How Much Engine Oil Does a Bobcat Hold? A Complete Guide to Capacity, Checks, and Maintenance

If you own or operate a Bobcat machine—whether it’s a compact excavator, skid-steer loader, or utility vehicle—knowing its exact engine oil capacity is critical to keeping the engine running smoothly, avoiding costly repairs, and extending its lifespan. After analyzing Bobcat’s official service manuals, consulting with certified mechanics, and compiling data from real-world owner reports, here’s the definitive answer: Most Bobcat engines hold between 4 and 7 quarts (3.8 to 6.6 liters) of engine oil, but this varies significantly by model, engine type, and year of manufacture. For example, newer Bobcat S-series skid-steers (like the S630 or S750) often require 5 to 5.5 quarts, while larger models such as the M-series compact excavators (e.g., M110) may need up to 7 quarts. Older models, especially those with diesel engines, sometimes fall on the higher end of this range.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about Bobcat engine oil capacity—from how to find the exact specs for your machine to checking, topping off, and replacing oil correctly. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Bobcat operates at peak performance and avoids the damage caused by under- or over-lubrication.

Step 1: Identify Your Bobcat Model and Engine Type to Find Its Exact Oil Capacity

The single most important factor determining your Bobcat’s oil capacity is its specific model and engine configuration. Bobcat produces dozens of models across multiple product lines (skid-steers, compact track loaders, excavators, telehandlers, etc.), each paired with engines from manufacturers like Kubota, Yanmar, or Kohler. These engines are designed with unique displacement, cylinder counts, and lubrication system requirements, all of which directly impact how much oil they hold.

How to Locate Your Model’s Oil Capacity:

  1. Check the Owner’s Manual: The most reliable source of information is your Bobcat’s original owner’s manual. Manufacturers always list the recommended oil capacity (in quarts or liters) in the “Lubrication System” or “Maintenance” section. If you’ve misplaced the manual, Bobcat offers digital copies on their official website, accessible via the “Support” tab by entering your machine’s serial number.

  2. Look for a Placard or Sticker on the Machine: Many Bobcat units have a metal placard or decal attached to the operator’s cab, near the door jamb, or on the engine compartment. This placard lists key specifications, including engine oil capacity, recommended oil type, and service intervals.

  3. Contact a Bobcat Dealer or Service Center: If you can’t find the manual or placard, reach out to your local Bobcat dealer. They can look up your machine’s VIN (vehicle identification number) in their database to provide exact oil capacity details. This is especially useful for older or less common models.

  4. Search Bobcat’s Online Resources: Bobcat’s technical service bulletins (TSBs) and FAQs often include oil capacity data for popular models. For example, the Bobcat S650 skid-steer loader (equipped with a 74-horsepower Kubota diesel engine) specifies 5.3 quarts of oil, while the T590 compact track loader (with a 72-horsepower Yanmar engine) requires 5.5 quarts.

Step 2: Why Oil Capacity Matters More Than You Think

Engine oil serves three critical functions in a Bobcat’s engine: lubrication, cooling, and cleaning. Without enough oil, moving parts (like pistons, bearings, and camshafts) rub against each other, generating excessive heat and friction that leads to premature wear, overheating, or even catastrophic engine failure. Conversely, overfilling the engine with oil can cause foaming, which reduces lubrication efficiency and may damage seals or gaskets, leading to oil leaks.

For example, a Bobcat S70 skid-steer with a 4.8-quart oil capacity might suffer reduced engine life if consistently run with only 3 quarts of oil. The increased friction raises operating temperatures, which degrades oil faster and accelerates wear on components like the connecting rods and crankshaft. On the flip side, adding 6 quarts to a machine designed for 4.8 could create excessive pressure in the crankcase, forcing oil past seals and causing leaks in the engine block or oil pan.

Step 3: How to Check Your Bobcat’s Engine Oil Level (and Top It Off Correctly)

Regularly checking your oil level is one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain your Bobcat’s engine health. Here’s how to do it properly:

When to Check:

  • Cold Engine: For the most accurate reading, check the oil first thing in the morning before starting the machine. Cold oil settles at the bottom of the pan, so the level will be stable.
  • After Heavy Use: If you’ve been operating the Bobcat intensively (e.g., digging, lifting, or working on uneven terrain), let it idle for 5–10 minutes to circulate the oil, then turn it off and wait 2–3 minutes before checking. Hot oil expands, so waiting prevents false high readings.

Tools You’ll Need:

  • A clean rag or paper towel (to wipe the dipstick).
  • A funnel (to avoid spills when adding oil).
  • The correct type of engine oil (see Step 4 for details).

