Since 1993 JCB has been outstanding thanks to their highly remarkable and versatile offerings in the Skid Steer industry. JCB Skid Steers are highly versatile and are offered at reasonable pricing. The Skid Steer allows one to move a lot of equipment thanks to the single-arm JCB Powerboom. Despite however the JCB Skid Steer’s many strong points it does have a few problems that will be discussed below.
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What Is The JCB Skid Steer?
The JCB Skid Steer loader is a Skid Steer loader from the Company JCB. Unique features on the JCB Skid Steer include the iconic single-arm Powerboom and a side door that allows the operator to enter from the side. This wonderful door design prevents the operator from climbing over a cumbersome attachment at the front in-order get into the cab unlike in most other conventional skid steer loaders.
JCB Skid Steer Problems
NB: The JCB is Skid Steer is usually sold as is and without any defects. Any problems that may arise, including those highlighted below are usually caused by wear and tear developing on the Skid Steer while in operation.
1. ‘O’ Rings, Seals And Gasket Failure
One of the biggest problems that can plague the JCB Skid Steer are damaged or rotten ‘O’ rings. Seals and gaskets can cause leakages and possible accidents if they are damaged and not replaced. Reasons for damaged seals and ‘O’ rings can arise from;
- The use of Trichloroethane or paint thinners near the seals and ‘O’ rings.
- Wear and tear developing on seals over time in operation.
- Using the JCB Skid Steer outside its recommended operational environmental conditions.
Troubleshooting ‘O’ Rings, Seals And Gaskets
To address problems with the JCB Skid Steer ‘O’ rings, seals and gaskets one can do the following;
- Avoid using the Trichloroethane or paint thinners near ‘O’ rings and seals as these may result in damage.
- Regularly inspecting the ‘O’ rings and seals for damage and regularly replacing them if problems develop.
- Avoiding the usage of the JCB Skid Steer with excessive loads or in environments that may result in damage of the loader such excessively hot environments.
2. Engine Doesn’t Start
There are several reasons that may cause the engine not to start and these include;
- Faulty fuel circulation system including the filters, fuel lines and pumps.
- Clogged fuel injectors and malfunctioning spark plugs.
- Engine throttle cable not securely attached to the throttle body.
Troubleshooting Engine Faults
The engine may fail to function and to solve this problem, the user can do one of the following;
- Inspecting fuel filters and fuel lines to ensure they are not blocked and also ensuring the JCB Skid Steer is not operated in dusty conditions.
- Inspecting and replacing fuel injectors and spark plugs when faulty.
- Properly securing the throttle cable to the throttle body to restore functionality.
3. Faulty Air Conditioning System
The air conditioning system is a closed loop system and contains pressurized refrigerant. Problems can arise with the air conditioning system and these may be caused by the following;
- Punctures or cracks in the refrigerant system piping.
- Loose fittings in the ping system.
- Pressure buildup due inappropriate usage or filing.
Troubleshooting Faulty Air Conditioning
To solve any problems with the air conditioning system and ensure no issues develop one can do the following.
- Regularly inspecting the refrigerant piping system for cracks and hiring a refrigerant engineer to look into in to the system.
- Inspecting and tightening loose fittings.
- Ensuring refrigerant fillings are carried out by a trained professional.
4. Hydraulic Issues
The hydraulic system is an essential component of the of the JCB Skid Steer and allows the proper function of the Powerboom. Common problems include;
- Under filling and overfilling of the hydraulic system.
- Clogged hydraulic filter.
- Faulty hydraulic pump.
Troubleshooting The Hydraulic System
In order to ensure the hydraulic system functions as intended the following can be done;
- The hydraulic system requires the working fluid at optimum level in order to function hence ensure it is not overfilled or under filled.
- Regularly inspecting the hydraulic filter to ensure it is not clogged and the hydraulic system has the appropriate pressure.
- Regularly inspecting the hydraulic pump, fittings and lines to ensure they are operating as intended and have not developed any problems by pressurizing the system and checking for any leaks.
5. Control System Issues
The control system that includes the joystick and any other controls in the JCB Skid Steer may develop problems and these may be caused by;
- Loose or disconnected steering or Powerboom control connections.
- Faulty wiring to the actuators and hydraulic pump.
- Faulty safety switches.
Troubleshooting Control System
In order to ensure the control system does not develop problems and continues to function as intended the following can be done;
- Checking for any loose control connections and reconnecting or tightening them to ensure there are no loose connections.
- Replacing the wiring of the actuators and hydraulic pumps if found to be faulty after inspection.
- Replacing safety switches that are faulty or malfunctioning.
How To Avoid JCB Skid Steer Problems
The best way to avoid any problems developing with the JCB Skid Steer is to regularize with the Skid Steer manual and only using the skid steer loader as stipulated in the manual. Following the appropriate maintenance schedule and avoiding the use the loader in environments where it may be prone to failure will also help prolong the life of the JCB Skid Steer loader.
What Not To Do With The JCB Skid Steer Loader?
In order to use the JCB Skid Steer loader safely, never place any part of the body outside the cab of the Steer Skid loader when it is operational and where one could be crushed or injured. Never operate the machine when any safety device is missing or damaged.
What Is The Advantage Of The JCB Skid Steer Loader?
The JCB Skid Steer loader moves at higher speeds than other comparable track loaders and is more suited for when the machine is covering large distances. It is also more versatile thanks to the single arm Powerboom and side door.
Conclusion
In conclusion the JCB Skid Steer is a very versatile Skid Steer loader and offers wonderful strength, durability and reliability. The single arm power boom design uses high tensile steel and internal baffle plates for added strength hence it can carry more load. The design however can develop problems and regular maintenance is necessary to ensure it functions as intended.
