Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Brake Discs on a Bobcat Hydrostatic Drive Motor

Maintaining the braking system of your Bobcat skid steer loader is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety. The brake discs within the hydrostatic drive motor play a pivotal role in this system, enabling effective deceleration and control. Over time, these discs may wear out and require replacement. This comprehensive guide has step-by-step process for brake disc installation on a Bobcat hydrostatic drive motor, helping you keep your equipment in top working condition.

We also have a quick video tutorial from Bobcat demonstrating the installation process for brake discs on a hydrostatic drive motor. While this video specifically showcases the MCR6 "Flatty" assembly process, it may also be applicable to other brands and models using the same style of drive motors. However, please note that this is not the exact factory method used by Bobcat but rather a practical approach that helps address common issues, such as brake discs being slightly too big.

The drive motor style covered in this guide is an MCR-T from Rexroth, which we sometimes refer to as "Flatty" due to its flat sprocket design. There are three possible versions of this drive motor:

• MCR5T

• MCR6T

• MCR10T (the largest of the three)

Before ordering replacement parts, please verify your machine's drive motor version, as some Bobcat models may have multiple drive motor variations under the same model number. At the end of this guide, we provide a list of Bobcat models that commonly use the "Flatty" final drives. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us, and we will assist you!

Tools and Materials Needed

Before beginning the installation, gather the following tools and materials:

Tools:

• Socket wrench set

• Torque wrench

• Allen wrench set

• Pry bar

• Plastic hammer

• Seal installation tool

• Hydraulic jack or suitable lifting equipment

• Clean, lint-free cloths

Materials:

• Replacement brake discs (ensure compatibility with your specific Bobcat model)

• New seals and gaskets

• Thread-locking compound (e.g., Loctite)

• Hydraulic fluid, as specified by Bobcat

• Cleaning solvent

Safety Precautions

Safety is necessary when performing maintenance on heavy machinery. Follow these precautions:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Safety glasses to stop debris from getting into your eyes

• Gloves to protect your hands from cuts and burns from sharp edges and chemicals

• Steel-toed boots for foot protection

• A face shield if there's a risk of splashing fluids

Safety Measures:

• Park the Bobcat on a stable, level surface and engage the parking brake.

• Turn off the engine and disconnect the battery to prevent accidental startup.

• Use appropriate lifting equipment to support heavy components.

• Keep the work area clean to avoid slips and falls.

• Follow all manufacturer guidelines specific to your Bobcat model.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

1. Preparing the Bobcat for Maintenance

• Park the machine on a flat, stable surface and engage the parking brake.

• Turn off the engine and disconnect the battery.

• Lift and secure the machine using a hydraulic jack or appropriate lifting equipment.

2. Removing the Hydrostatic Drive Motor

• Locate the hydrostatic drive motor within the undercarriage.

• Carefully disconnect all hydraulic lines, plugging or capping them to prevent contamination.

• Remove the mounting bolts securing the drive motor to the frame.

• Gently slide the drive motor out from its housing, supporting its weight to prevent damage.

3. Disassembling the Drive Motor

• Place the drive motor on a clean workbench.

• Remove the cover bolts in a crisscross pattern to release tension evenly.

• Lift off the cover to expose internal components, including the brake piston and disc stack.

• Carefully extract the brake piston, noting the orientation for accurate reassembly.

4. Replacing the Brake Discs

• Remove the worn brake discs and spacers from the drive shaft.

• Inspect the drive shaft and clean all components thoroughly.

• Install the new brake discs and spacers in the correct order.

5. Reassembling the Drive Motor

• Install a new seal into the housing.

• Reinsert the brake piston, followed by the spring washer and cover.

• Secure the cover bolts, tightening them in a crisscross pattern to the manufacturer's specified torque.

6. Reinstalling the Drive Motor

• Carefully position the drive motor back into its housing.

• Align and secure the mounting bolts, applying the thread-locking compound.

• Reconnect all hydraulic lines securely to prevent leaks.

7. Final Checks and Testing

• Reconnect the battery and start the engine.

• Operate the Bobcat at low speed to test the new brake discs.

• Inspect all connections for hydraulic fluid leaks.

• Once proper operation is confirmed, lower the machine and remove any lifting equipment.

Essential Notes on Drive Motor Variations

Bobcat machines may have different drive motor versions under the same model number. The following models commonly use the "Flatty" style final drive:

• Bobcat T-series (e.g., T550, T595, T650, T770, T870, etc.)

• Some compact excavators and track loaders

If you're unsure about the correct brake discs for your machine, double-check your drive motor model before ordering parts. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us.

Final Thought

Properly maintaining and replacing the brake discs on your Bobcat hydrostatic drive motor is essential for ensuring safe and efficient operation. This step-by-step guide can help you complete the installation process, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of your equipment. Always use the correct tools, follow safety precautions, and refer to manufacturer specifications to achieve the best results. If you are looking for a Track loader orskid steer parts, check with us.

For a detailed visual guide, be sure to check out ourYouTube video. If you found this guide helpful, share your experience in the comments and stay tuned for more Bobcat maintenance tips!