6 Common Bobcat S250 Problems – With Brief Solutions And Causes

Although Bobcat has long been the market leader for skid steers, users frequently experience problems with these tools. These problems are typically relatively small, and they can be resolved by going through a few troubleshooting procedures.

Some of the common Bobcat S250 problems are Ground fault error, Main bearing failure, Case Drain Issues, Bucket Won’t Lift or Tilt, Fault codes 05-14 and 05-15 and Control system problems.

We concentrated on resolving the most prevalent problems that these skid steers have right now. You’ll be prepared to handle those on your own as a result. Let’s move forward!

Bobcat S250 Problems and solutions at a glimpse

ProblemSolution
Ground fault errorFollow the wiring harness back to the valves
Main bearing failureCheck and replace the bearing oil
Case Drain IssuesReplace case drain filter
Bucket Won’t Lift or TiltThe broken switch needs to be fixed
Fault codes 05-14 and 05-15Troubleshoot the drive belt
Control system problemVerify the connections

Common Bobcat S250 Problems

One of the industry’s top producers of skid-steer loaders, Bobcat has enhanced their goods over the past 50 years. The small, strong machines are excellent for carrying heavy goods inside and outside of various job locations.

The Bobcat can move things fast and effectively because of its narrow width and mobility. The engine, hydraulics, and electrical/control systems must all be examined when troubleshooting a Bobcat loader because those parts experience the majority of issues.

Problem 1: Ground fault error.

The grapple will occasionally behave strangely, which is our issue. Either it will automatically go fully open or fully closed, or it won’t follow instructions. On the right-hand steering lever, there is a side-to-side toggle that is used to control it.

The machine frequently beeps three times and illuminates an exclamation point near the key when this occurs.

Solution:

A ground fault is defined as a current that leaks to the ground; in this case, it may also refer to wires that are so badly damaged that “signals are getting crossed.” If possible, follow the wiring harness back to the valves.

Look for any damage to the harness or indications of overheating on the exposed ends of the wires, such as swelling, discoloration, or melting. We would start at the switch. We have never seen a ground wire on a solenoid, but if there was one with a loose ground connection, that could be the source of your issue.

Next, take a good look at the valve body.

Problem 2: Main bearing failure.

Although bearings have a finite lifespan, there are ways to prevent premature failure. Failure to change or even check the main hub bearing oil is one of the most frequent causes of premature bearing failure in Bobcat final drive motors.

Solution:

One of the hub bearing’s two drainage holes is visible. We suspect that some final drive owners may not be aware of them because they are frequently covered up with dirt and debris.

Every 500 hours or so, the hub bearing’s oil needs to be checked and replaced. The failed bearing can quickly destroy the remainder of the final drive motor if the levels drop. When you replace the oil, if it appears “glittery,” you most likely have a bearing that is already tearing apart.

A leak in the main seal, which allows the bearing lubricant to escape, is the first typical step that causes main bearing failure. The damage to the bearings starts as soon as the hub bearing oil starts to run low. Your entire final drive may sustain irreparable damage as a result of the damage’s cascading effects.

Problem 3: Case Drain Issues.

Clogged case drain filters were yet another very frequent cause of issues for Bobcat final drive motors. Hydraulic fluid backs up into the final drive motor when the filter becomes clogged. High pressure is the result of this.

As the clogged filter prevents case drain flow, the pressure keeps rising. Eventually, the oil seal breaks down, allowing gear oil and hydraulic fluid to mix.

Solution:

As pressure increases, a clogged case drain filter can cause significant damage. Rotator groups that appear to have been blown apart, broken bearings, and a cracked or missing cover plate are all common.

Replace it whenever you replace the other filters to avoid this. Bronze is the color of a clean case drain filter. It must be replaced if it appears dark or unkempt. It is not advised to clean a case drain filter; if in doubt, replace it.

It wouldn’t hurt to replace the case drain filter as a precaution if you experience a final drive or pump failure.

Problem 4: Bucket Won’t Lift or Tilt.

The safety switches are probably malfunctioning if the Bobcat bucket functions normally the most of the time but occasionally develops this problem.

Solution:

The machine won’t perform any heavy lifting if the safety switches are not correctly activated. Therefore, there is a significant likelihood that a malfunctioning safety switch is the reason you are caught in this issue. The broken switch in this case needs to be fixed in order for the Bobcat to function.

You should first check the connection points for debris before fixing the Bobcat. Dirt getting between the connection points is not all that uncommon. Similar to this, rust may target your machine after extensive use. So simply tidy up the connection points before restarting the skid steer. Ideally, your Bobcat’s bucket will soon begin operating flawlessly.

Problems 5: Fault codes 05-14 and 05-15.

Your error messages read “hydraulic charge pressure in shutdown” and “hydraulic charge pressure extremely low.” This is often brought on by a drive belt that is operating improperly.

Solution:

You should be able to move the drive sticks forward and stall the engine if you start the engine but don’t let off of the parking brake. When you do so, if the engine doesn’t stall, the drive belt is probably the issue.

Problem 6: Control system problem.

Make sure all the connections are tight if the loader and steering joystick controls aren’t working. If the issue persists, you might need to replace the joystick control circuit board, which is housed in the joystick arm rest.

Solution:

Ensure that the hydraulic pump and actuators are connected to the joystick’s connecting cables. Slow response may be a sign of a broken control system. On different panels and the driver’s seat of the Bobcat, there are safety switches.

Any issue with those changes could be problematic. Verify the connections and functionality of the switches. A faulty circuit may also be indicated by excessive battery depletion.

FAQ

How much does a Bobcat S250 weight?

Operating Weight of the Bobcat S250 skid steer is 3245 kg (7154 lb), and its width with a bucket is 1727 mm (68 in.).

How many hours is good for a bobcat?

According to some experts, a skid steer has an average lifespan of 5,000 hours. Remember that a variety of factors, such as whether you bought the machinery new or used, will affect how long your skid steer lasts.

Is Bobcat S250 High Flow?

A total of 30.9 gpm of additional hydraulic flow is offered with the high-flow option package. You may use high-performance specific Bobcat attachments like the chipper, planer, concrete pump, stump grinder, and trencher thanks to this and the 3,300 psi system pressure.

Moving to the closure

Some of the frequent problems with Bobcat final drive motors include bearing failures, case drain issues, and charge pump issues. The fact of the matter is that they are typically avoidable with routine maintenance.

Customers are guaranteed thorough professional help from Bobcat customer support. So, getting in touch with customer service is an excellent alternative if you’re having issues with your Bobcat.

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