Maintaining and Troubleshooting the Bobcat 751 Skid Steer Loader

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat 751 and Its Role in Compact Equipment History
The Bobcat 751 skid steer loader was introduced in the early 1990s as part of Bobcat’s push toward more powerful, hydrostatically driven compact machines. With a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,250 lbs and a 36-horsepower Kubota diesel engine, the 751 was designed to serve contractors, landscapers, and farmers who needed maneuverability and lifting power in tight spaces. Its popularity helped solidify Bobcat’s dominance in the compact loader market, with thousands of units sold across North America and Europe.
The 751 features a chain-driven final drive system, mechanical foot controls, and a simple electrical layout. While it lacks the electronic sophistication of newer models, its mechanical reliability and ease of service make it a favorite among independent operators and small fleet owners.
Common Issues and Field Observations
As the 751 ages, several recurring issues tend to surface:

• Starter engagement problems
  The starter may click but fail to crank, often due to poor ground connections, worn solenoids, or degraded battery cables.
  
• Fuel delivery inconsistencies
  Hard starting or stalling can result from clogged fuel filters, air in the lines, or a weak lift pump. The Kubota engine is sensitive to fuel pressure and requires clean diesel to maintain idle stability.
  
• Hydraulic hesitation
  Lift and tilt functions may lag or pulse, especially when cold. This is typically caused by low fluid levels, dirty filters, or worn control valve seals.
  
• Electrical quirks
  The 751’s wiring harness is prone to corrosion at connector points, especially near the starter relay and instrument panel. Flickering lights or intermittent gauge readings often trace back to ground faults.
  

A contractor in Wisconsin once reported that his 751 would only start when the bucket was fully lowered. After inspection, he found a frayed wire near the seat switch that was grounding against the frame. Replacing the wire and resecuring the harness resolved the issue.
Preventive Maintenance Recommendations
To keep the 751 running reliably:

• Replace fuel and hydraulic filters every 250 hours
  
• Inspect and clean battery terminals monthly
  
• Grease all pivot points every 50 hours
  
• Drain and refill hydraulic fluid annually
  
• Check chain case oil level and condition every 500 hours
  
• Inspect drive chains for tension and wear semi-annually
  

Use high-quality 10W-30 engine oil and ISO 46 hydraulic fluid unless operating in extreme climates. Always bleed the fuel system after filter changes to prevent air lock.
Upgrades and Retrofit Options
While the 751 is mechanically simple, several upgrades can improve usability:

• Install LED work lights for better visibility
  
• Replace analog gauges with digital retrofit kits
  
• Add a quick-connect auxiliary hydraulic coupler for attachments
  
• Upgrade the seat and lap bar for operator comfort
  
• Install a battery disconnect switch to prevent parasitic drain
  

Some owners have retrofitted joystick controls from later models, though this requires custom fabrication and hydraulic rerouting.
A Story from the Field
In 2022, a landscaping crew in Ontario used a Bobcat 751 to clear brush and move gravel on a residential site. Mid-project, the loader began stalling during turns. After checking the fuel system, they discovered that the lift pump diaphragm had cracked, allowing air into the lines. A local shop rebuilt the pump, and the crew added a clear fuel line section to monitor flow. The machine ran another 300 hours that season without issue.
Conclusion
The Bobcat 751 remains a dependable workhorse decades after its release. With basic mechanical upkeep and attention to wiring and fuel delivery, it can outperform newer machines in simplicity and cost-efficiency. In compact equipment, reliability often comes from knowing your machine’s quirks. When the 751 is cared for, it doesn’t just move material—it moves with purpose.