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Weekly, Monthly & Annual Skid Steer Maintenance Tips

Skid Steer Maintenance Checklist for Bobcat Owners

Your Bobcat skid steer works hard, but it can only perform its best when it’s properly maintained. Skipping routine inspections or delaying oil changes can lead to costly downtime, expensive repairs, and lost productivity.

Whether you run a single machine or manage an entire fleet, following a structured maintenance plan is the key to maximizing uptime, protecting your investment, and extending the life of your equipment.

This guide breaks down the Bobcat maintenance schedule by hours of operation so you can stay ahead of breakdowns and keep your compact equipment running smoothly.

Why Preventative Maintenance Matters for Bobcat Skid Steers

Bobcat machines are built for durability, but even the toughest equipment needs care. Regular maintenance helps you:

• Protect vital components like the hydraulic system, cooling system, and undercarriage

• Prevent overheating, leaks, and premature wear

• Ensure safe, efficient operation for every operator

• Maintain higher resale and trade-in value

• Lower total cost of ownership over the life of your machine

Preventive maintenance is one of the most cost-effective ways to extend the life of your skid steer and avoid unexpected downtime.

Every 10–25 Hours: Weekly Maintenance Checklist

Perform these quick checks weekly or every 10–25 operating hours, especially in dusty, muddy, or high-use environments.

Visual Inspections:

• Hydraulic hoses and lines – check for leaks, cracks, or bulges

• Tires or rubber tracks – inspect for debris, cuts, or improper tension

• Lift arms, loader pins, and pivots – look for looseness or wear

• Quick-attach coupler – inspect for debris or stress fractures

• Cooling fins and radiator – check for clogging or dirt buildup

Fluid Levels:

• Engine oil

• Hydraulic fluid

• Coolant

• Windshield washer fluid

• Check for visible fuel or oil leaks

Clean:

• Cab air filter and HVAC vents

• Radiator and oil cooler fins

• Mirrors, lights, safety decals, and backup camera lenses

Every 50–100 Hours: Monthly Maintenance Checklist

Includes all weekly checks plus deeper inspections and lubrication.

Maintenance Tasks:

• Grease all zerk fittings (especially around lift arms and coupler)

• Inspect the battery and clean corroded terminals

• Test parking brake, seat belt, and safety interlocks

• Check fan belt tension and overall condition

• Review fuel filter and water separator for debris or moisture

Replace or Clean:

• HVAC filter (replace if restricted)

• Hydraulic filter (based on hours and workload)

• Clean cab interior, joysticks, and operator controls

Every 250–500 Hours (or Annually): Full-Service Checklist

Annual or 250- to 500-hour service (depending on model and workload) keeps your Bobcat ready for another demanding season.

Deep Inspections:

• Undercarriage: inspect idlers, rollers, sprockets, and tensioners

• Drive motors and final drives: check for leaks or unusual noises

• Electrical system: inspect wiring and connectors

• ROPS and cab frame: check for cracks or damage

Replace:

• Engine oil and filter

• Hydraulic oil and filters

• Fuel filters (primary and secondary)

• Coolant (follow Bobcat’s recommended intervals)

• Air filters (inner and outer elements)

Additional Recommendations:

• Log all service in maintenance records for warranty compliance

• Schedule a professional inspection annually

• Review your operator’s manual for model-specific service intervals

Time-Saving Tips for Bobcat Skid Steer Owners

• Use OEM Bobcat fluids and filters to protect your warranty and extend component life

• Mount a laminated version of this checklist in your shop or service truck

• If you use multiple attachments, inspect hydraulic couplers and grease points on each one

• Use this same checklist to winterize or prep for spring startup

Don’t Let Maintenance Slow You Down

A $15 filter change today can prevent a $2,000 repair tomorrow. Consistent maintenance ensures your Bobcat skid steer stays reliable, no matter how demanding the job.

At Rexco Equipment, we carry the complete line of Bobcat OEM filters, hydraulic fluid, and replacement parts, plus expert service from factory-trained technicians who know your machine inside and out. [Contact Rexco Equipment] today to [Schedule Service] or [Order OEM Parts].