What is included in a bobcat 250-hour service?

A 250-hour bobcat service is a minor service that includes draining and replacing engine oil (typically 10W-30 or 15W-40), replacing the engine oil filter, inspecting or replacing the outer air filter, draining the fuel/water separator, checking hydraulic oil level and hose condition, checking and adjusting track tension, greasing all specified points (loader arm pins, pivots, auxiliary hydraulic coupler, idler wheels), inspecting the drive belt or chain, checking the battery and all lights, testing the horn and backup alarm, checking the seatbelt and restraint bar, inspecting the ROPS/FOPS structure, and inspecting the bucket and quick-coupler. It takes approximately 1 to 2 hours.

What oil goes in a bobcat engine?

Most bobcat and compact track loader engines use 10W-30 or 15W-40 diesel engine oil meeting CK-4 or CI-4 specifications. Typical engine oil capacity is 5-8 litres depending on the model. Some manufacturers specify different grades for extreme cold or hot conditions. Always check the service manual for your specific make, model and operating environment. Using the wrong oil grade can void the warranty and cause premature engine wear.

How do I check and adjust track tension on a bobcat?

To check track tension, lift one side of the machine by raising the loader arm on that side with the bucket on the ground. Measure the sag at the midpoint of the bottom track run between the front idler and rear sprocket. Compare the measurement to the manufacturer specification, which is typically 25-50 mm (1-2 inches) of sag depending on the model. To adjust, locate the track tension grease fitting (usually accessible through a panel on the undercarriage) and add or release grease using a grease gun until the correct sag is achieved. Over-tensioned tracks cause premature wear on sprockets, idlers and the track itself. Under-tensioned tracks can de-track during operation.

What safety regulations apply to bobcat maintenance in Australia?

Bobcats and compact track loaders are classified as mobile plant under WHS Regulations 2011, Chapter 5 (Plant and Structures), which places a duty on the PCBU to ensure the plant is inspected, maintained and repaired to remain safe for use. AS 4024 (Safety of Machinery) provides the general design and safeguarding requirements for earthmoving equipment. The ROPS/FOPS structure, restraint bar interlock and backup alarm are safety-critical systems that must be verified during every service. All maintenance records must be retained and made available during WHS audits or incident investigations. On construction sites, the machine operator must hold a relevant plant competency.

Free bobcat 250-hour service procedure

Jump to download form ↓

Enter your email below to download this bobcat 250-hour service procedure as a ready-to-use PDF.

Free bobcat 250-hour service procedure (PDF-ready). Engine oil, filters, hydraulic checks, track tension, grease points and coolant. Download free.

Jarrod Milford

Commercial Director

Updated 3 May 2026

How to use: download the PDF, print or complete digitally on any device.

✓PDF format, ready to print or fill on screen
✓Use as-is or customise to suit your operation
✓Go digital in MapTrack for photos, alerts and audit trails

See template in action →

Download free PDF template

Trusted by teams across Australia and New Zealand

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.

Preview the template

See the first part of the bobcat 250-hour service procedure below. Download the full version above.

Download to get full template →

What is a bobcat 250-hour service procedure?

A 250-hour service is the first tier of scheduled preventive maintenance for a bobcat (compact track loader). It is performed every 250 engine hours (or approximately every 4-6 weeks of full-time operation) and is classified as a minor service. The procedure covers engine oil and filter replacement, air filter inspection or replacement, fuel system maintenance (fuel/water separator drain, fuel filter check), hydraulic system checks (hydraulic oil level, hose and fitting inspection, hydraulic filter condition), coolant level and condition check, track tension adjustment and inspection, greasing of all specified grease points (loader arm pins, pivots, auxiliary hydraulic coupler, idler wheels), drive belt or chain inspection, battery and electrical system checks, and safety device testing (ROPS/FOPS structure, restraint bar, seatbelt, backup alarm). Unlike a daily pre-start check (which confirms the machine is safe to operate), the 250-hour service involves actual maintenance actions: draining and replacing fluids, replacing filters, adjusting components and measuring wear. It is typically performed by a qualified mechanic or fitter, not the operator.

