Skid steers have different attachments to assist with several applications. The machine will only work well if they are correctly attached. Moreover, improper connections may damage the equipment and injure people on the job site. If you work with skid steer loaders, excavators, and other compact equipment, learning to change and store your bobcat attachments can help maximize the machine’s performance and overall productivity. Learn how to accomplish this effectively and safely store the attachments to enhance the longevity of the equipment.
How to Change Bobcat Attachments
Although it may seem too basic, having the fundamentals sorted is essential. Changing skid steer attachments is a vital aspect of operating the machine. Here is a step-by-step guide to changing them efficiently to help you save time and effort:
Check the Surroundings
Before switching your bobcat attachments, ensure you are in a flat, safe area free of obstacles with enough room to maneuver as required. Also, clear the area of other people to avoid delays and mishaps.
Inspect the Equipment
Ensure the compact equipment, quick attach plates, and attachments are clean. Get rid of rocks, pebbles, mud, sticks, ice, or snow off the parts.
Connect Your Skid Steer Loader to the Attachment
Secure the machine properly to the attachment and lock the levers or pins to keep it in place. Lift the equipment and visually verify that the pins are inserted through the holes on the quick-attach plate.
Attach the Hoses Correctly
Connect hoses from the attachment to the compact equipment by pushing the couplers together. Once you hear a clicking sound, pull them a little to ensure they are correctly locked.
Turn On Hydraulics to Operate
Switch on the auxiliary hydraulics inside the equipment to begin operating the attachment. Operate it at low speed and idle to check if all connections are secure and if there is no leak on the skid loader or the attachment. Once you are sure everything functions properly, turn up the idle and run the hydraulics faster.
Prepare to Disconnect
Before disconnecting the bobcat attachment, check the machine for auxiliary pressure relief. If so, turn it off. You can also relieve pressure from the hoses by pushing them back into the skid loader. This way, the couplers will retract backward around 3/8th of an inch. Then, pull back on the female coupler to disengage the other part.
Changing Attachments with a Quick Attach System
Here are a few steps you must follow when working with bobcat attachments with a quick-attach feature:
- Align the mounting plate to the tool.
- Move it gradually till the plate slides into the attachment’s saddle.
- Then, operate the compact equipment to ensure the arms slide into the new attachment. Lock them securely and ensure they lay flat against the mounting plate.
- Lastly, press the engagement button.
Changing Bobcat Attachments If You Have a Manual System
Manual systems require more work than a skid steer attachments with a quick-attachment feature. Here are some tips to make the job hassle-free:
- Secure the tool with the lock pins.
- Carefully align everything, look for resistance between the Bobcat attachment and the machine, and ensure it is properly connected.
Frequently Asked Questions about Changing Bobcat Attachments
What is a Skid Steer Quick Attach?
It is a universal mounting plate necessary to make all Bobcat attachments compatible with different skid steer brands. It also boosts compatibility beyond skid steer loaders.
What is a Skid Steer Quick Coupler?
It is a quick connect or disconnect flat-faced coupler to ensure minimum hydraulic fluid spillage when disconnecting the attachment. It helps to enhance efficiency and eases the process when using multiple tools.
Are Skid Steer Attachments Interchangeable or Universal?
Almost every Bobcat attachment has a universal quick attach plate, making them interchangeable with a skid steer lineup.
Are All Hydraulic Couplers the Same?
Yes, most of the hydraulic couplers are the same. However, you may find some larger couplers being used with skid steer loaders, but you will notice that they are an older model.
Preparing Your Skid Steer Attachments for Proper Storage
Visual Check for Damages
Wire wrapped around the bearing spindle and oil leakage are common problems you can easily identify during a visual inspection. Performing a routine on stored Bobcat attachments, especially before using them again, is essential to prevent more significant issues resulting from negligence.
Check Oil
- Add or replace the oil in all skid steer attachments with bearing spindles.
- Remember to relieve pressure in the lines.
- Grease the zerks on the attachment to provide adequate lubrication, push debris and dirt from the moving joints, and ensure protection against corrosion.
Clean the Bobcat Attachment
Do not store a dirty attachment. Remove excess dirt and sand buildup, grease, salt, snow, and other debris with a pressure washer. This way, you can easily use it when required without worrying about a thorough cleanup.
Prep Work
Use a degreaser, primer, high-quality paint, and rust-prevention sprays to prevent corrosion on your attachment paint and ensure it is in excellent condition.
Clean the Couplers
In most cases, the foreign contamination of a skid steer hydraulic system is because of the couplers. Wipe them thoroughly, click them together, and cover them to prevent external elements from damaging the tips. Doing so will prevent eventual failure.
Repair or Replace the Parts
If you find problems with the attachments, repair them immediately. Do not hesitate to replace the parts if you think they are beyond repair, including blades, teeth, and cutting edges.
Storage & Proper Cover
Keep the Bobcat attachments in a dry environment to prevent damage due to moisture, and keep them off the ground to keep them clean.
We Feature the Best Range of Bobcat Attachments
Tag Equipment offers a range of bobcat attachments for sale at reasonable prices, including bobcat forks, bobcat buckets, and more. We also feature bobcat tracks to ensure our customers find everything in one place.
If you want a skid steer attachment, call us at 416-716-5850 for more information. You may also fill out our online form if you have any questions.
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