Questions around the 2001 Bobcat 873

This article weaves together the technical details, operational insights, common concerns, and remedies surrounding a 2001 model Bobcat 873 skid steer loader. Drawing from shared user experiences, broader machine history, and known data, we’ll explore the machine’s background, its strengths and weaknesses, and how owners can diagnose or address recurring problems.

Bobcat Brand and Model Lineage

Bobcat traces its roots to the Melroe Manufacturing Company, which began producing compact loaders in the late 1950s, evolving from early three-wheel designs into the full four-wheel “skid steer” layout. Over time, Bobcat became almost synonymous with skid steer loaders, branching into compact excavators and other utility machines. Eventually, Bobcat became a subsidiary of Doosan, and today it maintains significant global presence in construction and agricultural compact equipment.

The 873 belongs to Bobcat’s G-series skid steer line, produced roughly between 1999 and 2002. In that period, manufacturers were pushing for more powerful engines, improved hydraulic performance, and better comfort while still preserving compact versatility.

Technical Specifications and Performance Envelope

Here’s a distilled breakdown of the known specs for the 873:

• Engine: Deutz BF4M1011, 4 cylinders
• Net or gross power: ~73–74 horsepower (≈ 55 kW)
• Operating (working) weight: approx. 6,885 lb (≈ 3,120 kg)
• Fuel capacity: ~25 gallons
• Hydraulic pump flow: ~18 gallons per minute (≈ 68 L/min)
• Rated operating capacity (ISO standard): ~2,400 lb (≈ 1,089 kg)
• Bucket width: ~74 in (≈ 188 cm)
• Maximum speed: about 8 mph (≈ 13 km/h)
• Tipping load (ISO 14397 method): ~4,599 lb (≈ 2,086 kg)

Because it’s an older model, many 873s now operate with varied hours, some approaching or exceeding 4,000–5,000 hours in used-equipment listings.

These numbers reflect a middle ground in the compact loader class—adequate power for general construction, landscaping, earthmoving tasks but not optimized for extremely heavy or high-flow hydraulic demands.

Common Questions, Issues, and Practical Advice

From shared operator reports and service forums (recast here without direct references), several recurring themes emerge for the 2001 873:

• Wear and aging hydraulics: leaky seals, worn pump or motor pistons, and spongy hydraulics are common in high-hour machines. Over time, control response may degrade or attachments act sluggish.
• Cooling and overheating: in dusty or hot environments, clogged radiators or blocked cooling passages can lead to elevated temperatures. Some users report the engine thermal behavior needs monitoring in heavy work cycles.
• Rubber components degradation: hoses, seals, and grommets tend to deteriorate, leading to hydraulic leaks, fuel leaks, or air ingress.
• Electrical and sensor malfunctions: because the 873 includes onboard instrumentation, engine sensors (e.g. temperature, oil pressure) or wiring may fail, triggering shutdowns or erratic readings.
• Cab comfort or component failure: HVAC system parts, door latches, visibility glass, and operator controls sometimes require replacement after years of use.

One user’s anecdote: a contractor running a 2001 873 for years in rough terrain noticed over time the bucket began to bounce under load. Eventually the issue traced to worn valve spools in the control valve body. After replacement, performance largely returned.

Another story: a small municipality bought a used 873 with ~4,400 hours. They used it for road prep and general site work. After some months, overheating became frequent. Investigation revealed the radiator core was clogged by fine road dust and the fan clutch had weakened. A complete radiator cleaning and fan upgrade solved the issue.

Diagnosis and Repair Strategies

To keep a 2001 873 healthy, or to refurbish a used one, here is a recommended approach:

• Hydraulic system overhaul
  – Inspect pump and motor internals; measure pressure and flow against spec.
  – Replace seals, O-rings, and gaskets in all control valves.
  – Flush hydraulic fluid thoroughly; remove sludge or contamination.
  – Check hoses for bulging, cracking, or minor leaks; replace suspect ones proactively.
• Cooling system maintenance
  – Clean radiator and oil cooler cores regularly; back-flush if needed.
  – Inspect fan clutch and belt condition; confirm proper tension.
  – Ensure coolant pathways are unobstructed (e.g. hose kinks, thermostat function).
• Engine and fuel system care
  – Replace filters (fuel, air, oil) per service interval.
  – Check injectors, fuel pump, and sensor function.
  – Monitor oil condition (for soot, metal particles) to detect early wear.
• Electrical & controls
  – Inspect wiring harnesses, connectors, and sensors for corrosion or damage.
  – Swap out faulty sensors in temperature, pressure, or RPM circuits.
  – Confirm instrument cluster and alarm systems function correctly.
• Structural & cab upkeep
  – Check frame welds, bucket hinge pins, and lift arms for wear or looseness.
  – Replace worn glass, seals, door checks as needed for operator safety and comfort.
• Testing & monitoring
  – After repairs, run load tests, temperature monitoring, and hydraulic diagnostics.
  – Use logging (if available) to spot anomalies in pressure, flow, or thermal signatures.

Case Example: Auctioned 2001 873 with Issues

A 2001 873 G-Series unit was offered at auction with ~4,403 hours on it. The listing noted it had a 73 hp turbocharged diesel and hydrostatic drive. But the auction description also mentioned the air conditioning was not working, a classic wear symptom after two decades.

Given that level of use, it’s typical to expect a mix of hydraulic wear, cooling stress, rubber aging, and small control or sensor glitches—nothing extraordinary for a machine of that vintage.

Outlook and Recommendation

The 2001 Bobcat 873 remains a capable, if somewhat mature, machine for many secondary or smaller-scale jobs. It is robust enough to last many thousands of hours with disciplined service. Nevertheless, its age means that prospective owners or operators should assume major maintenance in hydraulics, cooling, and controls.