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Your Machine Maintenance Checklist: The Basics

Published on December 4, 2019

Our easy-to-use machine maintenance checklist shares the basics on how often you should service different components of your compact track loader and what to look for during your inspection.

While a great resource, this list is not intended to replace the critical information found in our official Bobcat manuals. Find your machine’s manual for detailed information on compact track loader operation, maintenance and more.

Your Compact Track Loader Service Schedule: The Basics

8 - 10 HOURS
Engine Oil

Check engine oil level every 8 to 10 hours.
Add oil as needed but don’t overfill.

Hydraulic Fluid
Check hydraulic fluid level
8 to 10 hours. Add fluid as needed.

Engine Air Filter
Check display panel for flashing service indicator
and replace filter when service code is present. 

Engine Cooling System
While the machine is cold, check the coolant level and add
premixed coolant as needed. Clean debris from the oil
cooler, radiator, fuel cooler, air conditioning condenser
and rear grill.

Fuel Filter
Remove trapped water every 8 to 10 hours.

Lift Arms, Lift Links, Cylinders,
Bob-Tach system, Pivot Pins, Wedges

Lubricate with multipurpose lithium-based grease
every 8 to 10 hours.

FIRST MACHINE CHECKS

Tracks
If applicable, for the first 24 hours, check your tracks for
damage, wear and the correct tension every
8 to 10 hours.

50 HOURS
Hydraulic Hoses and Tubelines
Check for damaged or leaking
hydraulic hoses and tubelines.

Parking Brake, Foot Pedals,
Hand Controls and Steering
Levers or Joysticks

Check for correct operation.
Repair or adjust as needed.

Tracks
Check tension and adjust as needed.

FIRST MACHINE CHECKS

Engine Oil and Filter
If applicable, replace after the first 50 hours of use.

100 HOURS
Battery
Inspect battery cables and connections, clean
and tighten as needed. If your machine is used
infrequently, install a battery maintainer.

250 HOURS
Engine Oil and Filter
Replace every 12 months/250 hours under standard
operating conditions, or 100 hours when operating in severe conditions.

Engine / Hydrostatic Drive Belt
Adjust the idler arm stop. Check belt for wear
or damage.

500 HOURS
Fuel Filter
Replace filter element every 12 months or every 500 hours.

1,000 HOURS
Engine Valves
Adjust the engine valves every 1,000 hours.

Hydraulic/Hydrostatic Filter
Replace the hydraulic/hydrostatic filter
every 1,000 hours.

Hydraulic Reservoir
Completely replace the fluid 
every 1,000 hours.

2 YEARS
Coolant
Replace coolant every 2 years.

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