Skid Steer One-Sided Drive Failure

[MikePhua]

Understanding the Problem
A skid steer that loses drive power on one side becomes virtually inoperable, as steering relies on the independent function of both drive systems. This issue is most common in older or high-hour machines, especially those used in construction, forestry, or agriculture where debris, hydraulic contamination, or uneven wear is frequent. When a machine suddenly spins in circles or refuses to turn in one direction, it indicates a failure in either the hydraulic circuit, drive motor, or mechanical final drive on the affected side.
Common Causes of Single-Side Drive Loss
Typical failure sources can be categorized as follows:

• Hydraulic Issues
  • Low hydraulic fluid
    
  • Clogged return filters
    
  • Air in the system
    
  • Failing charge pump
    
  • Contaminated fluid causing valve blockage
    
• Drive Motor Problems
  • Worn gerotor set
    
  • Internal leakage leading to slow response
    
  • Broken shaft or stripped splines
    
• Final Drive or Chain Case Failure (on chain-driven machines)
  • Snapped drive chain
    
  • Sprocket wear
    
  • Bearing collapse
    
• Electronic or Control Issues (on modern joystick-controlled units)
  • Faulty speed sensor
    
  • Failed solenoid on one side
    
  • Calibration drift in the control module
    

Diagnostic Strategy
The most effective troubleshooting method is a step-down process:

• Verify fluid levels
  
• Swap drive hoses left-to-right to confirm if the issue follows the hydraulic path or stays with the mechanical side
  
• Check for unusual noises such as grinding or whining
  
• Inspect case drain flow to estimate internal leakage in the motor
  
• Use infrared thermometer on each drive motor after running for a few minutes. A hotter unit indicates internal slippage
  

Manufacturer Variations
Different skid steer brands use unique drive configurations:

• Bobcat typically relies on chain case systems in older models and planetary hub drives in newer ones
  
• Caterpillar and John Deere favor fully hydrostatic drives with integrated travel motors
  
• Case and New Holland often use case-drain filters that plug easily, starving one motor of flow
  

Machines with over 4,000 operating hours show a 32% higher chance of one-side failure compared to newer units, according to service center reports in North America.
Repair Options
Available repair strategies depend on the severity:

• Minor issues
  • Flush hydraulic system
    
  • Replace filters
    
  • Reseat solenoids
    
  • Recalibrate electronic controls
    
• Moderate issues
  • Rebuild drive motor with seal and bearing kit
    
  • Replace hoses and fittings
    
• Severe cases
  • Install remanufactured motor
    
  • Replace chain and sprockets as a set
    
  • Inspect frame mounting points for alignment issues
    

Prevention Techniques
Owners can significantly extend drivetrain life through simple routines:

• Warm up hydraulics before aggressive operation
  
• Replace filters every 500 hours instead of the common 1,000-hour interval
  
• Avoid spinning tracks or tires on dry pavement
  
• Periodically lift the machine to test free rotation on both sides
  

Real-World Anecdote
A landscaping contractor reported losing drive on the right side of a mid-2000s loader during snow plowing. Initially suspecting ice buildup, he discovered the chain had snapped due to excessive tension from uneven tire inflation. After replacing both chains and matching the tire diameters carefully, the machine operated flawlessly. The lesson was simple: even small oversights can deliver big downtime.
Final Advice
A one-side drive loss does not automatically mean total failure. In over half of reported cases, the root cause is hydraulic flow restriction or electronic miscommunication rather than catastrophic mechanical damage. Acting quickly prevents debris from circulating and damaging the opposite side. Early diagnosis saves both money and frustration.