6 Most Common Bobcat S650 Problems

The Bobcat S650 is a heavy-duty machine that is built to handle tough jobs in construction, landscaping, and agriculture. However, like any other piece of equipment, it can experience problems that can affect its performance and efficiency. Here, we will be looking at the most common problems that you can face on the Bobcat S650 and how to take care of them just as easily.

Table of Contents

1. You May Have Problems Starting Up The Engine

One of the most common issues with the Bobcat S650 is engine trouble. This can range from issues like difficulty starting the engine to more serious problems like engine failure. When your Bobcat S650 is having difficulty starting, it may be due to a weak or dead battery, a damaged starter motor, or a clogged fuel filter.

What You Can Do

  • Try check the battery’s voltage and replace it if you notice any damage or degradation. If you haven’t used your skid loader in a while or if you store the battery in a bad place then this problem is likely going to occur on your Bobcat S650’s battery.
  • Also check the starter motor and replace it if it’s damaged. The last place to check is the fuel filter which you may also have to replace if it is dirty, clogged or damaged.

2. The Engine of Your Bobcat S650 Is Prone To Overheating

If your Bobcat S650 is running hot or overheating then it may be due to a clogged radiator (which is a device that helps to cool down the engine of the Bobcat S650) , a defective or damaged thermostat, or a low coolant (the liquid that helps cool down the engine of the Bobcat S650) level.

What You Can Do

  • Be sure to check the radiator and then clean it if it’s clogged. You can usually simply do this with water. Or using some sort of plunged to remove the clog.
  • Check to see if the thermostat (or temperature sensor) is working properly and replace it if it is damaged or defective. You may need an experienced professional to take care of this.
  • Always make sure that the coolant level is at its optimal level and always add more if it is not to avoid the engine of the Bobcat S650 from Overheating.

3. Your Skid Steer Loader’s Hydraulic Fluids May Leak

The hydraulic system is a critical component of the Bobcat S650. It is responsible for powering the machine’s various attachments and ensuring smooth operation. If your Bobcat S650 has a problem of leaking hydraulic fluid, it may be due to a damaged hydraulic hose or a faulty hydraulic seal.

What You Can Do

  • If you can spot where the source of the leak is coming from you will be able to adequately replace the damaged hydraulic hose or seal.
  • Then make sure to check the hydraulic fluid levels and add more hydraulic fluid if necessary. You may have to carry an extra batch with you.
  • Check the hydraulic pump because it may also be the source of this very problem on your Bobcat S650 and replace it if it’s malfunctioning.

4. Your Bobcat S650’s Hydraulic System Is Prone To Making Strange Noises

If your Bobcat S650’s hydraulic system is making unusual noises, it may be due to air in the system, low hydraulic fluid levels, or a damaged hydraulic pump. As you operate your Bobcat S650 on a daily or regular basis such problems are sure to start. As mentioned above the hydraulic system is a very critical component to the function of the Bobcat S650 so it can be alarming when it starts making strange noises.

What You Can Do

  • Bleed (remove/ drain out all the hydraulic fluid in) the hydraulic system to remove any air.
  • Be sure to check the hydraulic fluid levels, make sure there aren’t any leaks around the system as well and add more hydraulic fluid if necessary.
  • The hydraulic pump is not supposed to be making funny noises when it is operational so if it is, it’s most likely damaged so it needs to be replaced it if it’s damaged.

5. Your Bobcat S650’s Fuse(s) May Succumb To The Harnesses It Is Put Through

The electrical system of the Bobcat S650 is responsible for powering the machine’s lights, gauges, and other accessories. The fuses present in your Bobcat S650 are responsible for making sure that the right amount of current is transferred  from the battery to the aforementioned components of the skid steer loader. If your Bobcat S650’s fuses keep blowing, it may be due to a short circuit or a damaged electrical component.

What You Can Do

  • Replace the blown out fuse(s) which you will be easily able to identify and install a new one. You may need professional help with this so do not hesitate to seek assistance from a professional Bobcat mechanic and/or technician.

6. Your Bobcat S650’s Fuel May Leak

The fuel in the fuel tank of your Bobcat S650 is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. One of the most  common problems you may encounter with your Bobcat S650 is a fuel leak because it seems the skid loader has a fuel tank that wasn’t build to handle harsh conditions. If your Bobcat S650 is leaking fuel, it may be due to a damaged fuel line, a damaged fuel injector, or a faulty fuel tank.

What You Can Do

  • Find where the leak is originating from on your Bobcat S650 and replace either the damaged fuel line, injector, or tank because that is where the fuel leak is likely coming from.

Conclusion

The Bobcat S650 is a compact, rugged and versatile machine that can handle a variety of tasks. It is one of the best skid loaders from Bobcat and that says a lot about it. Machinery like this is very delicate even though it is strong, you often start to see just how delicate it is after using it for a couple of times. Such is the case with the Bobcat S650 and because of this you will have to deal with quite a number of problems.