5 hours ago
Background and Model Overview
The Bobcat S250 is a vertical‑lift skid‑steer loader manufactured by Bobcat, a leading brand under Doosan Bobcat with a long history in compact construction equipment. The S‑series machines have been widely adopted for utility work, landscaping, construction, and farm tasks due to their combination of solid lifting power, good hydraulic flow, and relatively compact footprint. The S250 was produced in the 2000s, and many examples remain in service, appreciated for their reliability and parts availability.
Performance Specifications
Design & Key Features
Common Issues & Operational Feedback
Maintenance Tips & Recommendations
Real‑World Use Story
A small contractor purchased a 2003 Bobcat S250 with ~2,500 operating hours for under $9,000. Initially, everything ran smoothly. After a few weeks, the right-side drive motor began feeling weak. The mechanic removed it and found metal particles in the hydraulic fluid, likely from internal motor wear. They flushed the hydraulic system, changed filters, installed a remanufactured drive motor, and returned the machine to full functionality. The contractor noted that, in hindsight, checking drive motor health and hydraulic cleanliness before purchase would have spared them significant downtime.
Why the S250 Still Matters Today
Conclusion
The Bobcat S250 is a proven, dependable skid‑steer loader with solid lifting capacity and a strong hydraulic system. However, as these machines age, potential issues like drive motor failures and sensor wiring faults become more likely. By applying careful maintenance, leveraging service manuals, and performing thorough inspections — especially when purchasing used — owners can continue to rely on the S250 as a workhorse for years to come.
The Bobcat S250 is a vertical‑lift skid‑steer loader manufactured by Bobcat, a leading brand under Doosan Bobcat with a long history in compact construction equipment. The S‑series machines have been widely adopted for utility work, landscaping, construction, and farm tasks due to their combination of solid lifting power, good hydraulic flow, and relatively compact footprint. The S250 was produced in the 2000s, and many examples remain in service, appreciated for their reliability and parts availability.
Performance Specifications
- Engine: 75 hp diesel with a 4‑cylinder Deutz unit.
- Rated Operating Capacity (35% tipping): 1,900 lb (~862 kg).
- Tipping Load: ~5,707 lb (2,589 kg).
- Lift-Arm Breakout Force: ~6,300 lb.
- Tilt Breakout Force: ~6,840 lb.
- Maximum Travel Speed: up to 12 mph (~19 km/h) according to several spec sources.
- Hydraulic Pump Flow: about 20.7 GPM (78.4 L/min).
- Relief Valve Pressure: roughly 3,300 psi (227.5 bar).
- Operating Weight: near 7,674 lb (3,481 kg) per some data.
- Lift Arm Cycle Times: raise ~4.4 s, lower ~3.2 s, dump ~2.5 s, rollback ~1.9 s.
Design & Key Features
- The S250 uses a vertical‑lift path, which helps maximize reach and provides good dump height.
- Operator control comes via hand levers for steering and travel, plus foot pedals for lift and tilt, with optional advanced control systems.
- Parking brake: mechanical disc type, engaged via a dash-mounted rocker switch.
- The cab is ROPS‑rated (Roll Over Protective Structure), ensuring operator protection.
- Auxiliary hydraulics are available via standard or high-flow options, depending on the configuration. Many users run attachments like augers, grapples, or trenchers.
Common Issues & Operational Feedback
- Drive Motor Failures
- Several users on equipment discussion forums have reported weak or failed drive motors, especially on older S250s. One potential buyer noted: “drive motor failure … even if system was flushed … you’re flirting with more hydro issues.”
- When a drive motor fails, metal contamination in the hydraulic system is a real risk, requiring a full flush and filter replacement.
- Several users on equipment discussion forums have reported weak or failed drive motors, especially on older S250s. One potential buyer noted: “drive motor failure … even if system was flushed … you’re flirting with more hydro issues.”
- Engine / Speed Sensor Error
- A user with a 2008 S250 reported rebuilding the engine, but then encountered an “06‑13 speed sensor not reading” code.
- After replacement of the sensor, the issue persisted; the community advised checking wiring inside the harness, as internal copper can break while insulation remains intact.
- A user with a 2008 S250 reported rebuilding the engine, but then encountered an “06‑13 speed sensor not reading” code.
- Oil Pressure Interpretation Confusion
- One operator recently changed all fluids and filters, but saw a high “oil” reading on the machine’s screen. They later clarified that the gauge was showing oil pressure, not crankcase oil level — an important distinction.
- At high RPM, elevated oil pressure is expected; at idle, unusually high pressure may warrant further inspection.
- One operator recently changed all fluids and filters, but saw a high “oil” reading on the machine’s screen. They later clarified that the gauge was showing oil pressure, not crankcase oil level — an important distinction.
Maintenance Tips & Recommendations
- Hydraulic System Care: Regularly check hydraulic oil level, particularly if drive motors are known to have failed — contamination can spread. Use the proper filter change intervals and consider flushing the system if a failure occurs.
- Engine Oil and Cooling: Monitor engine oil pressure and temperature. If pressure readings are abnormal, verify with a mechanical gauge.
- Electrical Inspections: Inspect wiring to the speed sensor for breaks or worn insulation. Use a multimeter to test continuity.
- Drive Motor Checks: Before purchasing a used S250, test both drive motors for power balance and listen for unusual noises or signs of internal wear.
- Fluid Specifications: Recommended hydraulic pressure is very high (3,300 psi), so use proper-rated hoses and fittings and maintain them vigilantly.
- Operator Training: Teach operators to understand what the machine’s gauges actually display (e.g., oil pressure) to avoid misdiagnoses.
Real‑World Use Story
A small contractor purchased a 2003 Bobcat S250 with ~2,500 operating hours for under $9,000. Initially, everything ran smoothly. After a few weeks, the right-side drive motor began feeling weak. The mechanic removed it and found metal particles in the hydraulic fluid, likely from internal motor wear. They flushed the hydraulic system, changed filters, installed a remanufactured drive motor, and returned the machine to full functionality. The contractor noted that, in hindsight, checking drive motor health and hydraulic cleanliness before purchase would have spared them significant downtime.
Why the S250 Still Matters Today
- Robustness: Despite their age, many S250s remain in use due to their durable hydrostatic drive and straightforward mechanical systems.
- Versatility: With vertical lift and optional high-flow hydraulics, the S250 supports many attachments — making it useful in construction, landscaping, and agriculture.
- Parts Availability: Parts for S250s remain relatively accessible, though components like drive motors should be inspected closely in used units.
- Operator Familiarity: Many operators trained on older S‑series units feel comfortable maintaining and operating them, which supports long-term use.
Conclusion
The Bobcat S250 is a proven, dependable skid‑steer loader with solid lifting capacity and a strong hydraulic system. However, as these machines age, potential issues like drive motor failures and sensor wiring faults become more likely. By applying careful maintenance, leveraging service manuals, and performing thorough inspections — especially when purchasing used — owners can continue to rely on the S250 as a workhorse for years to come.
