Bobcat S250 Skid Steer: Problems and Solutions and Specs

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Bobcat S250 skid steer loader specifications, covering the key technical details and performance attributes:

Bobcat S250 Specifications

General Overview

The Bobcat S250 is a mid-sized skid steer loader designed for various heavy-duty applications, including construction, landscaping, agriculture, and material handling. It offers excellent performance, high lifting capacity, and robust durability, making it a favorite among operators.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type: Kubota V3300DI-T
Engine Power: 75 HP at 2,800 RPM
Engine Displacement: 3.3 liters (3300 cm³)
Fuel Type: Diesel
Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.9 gallons (90.5 liters)

Performance

Operating Weight: 8,413 lbs (3,816 kg)
Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Tipping Load: 5,007 lbs (2,271 kg)
Lift Type: Vertical Lift Path
Travel Speed:
Standard: 6.9 mph (11.1 km/h)
Two-speed Option (if equipped): Up to 12 mph (19.3 km/h)
Hydraulic System Pressure: 3,300 psi (22,750 kPa)

Dimensions

Length (with Bucket): 11.9 feet (144 inches) / 3,660 mm
Height (to Top of Cab): 6.8 feet (81.3 inches) / 2,064 mm
Width (with Standard Tires): 6 feet (72 inches) / 1,829 mm
Wheelbase: 48.3 inches (1,227 mm)
Ground Clearance: 8 inches (203 mm)

Lift and Bucket

Bucket Width: 74 inches (1,880 mm)
Bucket Breakout Force: 5,300 lbs (2,404 kg)
Boom Breakout Force: ~4,600 lbs (2,086 kg)

Hydraulic System

Auxiliary Hydraulic Flow (Standard): 20.7 GPM (78.3 L/min)
High Flow Option (if equipped): 30.7 GPM (116.3 L/min)
Hydraulic System Pressure: 3,300 psi (22,750 kPa)

This robust hydraulic system makes the S250 compatible with a wide range of attachments — including augers, hydraulic hammers, grapples, and snowblowers.

Tires

Standard tires measure 12-16.5, but the Bobcat S250 can accommodate various aftermarket sizes depending on application requirements.

Capacity

Operating Load: 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) under standard conditions.
Tipping Load: 5,007 lbs (2,271 kg), ensuring stability and preventing tipping when limits are observed.
Maximum Lift Height (to Bucket Pivot Point): 11 feet (132 inches) / 3,350 mm

Advanced Features

Selectable Joystick Controls (SJC): Provides greater control for attachments and loader operation.
Cab Options:

Enclosed ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure) for operator safety.
Open-cab configurations available for better visibility in specific work environments.

Two-Speed Option: Enables faster travel between job sites (12 mph capability).
Vertical Lift Path: Maximizes lift height and forward reach, ideal for tasks like truck loading.

Attachments Compatible with S250

The Bobcat S250 supports a wide range of attachments for various types of work:

Buckets: General-purpose, heavy-duty, and combination buckets.
Hydraulic Attachments: Augers, grapples, hydraulic breakers, and trenchers.
Seasonal Applications: Rotary snowblowers, brush cutters, and brooms.

The high-flow hydraulic option expands the capabilities of heavy-duty attachments requiring greater hydraulic output.

Electrical System

Voltage: 12 volts
Battery: 950 CCA (cold cranking amps), ensuring reliability in cold climates.

Specifications Summary Table

Specification	Metric	Imperial
Engine Power	75 HP	75 HP
Operating Weight	3,816 kg	8,413 lbs
Rated Operating Capacity	1,134 kg	2,500 lbs
Tipping Load	2,271 kg	5,007 lbs
Aux Hydraulic Flow	78.3 L/min (Std)	20.7 GPM
High Flow Hydraulic Option	116.3 L/min	30.7 GPM
Maximum Travel Speed	19.3 km/h (with 2-Speed)	12 mph (2-Speed Option)

Price Range

The Bobcat S250 is no longer in production, but used units are readily available in the resale market. The price depends on the machine’s condition, hours of use, and included features such as high-flow hydraulics or two-speed options.

Used Price Range (2025):
Low End: $15,000-$20,000 for high-hour or basic models.
Mid Range: $20,000-$30,000 for well-maintained models.
High End: Up to $35,000+ for low-hour units or machines with advanced features.

