to check for leaks before starting the machine.
Testing the Skid Steer
After reassembling everything, reconnect the battery and start the skid steer. Test the drive system by operating the machine at low speeds and checking for any unusual sounds or performance issues. Pay close attention to the hydraulic system for leaks or irregularities.
- Pro Tip: If you notice any issues during testing, double-check all connections and fittings before attempting further operation.
Removing and replacing a drive pump on a Bobcat 773G skid steer is a manageable task for skilled technicians, but it requires attention to detail and proper precautions. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can ensure that the job is done correctly, restoring your skid steer’s performance and keeping it running smoothly. Always remember to use the correct tools, prioritize safety, and check for leaks and proper function after the reinstallation.
