Addressing Oil and Fluid Leaks in Bobcat 873 Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat 873 skid steer is a versatile and powerful machine, known for its efficiency in a wide range of construction, landscaping, and agricultural tasks. With its compact design and robust hydraulic system, it can tackle heavy lifting, digging, and moving materials in confined spaces. However, like all heavy machinery, the Bobcat 873 is prone to wear and tear, and one common issue that operators face is oil and fluid leaks.
These leaks can arise from various components and can significantly affect the machine’s performance if left unaddressed. In this article, we will explore the causes, diagnosis, and solutions to oil and fluid leaks in the Bobcat 873 skid steer, offering insights into the potential issues and how to mitigate them.
Understanding the Bobcat 873 Skid Steer
The Bobcat 873 was introduced as part of Bobcat's larger line of skid steers designed for demanding applications. Featuring a rated operating capacity of 1,750 lbs, the 873 has an efficient hydraulic system capable of lifting heavy loads with its vertical lift arms. Over the years, it has become a staple in many construction and agricultural operations due to its ease of maneuverability, powerful hydraulics, and reliability.
Like other Bobcat skid steers, the 873 utilizes hydraulic oil to power the lifting arms, wheels, and various attachments. Given the machine's intense use, its hydraulic system is critical to its performance. A leak in this system, especially in the hydraulic fluid, can cause a loss of power and efficiency, rendering the machine less effective and increasing the risk of further damage.
Common Causes of Oil and Fluid Leaks in Bobcat 873
Oil and fluid leaks in the Bobcat 873 can stem from a variety of sources, with the most common being the hydraulic system. Below are the primary culprits:

1. Hydraulic Hose Damage: Over time, hydraulic hoses can wear out due to the high pressure within the system. These hoses are subject to constant flexing, exposure to extreme temperatures, and friction from surrounding components. A damaged hose can lead to fluid leaks, which can affect the machine’s hydraulic system performance.
   
2. Hydraulic Cylinder Seals: The hydraulic cylinders in the Bobcat 873, responsible for lifting and lowering the arms, are sealed with rubber or synthetic seals that can degrade over time. If these seals are worn, cracked, or damaged, hydraulic fluid can leak from the cylinders, reducing the machine's lifting capacity and efficiency.
   
3. Hydraulic Pump Leaks: The hydraulic pump, which generates the necessary fluid pressure for the hydraulic system, can sometimes develop leaks due to wear or improper maintenance. Fluid leakage from the pump can be caused by faulty seals or gaskets, or the pump's connections may become loose, causing pressure loss.
   
4. Transmission and Engine Oil Leaks: While hydraulic fluid leaks are often the main concern, Bobcat 873 owners also need to be aware of leaks related to the engine and transmission oil. These leaks typically originate from worn seals or gaskets around the engine or transmission housing. As with any heavy machinery, maintaining proper oil levels is crucial to avoid further engine or transmission damage.
   
5. Fluid Reservoir Cap or Drain Plug Issues: Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as a loose or improperly sealed fluid reservoir cap. If the cap isn’t tightly fastened, fluid can leak out, especially when the machine is in motion. Similarly, a loose drain plug can lead to slow, ongoing fluid loss.
   
6. Oil Cooler Leaks: The Bobcat 873, like many skid steers, uses an oil cooler to maintain proper operating temperatures for its hydraulic system. If the cooler becomes damaged or if its seals deteriorate, it can lead to fluid leaks, affecting the system’s performance and causing overheating issues.
   

Diagnosing Oil and Fluid Leaks in Bobcat 873
Diagnosing oil and fluid leaks in a Bobcat 873 requires a methodical approach. Here are the steps that can help pinpoint the source of the issue:

1. Visual Inspection: Start by thoroughly inspecting the machine’s hydraulic system. Look for any obvious signs of leakage around the hoses, cylinders, and hydraulic pump. Pay close attention to the connections where hoses meet fittings, as these are common leak points.
   
2. Check Fluid Levels: Monitor the fluid levels in the hydraulic reservoir, engine, and transmission. If the levels are dropping significantly without visible signs of leakage, it may indicate an internal leak or an issue with the seals.
   
3. Clean the Area: Clean the machine’s engine and hydraulic system thoroughly to remove any accumulated dirt and grime. This makes it easier to spot new leaks as you operate the machine.
   
4. Operate the Skid Steer: After cleaning, run the skid steer through its normal operational motions. This will pressurize the hydraulic system and may cause hidden leaks to become more visible. Check for fluid pooling on the ground or dripping from various components.
   
5. Pressure Testing: For more advanced diagnostic work, pressure testing of the hydraulic system can be performed. This test can help detect leaks in the hydraulic pump or cylinders that are not readily visible during normal inspection.
   

Solutions to Address Bobcat 873 Oil and Fluid Leaks
Once the source of the leak has been identified, it’s important to take appropriate steps to address the issue. Here are the common solutions for fixing oil and fluid leaks in the Bobcat 873:

1. Replace Damaged Hydraulic Hoses: If a hydraulic hose is damaged, it should be replaced with a new, high-quality hose that meets the specifications of the Bobcat 873. Ensure that the new hose is properly installed, with secure fittings and no kinks or twists that could cause further damage.
   
2. Seal or Replace Hydraulic Cylinders: If the hydraulic cylinder seals are the issue, you can either replace the seals yourself (if you have the proper tools and experience) or have the cylinders rebuilt by a professional. In some cases, if the cylinders are extensively damaged, they may need to be replaced entirely.
   
3. Replace Worn Gaskets or Seals: For leaks around the hydraulic pump or the engine and transmission, replace the worn gaskets or seals. Ensure that all parts are compatible with the Bobcat 873 model to prevent future leaks.
   
4. Tighten or Replace the Fluid Reservoir Cap: If the fluid reservoir cap or drain plug is loose or damaged, it can be tightened or replaced to prevent further fluid loss. Always check the cap regularly to ensure a secure fit.
   
5. Repair or Replace the Oil Cooler: If the oil cooler is leaking, it will need to be either repaired or replaced, depending on the extent of the damage. If the cooler is severely damaged, consider investing in a high-quality replacement that fits the Bobcat 873.
   

Preventing Future Leaks
Preventing oil and fluid leaks in your Bobcat 873 requires regular maintenance and vigilant inspections. Here are some steps to extend the lifespan of your machine and prevent future leaks:

1. Regular Fluid Checks: Keep track of your fluid levels, and top up or change fluids as necessary. Ensure that the fluids are clean and free from contaminants.
   
2. Routine Inspections: Perform regular inspections of the hydraulic system, engine, and transmission to detect any early signs of wear or leaks. Catching small issues early can prevent more significant problems down the road.
   
3. Use High-Quality Parts: When replacing hoses, seals, and other components, always opt for high-quality, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts to ensure proper fitment and durability.
   
4. Service the Machine Regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s service intervals and perform scheduled maintenance to keep the Bobcat 873 in optimal condition.
   

Conclusion
Oil and fluid leaks in the Bobcat 873 skid steer are common but manageable issues. By understanding the causes, diagnosing the problem accurately, and addressing it with the right solutions, operators can keep their machines running smoothly and avoid costly downtime. Regular maintenance, vigilant inspections, and prompt repairs are key to extending the life of your Bobcat 873 and ensuring its continued performance in demanding tasks.