Compact track loaders work in confined, dusty environments where the engine, hydraulic system and undercarriage are under constant stress. Track tension, in particular, is a critical maintenance item that directly affects track life, sprocket wear and machine stability. A documented 250-hour service record demonstrates that the machine is being maintained to manufacturer specifications and supports warranty, insurance and resale obligations.

Learn more about maintenance and work orders in MapTrack.

Benefits of using this bobcat 250-hour service procedure

Reduced breakdowns: regular oil, filter and fluid changes prevent engine and hydraulic failures that cause unplanned downtime on site.
Extended component life: clean oil and correct lubrication reduce wear on the engine, hydraulic pump, drive motors, tracks and undercarriage components.
Lower repair costs: a 250-hour service costs a fraction of an emergency breakdown repair. Catching issues early prevents cascading damage.
Track reliability: checking and adjusting track tension at regular intervals prevents premature track wear, de-tracking and undercarriage damage.
Operator safety: inspecting safety devices (ROPS/FOPS, restraint bar, seatbelt), hydraulic hoses and the backup alarm at regular intervals reduces the risk of on-site incidents.
Compliance: documented service records demonstrate that equipment is maintained to WHS standards and manufacturer specifications, supporting insurance and regulatory obligations.
Resale value: a complete service history with documented 250 and 500-hour services increases the machine's value at trade-in or auction.

Benefits of digitising forms in MapTrack

When you digitise bobcat / compact track loader service procedures in MapTrack, you get:

Field users can easily scan a QR code to complete a form on mobile. Unlimited users.
Automatically get alerts when faults are identified.
Link every form digitally as a PDF to the relevant asset, location or person.
Receive a digital PDF copy with every submission to your email.
Ability to share forms digitally.
Build conditional logic (show or hide questions based on answers).
Take pictures or attach photos. Not possible with a paper-based form.
Electronic signatures.
Edit forms later without reprinting.
Restrict permissions (who can view, complete or approve).
Build forms with AI (describe what you need and MapTrack suggests the form).
Trigger work orders automatically when a fault is logged during an inspection.
Track service intervals by hours, kilometres or calendar date in one place.
Attach supplier invoices and parts receipts to each maintenance record.

Book a demo to see how MapTrack handles bobcat / compact track loader service procedures.

Try MapTrack free for 30 days

Full access to every feature. No credit card required. Per-asset pricing so you scale as your fleet grows.

Start free trial

No credit card required
30 days free trial
Cancel anytime

What to include in a bobcat 250-hour service procedure

This bobcat 250-hour service procedure covers 9 key areas:

Engine: drain and replace engine oil (10W-30 or 15W-40 as specified), replace oil filter, inspect outer air filter element (replace if restricted), drain fuel/water separator, check fuel filter condition.
Hydraulic system: check hydraulic oil level in the sight glass, inspect hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks, chafing or damage, check hydraulic filter condition indicator.
Cooling system: check coolant level and condition, inspect radiator and oil cooler for debris, clean with compressed air if needed, check coolant hoses for cracks or swelling.
Track system: check and adjust track tension using the manufacturer specified procedure, inspect track pads for wear, check idler wheels, rollers and sprockets for wear and damage.
Lubrication: grease all specified grease points (loader arm pins and pivots, auxiliary hydraulic coupler, idler wheels) using EP2 lithium complex grease.
Drive system: inspect drive belt or chain tension and condition (model dependent), check drive motor oil level if accessible.
Electrical: check battery terminals and charge, test all lights (headlights, tail lights, work lights), test horn, backup alarm and beacon.
Safety devices: check seatbelt and restraint bar operation, inspect ROPS/FOPS structure and mounting bolts, verify all guards and covers are fitted and secure.
Bucket and attachment: inspect bucket cutting edge and teeth for wear, check quick-coupler condition and locking mechanism.