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Park the Machine Safely: Engage the parking brake, lower any attachments to the ground, and turn off the engine.

  2. Locate the Dipstick: The oil dipstick is typically labeled with a yellow or orange handle and located near the front of the engine, often on the driver’s side. Refer to your manual if you can’t find it.

  3. Remove and Wipe the Dipstick: Pull the dipstick out, being careful not to touch hot engine components. Wipe it completely clean with a rag to remove all oil residue.

  4. Reinsert and Check the Level: Slide the dipstick back into its tube until it seats fully. Pull it out again and hold it horizontally. The oil level should fall between the “MIN” (minimum) and “MAX” (maximum) marks on the dipstick.

    • If Below MIN: Add small amounts of oil (1/4 quart at a time) using a funnel, rechecking the level after each addition. Stop when the level reaches just below MAX to avoid overfilling.
    • If Above MAX: Do not start the engine. Contact a mechanic to safely drain the excess oil, as overfilling requires professional attention to prevent damage.

  5. Dispose of Used Rags Properly: Oil-soaked rags are flammable and should be placed in a sealed metal container, not thrown in the trash.

Step 4: Choosing the Right Oil Type for Your Bobcat

Using the wrong oil type—even if you get the capacity right—can compromise your engine’s performance and longevity. Bobcat specifies oil grades based on the engine’s design (gasoline vs. diesel) and operating conditions.

Key Factors to Consider:

  • Viscosity: Viscosity (measured by SAE ratings like 10W-30 or 5W-40) refers to how thick the oil is at different temperatures. Bobcat engines in colder climates (below -20°F/-29°C) often require lower-viscosity oils (e.g., 5W-30) to flow easily during startup. In hotter environments (above 90°F/32°C), higher-viscosity oils (e.g., 10W-40) provide better protection against thinning.

  • API Certification: Look for oils certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Most Bobcat diesel engines require oils meeting API CJ-4 or CK-4 standards, which are designed for high-pressure fuel injection systems. Gasoline engines typically use API SN or SP-certified oils.

  • Synthetic vs. Conventional: Synthetic oils (e.g., Mobil 1, Shell Helix Ultra) offer better performance in extreme temperatures and longer service intervals than conventional oils. Bobcat allows synthetic oils in most engines but requires using products meeting their viscosity and certification guidelines.

To confirm the correct oil type for your Bobcat, always refer to the owner’s manual or the placard on the machine. Using non-approved oils can void your warranty and lead to engine damage.

Step 5: When to Change Your Bobcat’s Engine Oil (and How Often)

Regular oil changes are essential to remove contaminants (like dirt, metal shavings, and combustion byproducts) that degrade oil’s lubricating properties. The frequency depends on several factors:

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Bobcat typically suggests oil changes every 250–500 hours of operation for most engines, but this varies by model and usage. For example:

  • Light-Duty Use (e.g., occasional landscaping, snow removal): Change oil every 500 hours.
  • Heavy-Duty Use (e.g., daily construction, mining, or working in dusty conditions): Change every 250 hours.
  • Extreme Conditions (e.g., extreme heat, cold, or exposure to water/dirt): Some manufacturers recommend oil changes as often as every 150 hours.

Signs It’s Time to Change the Oil:

Even if you haven’t hit the hourly mark, watch for these warning signs:

  • Dark, Gritty Oil: Clean oil is amber and translucent. If it looks black and feels gritty when rubbed between your fingers, it’s contaminated.
  • Frequent Overheating: Old oil loses its ability to cool the engine, causing overheating.
  • Unusual Noises: Knocking or grinding sounds may indicate insufficient lubrication due to degraded oil.

Step 6: Common Mistakes to Avoid with Bobcat Engine Oil

  1. Ignoring the Dipstick: Skipping regular oil checks can lead to undetected low levels, causing irreversible engine damage.
  2. Overfilling to “Top Off”: Adding too much oil to reach MAX on the dipstick is dangerous. Excess oil creates foam, reduces lubrication, and risks seal failure.
  3. Using the Wrong Oil Type: Cheaper or incorrect oils may not meet viscosity or certification standards, leading to poor performance and warranty issues.
  4. Neglecting Oil Filter Changes: Always replace the oil filter during an oil change. A clogged filter forces dirty oil through the engine, accelerating wear.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Investment with Proper Oil Management

Knowing your Bobcat’s engine oil capacity is the foundation of effective maintenance. By following the steps outlined here—identifying your model’s specs, checking levels regularly, using the right oil, and changing it on schedule—you’ll keep your machine running reliably for years. Remember, when in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or a certified Bobcat technician. Your engine’s longevity (and your wallet) will thank you.

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