Among all mid-frame skid steer loaders, the Bobcat 773 stands as one of the most popular and enduring models in off‑road machinery history. Compact yet powerful, it has been trusted by construction crews, farmers, and land developers for decades. In this guide, we explore the Bobcat 773 specs, common mechanical issues, maintenance habits, and how to locate reliable replacement parts using your machine’s serial number.
About Bobcat 773 Skid Steer
The 773 skid steer loader is a mid-size, vertical-lift model designed to handle high-load operations while staying stable and maneuverable on uneven ground. It’s suitable for heavy dirt work, material handling, and attachment-driven tasks common in construction, agriculture, and landscaping.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what makes it stand out:
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Compact Power:
Despite its moderate frame, the 773 uses a Kubota V2203 4-cylinder diesel engine, providing impressive torque for digging, lifting, and pushing in tight workspaces.
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High-Flow Hydraulics:
Its hydraulic system efficiently drives attachments such as trenchers, augers, or hydraulic hammers — a valuable advantage in off-road job sites requiring multiple implements.
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Vertical Lift Path:
The loader offers higher reach and lift capacity compared to radial-lift models. This allows easy truck loading and pallet stacking while maintaining load balance.
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Ease of Maintenance:
The open-frame design and centralized service points provide rapid access to filters, belts, and fluids — minimizing downtime.
Bobcat 773 Key Specifications
Engine
| Number Of Cylinders | 4 |
|---|---|
| Engine Make | Kubota |
| Engine Model | V2203-EB |
| Net Power | 46hp |
| Displacement | 134.3cu in |
Operational
| Operational Weight | 5809.2lb |
|---|---|
| Fuel Capacity | 23.1gal |
| Max Speed | 7mph |
| Tire Size | 0 – 16.5 |
Loader
| Tipping Load (Iso 14397) | 3900lb |
|---|---|
| Bucket Width | 68in |
Common Issues & Solutions
While the Bobcat skid steer is engineered for demanding fields, regular maintenance is key to avoiding common performance issues.
- Weak Lift or Arm Drift: Caused by worn hydraulic seals — replace seal kits and top off hydraulic oil.
- Overheating: Often due to radiator blockage — clean fins and check fan belt alignment.
- Difficult Cold Starts: Faulty glow plugs or airlocked fuel lines — replace plugs and bleed air after filter changes.
- Hydraulic Noise: Clogged filters or air in the system — drain, flush, and refill with clean oil.
- Linkage Wear: Lubricate lift joints every few operating hours to reduce play.
Bobcat 773 Replacement Parts Lookup
Source from: ritchiespecs.com
Maintenance Tips for Skid Steer
To keep your 773 skid steer loader running smoothly, regular maintenance is non‑negotiable. Proper scheduling reduces unplanned downtime and extends operating life.
Daily Checks
- Inspect oil level, coolant, and fuel.
- Verify tire pressure and watch for tread separation.
- Clean the radiator screen and air filter compartment.
- Check that attachments are securely locked into the coupler.
Scheduled Maintenance Chart
| Interval | Service Action |
|---|---|
| 50 hrs | Check belts, fluid leaks, and grease joints. |
| 250 hrs | Replace oil & fuel filters, check hydraulic hoses. |
| 500 hrs | Drain and replace hydraulic oil, inspect drive tension. |
| 1000 hrs | Overhaul the cooling system, inspect wheel bearings. |
Fuel & Hydraulic Care
- Use clean diesel; water or sediment lowers injector lifespan.
- Replace hydraulic filters before the color darkens — it signals oxidation.
- Run the engine 2–3 minutes at idle before working to circulate oil.
Storage Advice
If storing your loader for several months:
- Clean the entire undercarriage.
- Fill the fuel tank to reduce condensation.
- Grease all pins and bushings.
- Disconnect the battery and store it separately.
How to Identify Year by Serial Number?
Every 773 has a unique serial tag containing its manufacturing details. Decoding these numbers ensures you select the right replacement assemblies.
Example Serial Number: 509633001
- 50 → Loader model: 773 series
- 96 → Year range: Late 1990s
- 33001 → Unit’s sequential production code
Early identifiers (5096 or 5097) mark pre‑2000 builds; those beginning with 5196 usually indicate 773G versions produced between 1999 and 2002. Serial verification before ordering hydraulic or electrical parts prevents compatibility errors — especially critical when using aftermarket components.
Serial Plate Locations:
- Inside the left cab frame, next to the seat base
- Rear cross member near the engine
- Inner door label (on late models)
Conclusion
Compact, reliable, and built for demanding terrain, the 773 skid steer loader remains a trusted asset across construction and agriculture. Regular maintenance and access to top-quality Bobcat parts and skid steer parts keep this machine running productively for years. Explore premium yet affordable components from aftermarket specialists to ensure your loader stays efficient, durable, and ready for any job site challenge.
