Bobcat T190 Final Drive Hub Oil Service and Best Practices

[MikePhua]

The T190 and Bobcat’s Compact Track Loader Evolution
The Bobcat T190 compact track loader was introduced in the early 2000s as part of Bobcat’s push to expand its lineup of rubber-tracked machines. With an operating weight of approximately 7,600 pounds and a rated operating capacity of 1,900 pounds, the T190 quickly became a favorite among landscapers, contractors, and utility crews. Its compact footprint, vertical lift path, and robust hydraulic system made it ideal for tight job sites and multi-attachment workflows.
Bobcat, founded in North Dakota in 1947, pioneered the skid-steer loader and later expanded into compact track loaders to meet growing demand for low-ground-pressure machines. The T190 was one of the most successful models in its class, with tens of thousands sold globally before being succeeded by the T595 and other M-series loaders.
Understanding the Final Drive Hub and Oil Requirements
The T190 uses a planetary final drive system housed within sealed hub assemblies at each track. These hubs contain gears, bearings, and seals that require proper lubrication to prevent wear and overheating. Unlike the hydraulic system, the hub oil is not circulated or filtered—it remains static and must be changed periodically.
Key components inside the hub:

• Planetary gear set
  
• Tapered roller bearings
  
• Inner and outer seals
  
• Magnetic drain plug
  
• Fill and level ports
  

Terminology Note: “Final drive” refers to the last stage of power transmission from the hydraulic motor to the track. “Planetary gear” is a gear system that multiplies torque while maintaining compact size.
In 2023, a contractor in Oregon noticed excessive noise from the left hub of his T190. After draining the oil, he found metal shavings on the magnetic plug. Replacing the oil and seals prevented further damage and restored quiet operation.
Recommended Oil Type and Capacity
Bobcat specifies a gear oil for the final drive hubs, typically:

• SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil
  
• Synthetic gear oil for extended service intervals
  
• Capacity: approximately 0.5 quarts (16 ounces) per hub
  

Alternative options:

• SAE 75W-140 synthetic gear oil for extreme temperatures
  
• Biodegradable gear oil for environmentally sensitive sites
  
• Magnetic additives for improved wear detection
  

Recommendations:

• Use high-quality gear oil with anti-foaming and anti-corrosion additives
  
• Avoid mixing brands or viscosities unless confirmed compatible
  
• Check oil level every 250 hours or quarterly
  
• Change oil every 500 hours or annually, whichever comes first
  

A fleet manager in Maine switched to synthetic gear oil in all T190 hubs and extended service intervals to 750 hours without increased wear, confirmed by oil analysis.
Drain and Fill Procedure
To service the hub oil:

• Park machine on level ground and block tracks
  
• Remove track if necessary for access (optional)
  
• Locate drain plug at bottom of hub
  
• Remove plug and allow oil to drain completely
  
• Inspect magnetic plug for metal debris
  
• Reinstall drain plug with new crush washer
  
• Remove fill plug and add oil until it reaches level port
  
• Reinstall fill plug and torque to spec
  

Tips:

• Use a hand pump or squeeze bottle for controlled filling
  
• Clean plug threads and apply thread sealant if needed
  
• Record service date and hours for future reference
  
• Check for leaks after first hour of operation
  

In 2022, a technician in Texas used a borescope to inspect gear teeth through the fill port before refilling. The gears showed no pitting, confirming the hub was in good condition.
Common Issues and Preventive Measures
Operators may encounter:

• Oil leaks from outer seal due to track debris
  
• Water intrusion from pressure washing or submersion
  
• Overheating from low oil level or wrong viscosity
  
• Bearing failure from contaminated oil
  

Solutions:

• Avoid high-pressure washing near hub seals
  
• Replace seals every 2,000 hours or during track service
  
• Use magnetic drain plugs and inspect regularly
  
• Install hub guards if operating in rocky terrain
  
• Monitor hub temperature with infrared thermometer
  

A landscaper in Florida added custom guards to his T190 hubs after repeated seal failures from mulch and gravel. The guards reduced impact damage and extended seal life.
Upgrades and Long-Term Reliability
Enhancements for hub longevity:

• Retrofit synthetic oil for better thermal stability
  
• Add oil sampling ports for lab analysis
  
• Use color-coded plugs for easy identification
  
• Install remote fill lines for faster service
  
• Upgrade seals to dual-lip design for better protection
  

Preventive strategy:

• Include hub oil check in pre-shift inspection
  
• Train operators to recognize noise and vibration changes
  
• Keep service records for each hub separately
  
• Replace both hub oils during track replacement for convenience
  

In 2024, a municipal crew in Ontario added hub oil checks to their digital maintenance app, reducing missed services and improving uptime across their Bobcat fleet.
Conclusion
Final drive hub oil in the Bobcat T190 is a small but critical component of machine reliability. With proper oil selection, routine service, and attention to seal integrity, operators can prevent costly failures and extend the life of their track system. Whether grading, trenching, or hauling, the T190 depends on clean, cool, and consistent lubrication deep inside its hubs. In compact loaders, the quiet hum of a healthy hub is the sound of productivity.