repowering skid steer

timbatrader · Jun 25, 2014

olllotj said:
I think that repowering with a lighter engine could cause balance issues for a skid steer.

I think the balance issue will be a big problem I know on my Bobcat743 it is set up with no load in the bucket 70% weight on the back axle 30% front with the bucket full 70% weight on the front axle 30% back if I half full the bucket it doesn't turn very well one axle needs to skid if both are gripping it digs in makes a real mess I also have problems if I take the bucket off to put another impliment on it is so out of balance it is dangerous to drive more than a just a short distance on flat land. I think you will need to add a counter weight to get the balance

anesthes · Jun 25, 2014

timbatrader said:
I think the balance issue will be a big problem I know on my Bobcat743 it is set up with no load in the bucket 70% weight on the back axle 30% front with the bucket full 70% weight on the front axle 30% back if I half full the bucket it doesn't turn very well one axle needs to skid if both are gripping it digs in makes a real mess I also have problems if I take the bucket off to put another impliment on it is so out of balance it is dangerous to drive more than a just a short distance on flat land. I think you will need to add a counter weight to get the balance

Hello,

Yeah that could be an issue. The VH4D is what 310 lbs. The Subaru EH90 is 119lbs. When you figure the motor is mounted almost in the center of the machine, i'd probably split the difference when putting a counter weight on the back of the machine. The machine has two 100lb counter weights. I guess just add another one.

If I go with a water cooled diesel it would probably be right around 300lbs. I haven't quite picked a motor yet. I'm somewhat surprised nobody has chimed in and recommended something.

-- Joe

Groo · Jun 26, 2014

anesthes said:
I'm somewhat surprised nobody has chimed in and recommended something.

-- Joe

they did...the Wisconsin.

I bet you could get a piggyback ignition module, add an alternator, add an oil cooler and do something to improve airflow for less hassle and money that swapping out to a completely new engine.

anesthes · Jun 26, 2014

Groo said:
they did...the Wisconsin.

I bet you could get a piggyback ignition module, add an alternator, add an oil cooler and do something to improve airflow for less hassle and money that swapping out to a completely new engine.

I have an electronic ignition module. I could run an alternator off the flywheel but I'd have to move the hydraulic cooler and make up some pulleys to get the right ratio to charge. Then of course there is the issue of the alternator putting strain on the engine. I put a GM Si alternator on my Oliver 550 a couple of years ago when the generator died, and while it did charge the battery it had a noticible power impact on the 40hp inline 4.

Swapping in a new engine isn't really a big deal. 4 bolts to the bottom plate, and 4 bolts to the pump bracket. Remember it's a skid steer, so the only thing the engine drives is the hydraulic pump. Pump mounts have somewhat of a universal bolt pattern, which makes swapping engines a breeze.

What I was looking for was some advice on what alternative engine. I figured someone would chime in about a certain engine they have worked with and liked.

I did find on some other forums that folks dig the Saab inline 4 engines.

I don't want to spend a fortune, but a couple of grand on a repower for an otherwise great machine is a good investment, vs the 26 grand or so to buy a new skid steer.

-- Joe