How to use this bobcat 250-hour service procedure

Park the bobcat on level ground, lower the loader arms and bucket to the ground, engage the park brake, raise the restraint bar and shut down the engine. Allow the engine to cool before draining oil.: Select a firm, flat area away from active site traffic. Lower the bucket fully to relieve hydraulic pressure. Raise the restraint bar and remove the ignition key. Allow the engine to cool for at least 10 minutes before draining oil to prevent burns and ensure complete drainage.
Record the equipment details (make, model, serial number, unit number) and current hour meter reading at the top of the service procedure form.: Capture the asset ID, make, model, serial number, unit number and current engine hour reading. Cross-reference against the previous service record to confirm the correct 250-hour interval has been reached.
Start with the engine section: drain the old engine oil, replace the oil filter, fill with new oil to the correct level, then inspect the air filter element, drain the fuel/water separator and check the fuel filter.: Use 10W-30 or 15W-40 CK-4 diesel engine oil as specified by the manufacturer. Typical capacity is 5 to 8 litres depending on the model. Fill to the full mark on the dipstick, run the engine for two minutes to prime the new filter and recheck the level. Inspect the outer air filter element and replace if the restriction indicator shows red. Drain the fuel/water separator completely.
Check the hydraulic oil level in the sight glass with the loader arms fully lowered. Inspect all hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks, chafing or damage. Check the hydraulic filter condition indicator.: Verify the hydraulic oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the sight glass. Inspect every visible hose and fitting, paying particular attention to hoses near the loader arm pivot points and undercarriage where abrasion is most common. If the filter condition indicator shows bypass, schedule filter replacement.
Check coolant level and condition. Inspect the radiator and oil cooler for debris and clean with compressed air if needed. Check coolant hoses for cracks or swelling.: Check the coolant level in the overflow tank and top up with the correct concentration (typically 50/50 ethylene glycol). Clean the radiator and oil cooler cores with low-pressure compressed air to remove dust, debris and organic material that restricts airflow. Inspect all coolant hoses for softness, cracking or swelling.
Check and adjust track tension using the manufacturer specified procedure. Inspect track pads, idler wheels, rollers and sprockets for wear and damage.: Lift one side of the machine by raising the loader arm on that side with the bucket on the ground. Measure the track sag at the midpoint between the front idler and rear sprocket. Compare against the manufacturer specification, typically 25 to 50 mm of sag. Adjust by adding or releasing grease at the track tension fitting. Inspect all track pads for cuts, missing lugs and exposed cords.
Grease all specified points: loader arm pins and pivots, auxiliary hydraulic coupler, and idler wheels. Use EP2 lithium complex grease.: Apply two to three pumps of EP2 grease at each nipple until fresh grease appears at the seal. A typical compact track loader has 10 to 16 grease points. Refer to the manufacturer grease chart to ensure every point is covered including hard-to-reach idler wheel zerks.
Check the battery terminals and charge. Test all lights, horn, backup alarm and beacon. Check the seatbelt, restraint bar, ROPS/FOPS structure and mounting bolts. Inspect the bucket and quick-coupler.: Clean battery terminals and check the charge state. Test every light circuit individually. Verify the backup alarm is audible from 15 metres. Check the restraint bar interlock prevents engine start when raised. Inspect ROPS/FOPS mounting bolts for correct torque. Check the bucket cutting edge and quick-coupler locking pins.
Start the engine and check for leaks, abnormal noises or warning lights. Check the oil pressure gauge and all instrument readings. Record any defects or recommendations in the notes section.: Run the engine for at least five minutes and operate the loader arms, bucket and auxiliary hydraulics through their full range. Track the machine forward and reverse checking for smooth, straight travel. Listen for unusual noises from the engine, hydraulic pump and drive motors. Record all findings.
Set the next service due hours (next 250-hour and next 500-hour intervals). Sign off and update the machine's maintenance log.: Calculate the next due hours by adding 250 and 500 to the current reading. Update the service sticker on the machine and record all completed tasks in the fleet maintenance system or digital asset register. Sign off the service form.

In MapTrack, you can schedule and track maintenance digitally. Each submission is stored as a timestamped PDF against the asset record.

Get the free template

Enter your email above to download the full bobcat 250-hour service procedure as a PDF.

Back to download form

How often should you complete this service procedure?

