Auxiliary Hydraulics on an Older Bobcat 743

[MikePhua]

On the panswork forum, a user reported issues with the auxiliary hydraulics system on their older Bobcat 743. The issue primarily involved installing and troubleshooting the auxiliary hydraulics system. Given the age of the equipment, many components and the hydraulic system may have changed or worn out over time. The user sought advice from forum members to resolve these issues and restore hydraulic functionality.
Challenges with the Auxiliary Hydraulics System
The auxiliary hydraulics system is a common concern for many Bobcat 743 users, especially on older models. This system is designed to provide additional hydraulic power to operate attachments such as buckets, grapple attachments, augers, and more. However, as the equipment ages, components like the hydraulic pump, lines, or valves can fail, preventing the system from functioning correctly.
Forum discussions revealed that many users experience insufficient hydraulic flow or complete hydraulic failure. Some users mentioned that on older Bobcat 743 models, certain critical parts, such as the pump and valves, may need to be replaced in order to restore proper functionality.
Inspecting and Repairing the Hydraulic System
For those dealing with issues in the auxiliary hydraulic system, inspection and maintenance are key first steps. Forum users recommended starting with the hydraulic oil. It’s important to check both the oil level and quality. Low oil levels or contaminated oil can severely impact system performance and may even damage the pump. Users should also check the hydraulic lines for leaks. Damaged or worn hoses can lead to oil leakage, reducing system efficiency.
If the oil and lines are fine, the next step is to inspect the hydraulic pump and valves. Some users discovered that pump failures or stuck valves were the main causes of auxiliary hydraulic system failure. In cases of pump failure, it may be necessary to replace the entire pump, while valve issues may require cleaning or replacement.
Installing New Components
Several forum members shared their experiences replacing hydraulic components and provided helpful advice. They recommended ensuring that replacement parts are compatible with the Bobcat 743’s hydraulic system when replacing the pump or valve. If unsure about the correct replacement parts, consulting a Bobcat dealer or professional technician is advised to ensure the right components are purchased.
Maintenance Recommendations
To maintain hydraulic system stability, regular maintenance is crucial. Users were advised to routinely check hydraulic oil, clean filters, and inspect the system’s connections. Keeping the hydraulic system clean and in good condition will help extend the life of the equipment and avoid unexpected downtime due to hydraulic failures.
Solutions and Recommendations

1. Check Hydraulic Oil: Ensure that the hydraulic oil level and quality meet the standards. Avoid running the system with low or contaminated oil.
   
2. Inspect Hydraulic Lines: Make sure the hydraulic lines are free of leaks, damage, or wear. Replace any damaged lines as needed.
   
3. Check the Pump and Valves: If oil and lines are in good condition, inspect the pump and valves for issues. Replace or repair as necessary.
   
4. Install Compatible Parts: When replacing the hydraulic pump or valves, ensure the parts are compatible with the Bobcat 743’s system.
   
5. Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the hydraulic system to ensure clean oil, leak-free lines, and proper pump and valve function.
   

Conclusion
For older Bobcat 743 auxiliary hydraulics systems, users can address issues by checking the hydraulic oil, lines, pump, and valves. Identifying the root cause of the problem and replacing faulty parts will restore functionality. Regular maintenance and inspections will help extend the equipment's life and reduce the likelihood of hydraulic system failures.