Is tapping normal?

[FrankValcarcel]

I just bought a used 2004 "C" model from my local Bobcat dealer - $ 16.5K with 433hrs, no A/C or doors. Up to this point I am pleased with it. My question is: when idling/driving there is a tapping noise in addition to all the normal whining, is this normal? It seems to be related to engine speed, gets louder with increased engine RPM. The noise does not sound like a "bad" noise, but neither my S185 or 334 which both have similare Kubota engines and hydraulic pumps make such a noise. The buckets curl is a lot slower that the S185, is that normal? My biggest complaint is no tool box. Has anyone figured out a good place to mount a tool box?

 

[dsb5610]

Frank,

If your machine is a 2004 model I believe it would be a 'B'. A 'B' model has an all white loader boom that appears solid with a black pivot arm that connects to the tilt mechanism ('A' models have white pivot arms). A 'C' model has a loader boom made from two separate pieces gusseted together that you can see thru where there are no gussets.

If you compare the tilt mechanism on an 'A' or 'B' to the 'C' you will see the changes Bobcat made to improve the rollback force. I don't recall the numbers but it is significant. On my 'A' I cannot dump manure in a spreader then roll back the bucket to push the manure to the other side. Not sure if this is related to the rollback slowness you are seeing or not.

I have a bedliner and there is a slot about a foot or so from the front to drop in a board. This is my toolbox. I throw in a 5 gal bucket at times for hand tools. There is no storage in the cab on mine. I do have a small nylon bag that sits between the windshield and dash that I keep safety glasses, ear protection, etc. in.

I have not noticed any tapping noises but I will start it up and listen for anything.

dsb

 

[radman1]

The B series was made from mid 2004 until early Sept. 2005. Then the C series was made until just recently. The change in boom design resulted in much better roll back with the C series from about 670 lb to 2500 lb. Now the toolcat could handle a broader range of attachments.

 

[dsb5610]

Frank,

I ran the Toolcat for a while and did not notice any tapping noise, well, other than my foot periodically.

dsb

 

[Rolando]

Frank,

Is the sound intermittent? Could it be the fan noise? I know on my 'C', when the fan comes on, you'll hear a tap,tap,tap. It's more noticable when I'm standing outside instead of in the cab, but with yours being open, it may be more noticable.

I asked the service guy about this and he said it's normal. The fan runs intermittently as heat demands.