Common Uses

The versatility of the Bobcat S250 makes it ideal for:

Construction Work: Excavating, material handling, and on-site grading.
Landscaping: Clearing brush, moving soil, or spreading gravel/mulch.
Snow Removal: Paired with snowblowers or plows for winter maintenance.
Agriculture: Feeding livestock, barn cleaning, and hauling supplies.

Advantages of the Bobcat S250

Versatility: With its robust design and compatibility with numerous attachments, it suits diverse tasks.
Powerful Engine: The 75 HP Kubota diesel provides sufficient force for demanding jobs.
Durability: Solid frame and components designed for heavy-duty use.
Ease of Maintenance: Simple access to the engine and hydraulic system for repairs.
Operator Comfort: Cab options and joystick systems improve control and reduce operator fatigue.

The Bobcat S250 remains a dependable skid steer loader, valued for its strong performance and versatility. Let me know if you need more details on pricing, parts availability, or maintenance schedules!

Bobcat S250 Skid Steer: Problems and Solutions

The Bobcat S250 is a versatile skid steer loader that has been widely used in construction, landscaping, and agricultural industries. Known for its impressive lifting capacity and reliable performance in tough working conditions, the S250 remains a preferred choice for many operators. However, as with any machine that endures heavy-duty applications, the Bobcat S250 is not without its problems. This article covers the most common issues and their solutions to help owners maximize the machine’s uptime.

1. Hydraulic System Issues

Hydraulic problems are among the most frequent complaints with the Bobcat S250. These issues are critical as the hydraulic system powers most of the machine’s functions, including lifting and operating attachments.

Common Problems:

Slow or weak hydraulic performance
Hydraulic fluid leaks
Failure of hydraulic pumps

Root Causes:

Contaminated or low hydraulic fluid
Worn or damaged hydraulic hoses and seals
Aging relief valves and pumps

Solutions:

Regular Fluid Maintenance:

Change hydraulic fluid every 500 hours or as recommended in the manual. Use Bobcat-approved hydraulic oil to ensure compatibility.
Monitor fluid levels daily and check for contamination (discoloration or debris).

Inspect Hoses and Seals:

Replace worn or damaged hoses and seals promptly to prevent leaks or system pressure loss.

Test Relief Valves:

Test hydraulic relief valves periodically to ensure hydraulic pressure remains within specifications.

Hydraulic Pump Upkeep:

Monitor the pump for unusual vibration or noise, which indicates wear. Replace the pump if it fails to maintain adequate pressure.

2. Engine Starting Problems

Many operators face issues starting the Bobcat S250’s Kubota V3300-DI-T diesel engine, especially in cold weather or after extended periods of inactivity.

Common Problems:

Failure to start or long cranking times
Intermittent starting issues
Engine stalling shortly after starting

Root Causes:

Weak or dead battery
Faulty starter motor or solenoid
Clogged or dirty fuel injectors
Cold temperatures affecting fuel and engine components

Solutions:

Battery Maintenance:

Test battery voltage and clean terminals regularly to prevent weak connections.
Replace old or failing batteries, especially before winter.

Check Starter Motor:

Inspect the starter motor and solenoid for wear or damage. Replace defective components.

Improve Fuel System Health:

Replace the fuel filter per the manufacturer’s recommendations and clean fuel injectors.
Add anti-gel additives to diesel fuel during winter to prevent gelling in the fuel lines and tank.

Glow Plug/Engine Preheat:

Make sure the glow plugs are functioning properly, as they are essential for cold starts. Replace faulty glow plugs.

3. Electrical Issues

The electrical system in the Bobcat S250 can present a range of problems, from simple wiring faults to complete system failures.

Common Problems:

Dashboard warning lights not functioning properly
Non-responsive controls
Blown fuses or circuit breakers

Root Causes:

Corroded or loose electrical connections
Faulty alternator or starter motor
Failing sensors or control modules

Solutions:

Inspect Wiring:

Check all electrical connections for looseness or corrosion. Clean and tighten where needed.

Alternator and Starter Motor:

Test the alternator and starter to ensure they are supplying adequate power. Replace failing components promptly.

Sensors and Fuses:

Conduct a diagnostic scan to identify faulty sensors or error codes. Replace malfunctioning sensors.
Replace blown fuses with manufacturer-approved ratings.

4. Cooling System Failure

The Bobcat S250’s cooling system is prone to problems, especially when working in high-temperature environments or under heavy loads for extended periods.

