Bobcat skid steer 743 is one of the most popular track loaders in history. This model was first developed in the 1990s, but it is still in service now. Although, this loader provides unbeatable performance, however, it may show a few unexpected troubles sometimes like any other machine.
So, what are the most common 743 Bobcat problems? Drive and steering issues, bad alternator, starting issues, and hydraulic problems are some of the widely held issues with Bobcat 743. And there are also several major and minor problems too. However, you can fix these malfunctions either at home or by taking help from the mechanic.
This article will guide you to troubleshooting Bobcat 743 problems by repairing or replacing the damaged parts. Before that, let’s know the specifications of Bobcat 743 first.
bobcat 743 track loader specs details
The key specs of the 743 Bobcat track loader are-
| Rated operating capacity (ISO): | 1,300 lb |
| Operating weight | 4720 lb |
| Horsepower | 36 hp |
| Engine type | Kubota V1702 diesel |
| Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine cooling | Liquid |
| Auxiliary std flow | 11 gal/min |
5 most Common 743 Bobcat Problems
Bobcat 743 loader is a top-performing skid steer. However, some problems may arise here over time due to its age, bad weather, improper maintenance, accidents, and some other reasons. Several common issues that you may encounter with Bobcat 743 are-
- Drive and steering problems
- Starting issue
- Lift and tilt problem
- Control valve leaking
- Hydraulic issue
Solutions to the Bobcat 743 Common Problems
After talking about the issues that you may face, let’s discuss some of the key 743 Bobcat skid steer troubleshooting tips.
#1- Drive and Steering Issues: Blow Out Trapped Air
Bobcat 743 users may encounter driving and steering problems sometimes. When you try to steer it left or right, you hear a loud growling sound. This will even happen in a standing position. Also, the sound comes when moving forward or reverse. To diagnose the culprit and solve it, follow the steps.
- Step 1: The reason behind this might be trapped air in the system or a low oil level.
- Step 2: If the hydraulic oil level is low add sufficient oil there.
- Step 3: Trapped air will get out automatically after raising or lowering the bucket several times. But sometimes it may require a few days. Manually, you can blow out the air by using a micron filter.
These quick checks will help solve the sound problem during driving and steering.
#2- Starting Problem: Replace the Alternator
Sometimes you can face with Bobcat 743 starting issue thus the machine won’t move. This could happen for many reasons like glow plugs, relay problems, faulty batteries, actuators, alternators, battery regulators, and many more. But the alternator is one of the prime causes here. So, here we’ll discuss alternator troubleshooting.
- Step 1: Voltage testing is a good way to know whether the alternator is good or bad.
- Step 2: In some cases, you can repair the bad alternator yourself, but if you can’t do it take help from an expert.
- Step 3: If the alternator is dead, there is no way without replacing it.
- Step 3: You need to remove the battery before replacing the alternator. Also, remove the alternator retaining screws. Then remove and replace the bad alternator.
The used alternator of 743 Bobcat is available between $50 to $80, whereas the new one comes with 100 to 150 bucks.
| Cost | Used alternator cost | New alternator cost |
|---|---|---|
| Parts cost | $50 to $80 | $100 to $150 |
| Mechanic cost | $30 to $50 | $30 to $50 |
| Total cost | $80 to $130 | $130 to $180 |
#3- Lift and Tilt issues: Replace Solenoid
743 Bobcat loader may fail to lift or tilt the bucket, the hydraulic system might be faulty. If this happens the flashlight of the lift and tilt will glow and the diagnostic tool on the control panel will give you a warning regarding this. So how to solve the issue?
- Step 1: If the diagnostic tool shows a warning like a hydraulic system open circuit, there might be a broken wire.
- Step 2: To figure out the affected wire, you may raise the cab to access the hydraulic compartment.
- Step 3: The main valve body is situated just underneath the seat and just beside the hydraulic release throttle. You will see the plug hole there and the solenoid just under a few inches of it.
- Step 4: Remove the cap nut of the solenoid using a wrench or socket. Then take away the solenoid body with a prybar. You may use some twisting force here too.
- Step 5: If the wire of the solenoid is broken replace the solenoid.
The solenoid of the Bobcat 743 is available for around 40 to 80 bucks. In most cases, a new solenoid will be good enough to fix the lift or tilt problem.
Pro Tips: While replacing the solenoid make sure the spindle and O-ring are good enough. If they get damaged, replace them too.
#4- Control Valve Leaking: Replace the Spool Seal
Another problem that the 743 Bobcat users may face is leaking the control valve from the lift spool. There are several drill ports in the spool that keeps it in float position when the pedal is pushed. It also helps to control the bucket in position. The lift spool has a seal that decays over time hence the spool doesn’t work rightly. To fix the seal do the following things.
- Step 1: Remove the lift spool from the machine first.
- Step 2: Then undo the Allen head and spring from the spool.
- Step 3: Now you will see a threaded screw. Remove it too using a plastic plug.
- Step 4: Down inside the screw there is a plastic seal that can’t be seen outside.
- Step 5: You can heat up a plastic plug and insert it horizontally inside the spot where the threaded screw is located.
- Step 6: Now pull the plug outside and you can see an Allen key with it. And outside the Allen key, you will find an O-ring. If the O-ring seal gets damaged, replace it.
The plastic plug and O-ring are very cheap that are available below $10.
frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Now you know the different issues and solutions to the Bobcat 743 machine. However, you may have more questions regarding this. Here we will cover a few of them.
What are the difference between the 743 and 743B Bobcat loaders?
743B Bobcat is the upgraded model of 743 that is also called Bobcat 753. Due to the popularity of the 743 model, it was de-featured as 753 in 1991. 743B or 753 Bobcat are highly functional compared to the 743 models which makes them costly too.
Is Bobcat 743 hydraulic pump rebuild kit available?
Yes, you will get the 743 Bobcat hydraulic pump in online shops like Amazon, eBay, Bobcat website, and many other retailers shops.
Fixing Up a Bobcat 743 Skid Steer >> Check out this video for more specific information’s.
editors thoughts
If you face any 743 Bobcat problems, repair or replace the damaged parts soon. In most cases, the issues are minor and you can solve them at home at cheap costs. It’s recommended to fix the problem immediately, otherwise, the condition will worsen and the repair cost will raise a lot.
The key thing is maintaining the Bobcat 743 properly so you can know if any issues are going to happen. Hopefully, this article will help you troubleshoot the 743 Bobcat skid steer successfully.
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