Bobcat F series 863, bucket valve issue and need manual

[obleck]

Hello friends,

I picked up an F series Bobcat 863, SN 5144 20xxx.

It seems like a decent machine except the bucked control valves are stuck in some way. I can see the hoses load up and such, but nothing actually moves. Is there a return valve bank of sorts that's not working? I'm just starting to dive into it. Anything jump to mind as to where to start?

Also, I'm looking for a manual for the F series. I've found one for 5144 50xxx, which I suppose will be very similar, but is there a repository of these here? Can't seem to find one.

Thanks!

 

[obleck]

Update:

Got a manual. Learning about BICS and BOSS, etc.

Learning the jargon: Lift and Curl aren't working, though the hoses seem to be loading up.

I don't have the machine in hand yet, but quick suggestions on what to look for would be much appreciated.

Thx!

 

[obleck]

Update 2:

Took a good look at the hydraulic schematic and the the electrical, plus found a BICS troubleshooting chapter in the manual.

Looks like there is a solenoid activated valve in the BICS control valve block, which enables two other "lock" valves and allows the curl and lift to operate. When these valves are closed, one side of the respective hydraulic lines is closed. I suppose one could still see at least one of the hoses on each side load up and unload, even though the BICS lock valves are closed.

The lift side also has a bypass valve, which will allow the lift function despite a lock condition, but I haven't found it yet. It's a manually activated valve, I imagine near the seat somewhere. Need to find an operator's manual now I guess....

So.... either the lockout pilot valve is not working (bad solenoid, stuck, spring broken, etc), or the BICS controller is not activating it, which could be due to the seat sensor or bar sensor not working properly, and/or the "valve" indicator light not activating on the BICS box. However, the manual does not explain why that could be. Perhaps that light turns on only when it's trying to activate the solenoid valve (i.e. it's an indicator that the BICS thinks things are okay).

So anyway, I think I have a solid number of things to check, and I'm reasonably confident that I don't need to start taking the valve block apart.... fingers crossed.

 

[SSdoxie]

when you lower the seat bar it pushes down on nylon pads connected to lock linkage that will unlock (allow movement of pedals). Make sure the pedals are moving to full stroke.
With seat bar down push Press to Operate button (button might be labeled Push to Override) at upper left panel.
Look at the BICS controller indicator lights, controller is on right hand side of seat bolted to back of ROPS. All lights on controller should be on steady to operate.
If seat bar light is not on or is flashing means fault in seat bar sensor/circuit. If valve light is not on or is flashing means fault in BICS solenoid or circuit. Same for the Brake light if ground drive does not work.

The Lift By-pass valve is locked next to the Right front corner of the seat. That is to release hydraulic fluid to gravity lower the lift arm if engine stops or other type of failure.

If the button if upper left panel is labeled Traction Lock not "Push To XXXX" and BICS controller has a picture of seat and corresponding light then it does have a seat switch which can easily get debris under it and prevent contact which would prevent BICS unlocking the valve solenoid.

Look at the BICS indicator lights for troubleshooting ideas.