The 250-hour service should be performed every 250 engine hours, which equates to approximately every 4-6 weeks of full-time operation (assuming 8-10 hours per day, 5-6 days per week). If the machine is used less frequently, a time-based interval of every 3 months is a common guideline, whichever comes first. The 250-hour service does not replace the daily pre-start check, which must still be performed by the operator before each shift. The next tier of maintenance is the 500-hour (intermediate) service, which carries forward all 250-hour tasks and adds hydraulic filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, drive motor or chaincase oil check, fan belt adjustment, battery load test and ROPS bolt torque check. Always refer to the manufacturer service manual for the specific intervals and tasks for your make, model and operating conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in a bobcat 250-hour service?: A 250-hour bobcat service is a minor service that includes draining and replacing engine oil (typically 10W-30 or 15W-40), replacing the engine oil filter, inspecting or replacing the outer air filter, draining the fuel/water separator, checking hydraulic oil level and hose condition, checking and adjusting track tension, greasing all specified points (loader arm pins, pivots, auxiliary hydraulic coupler, idler wheels), inspecting the drive belt or chain, checking the battery and all lights, testing the horn and backup alarm, checking the seatbelt and restraint bar, inspecting the ROPS/FOPS structure, and inspecting the bucket and quick-coupler. It takes approximately 1 to 2 hours.
How often should a bobcat be serviced?: Bobcats and compact track loaders follow a tiered service schedule based on engine hours. A 250-hour (minor) service covers oil, filters, grease points, track tension and basic inspections. A 500-hour (intermediate) service adds hydraulic filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, drive motor or chaincase oil check, fan belt adjustment, battery load test and ROPS bolt torque check. Daily pre-start checks are performed by the operator before each shift. Always refer to the manufacturer service manual for your specific make and model, as intervals can vary.
What oil goes in a bobcat engine?: Most bobcat and compact track loader engines use 10W-30 or 15W-40 diesel engine oil meeting CK-4 or CI-4 specifications. Typical engine oil capacity is 5-8 litres depending on the model. Some manufacturers specify different grades for extreme cold or hot conditions. Always check the service manual for your specific make, model and operating environment. Using the wrong oil grade can void the warranty and cause premature engine wear.
How do I check and adjust track tension on a bobcat?: To check track tension, lift one side of the machine by raising the loader arm on that side with the bucket on the ground. Measure the sag at the midpoint of the bottom track run between the front idler and rear sprocket. Compare the measurement to the manufacturer specification, which is typically 25-50 mm (1-2 inches) of sag depending on the model. To adjust, locate the track tension grease fitting (usually accessible through a panel on the undercarriage) and add or release grease using a grease gun until the correct sag is achieved. Over-tensioned tracks cause premature wear on sprockets, idlers and the track itself. Under-tensioned tracks can de-track during operation.
What safety regulations apply to bobcat maintenance in Australia?: Bobcats and compact track loaders are classified as mobile plant under WHS Regulations 2011, Chapter 5 (Plant and Structures), which places a duty on the PCBU to ensure the plant is inspected, maintained and repaired to remain safe for use. AS 4024 (Safety of Machinery) provides the general design and safeguarding requirements for earthmoving equipment. The ROPS/FOPS structure, restraint bar interlock and backup alarm are safety-critical systems that must be verified during every service. All maintenance records must be retained and made available during WHS audits or incident investigations. On construction sites, the machine operator must hold a relevant plant competency.

Applicable regulatory standards

This template aligns with the following regulations and standards:

AS 4024 - Safety of Machinery (design and safeguarding requirements applicable to compact earthmoving equipment)
ISO 6165 - Earth-moving Machinery, Basic Types, Identification and Terms (classification of compact track loaders)
WHS Regulations 2011, Chapter 5 - Plant and Structures (PCBU duties for inspection and maintenance of mobile plant)

Bobcat 250-hour service procedure preview

Bobcat 250-hour service procedure template preview showing fields and layout

Need to schedule and track maintenance digitally?

Register every bobcat / compact track loader in MapTrack, attach digital forms, and get a complete history of every inspection, service and compliance record.

Start free trial Book a demo

Maintenance and work orders · All templates · Pricing · Book a demo