Common Problems:

Engine overheating
Radiator coolant leaks
Damaged fan blades or clogged radiators

Root Causes:

Insufficient coolant or coolant leaks
Clogged radiators from dirt and debris
Malfunctioning thermostats or water pumps

Solutions:

Coolant Maintenance:

Check the coolant level before every operation. Refill with the recommended coolant blend to the correct ratio.
Flush the cooling system every couple of years to remove sediment build-up.

Radiator Cleaning:

Clean dirt and debris from radiator fins regularly, especially when working in dusty conditions.
Straighten bent fins with a fin comb to maintain airflow efficiency.

Thermostat and Water Pump:

Replace malfunctioning thermostats. Ensure the water pump is functioning correctly to maintain coolant circulation.

5. Drive/Motor Problems

The Bobcat S250 relies on hydrostatic motors for movement, and problems with the drive system can reduce mobility or cause complete breakdowns.

Common Problems:

Difficulty moving or weak drive
Noisy drive motors
Uneven power delivery between the left and right wheels

Root Causes:

Worn drive belts
Contaminated or low hydrostatic oil
Damaged drive motors or gears

Solutions:

Drive Belt Inspection:

Inspect drive belts every 500 hours. Replace any that show signs of wear, such as cracks or fraying.

Hydrostatic Oil Checks:

Maintain oil levels in the hydrostatic system and change the oil every 1,000 hours or as recommended.

Rebuild or Replace Motors:

Rebuild hydrostatic motors if they produce excessive noise or lose power. Replace if necessary.

6. Lift Arm and Bucket Problems

Lift arm and bucket malfunctions can significantly reduce productivity and safety.

Common Problems:

Slow or jerky lift arm movements
Bucket tilt issues or failure to hold position
Lift arm or cylinder leaks

Root Causes:

Hydraulic cylinder wear or damage
Low hydraulic pressure
Misaligned lift arm components

Solutions:

Hydraulic Cylinder Care:

Inspect lift arm and bucket cylinders regularly for leaks. Replace worn seals or damaged rods.

Pressure Adjustment:

Measure and adjust hydraulic pressure using a pressure gauge to match manufacturer guidelines.

Realignment:

Realign or lubricate lift arm pivots and bearings to improve smoothness of operation.

7. Steering and Control Problems

Steering and control issues can cause operator frustration and reduce productivity.

Common Problems:

Difficulty steering or erratic control response
Sticking joysticks or non-functional pedals
Faulty control module

Root Causes:

Misaligned wheel hubs or damaged drive sprockets
Faulty joystick cables or worn linkages
Glitches in the control module or software

Solutions:

Joystick and Pedal Maintenance:

Lubricate joystick cables and inspect for wear or damage. Replace faulty linkages.

Software Updates:

Update the control module software to the latest version to fix programming glitches.

Drive Alignment:

Inspect the wheel hubs, sprockets, and bearings for damage. Realign the drive system for smooth steering.

8. General Wear and Tear

As a workhorse machine, the Bobcat S250 endures a lot of stress, and routine wear and tear can lead to reduced performance.

Common Problems:

Excessive tire wear
Cracks in the loader arms or bucket attachments
Frame rust or damage

Solutions:

Tire Maintenance:

Rotate tires regularly to ensure even wear. Replace worn tires before they lose traction.

Loader Arm Inspections:

Check for hairline cracks or structural weaknesses in the loader arms. Repair or weld as appropriate.

Rust Prevention:

Use anti-rust coatings on exposed metal parts to prevent corrosion, especially in wet or humid environments.

Preventive Maintenance Checklist

To avoid major problems, follow this routine maintenance schedule for the Bobcat S250:

Daily: Check hydraulic fluid, engine oil, coolant levels, and tire condition.
Weekly: Inspect hoses, belts, and electrical connections. Grease all joints and pivots.
Every 500 Hours: Replace hydraulic oil filters, clean radiators, and inspect the drive system.
Annually or Every 1,000 Hours: Change engine oil, replace the fuel filter, and perform a complete hydraulic and control system inspection.

Conclusion

The Bobcat S250 is an outstanding machine known for its reliability, but like any heavy-duty equipment, it requires diligent maintenance and proper troubleshooting to ensure peak performance. Hydraulic issues, engine starting problems, electrical faults, and cooling system challenges are some of the most common issues faced by operators. Fortunately, regular maintenance, quick repairs, and occasional upgrades can keep the S250 running efficiently for years to come.

By being proactive and staying on top of these solutions, owners can significantly reduce downtime and ensure the Bobcat S250 continues to deliver exceptional performance on any job site. Let me know if you’d like additional details on repair procedures or parts sourcing!

David Holtzman

I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.